This traditional Baklava is a rich, sweet dessert made of layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey syrup. A treat that will transport you to the Mediterranean!
Ingredients:
With these ingredients, you'll create a dessert that exudes luxury and decadence. Gather them and embark on a journey of sweet perfection:
- 1 package of filo pastry, thawed
- The delicate layers that create the perfect crunch. - 2 cups finely chopped nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or a mix)
- Nutty goodness that adds richness and texture. - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A spice that brings warmth and comfort. - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- The golden liquid that binds and flavors each layer. - 1 cup granulated sugar
- Sweetness that balances the nuttiness perfectly. - 1 cup water
- The base of our luscious syrup. - 1/2 cup honey
- Nature’s nectar, adding depth and sweetness. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A hint of fragrant vanilla that elevates the flavor. - 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- A touch of spice that adds an aromatic kick. - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- A sprinkle of nutmeg for a gentle, warm spice.
Instructions:
Create this indulgent dessert by following these simple, yet rewarding steps:
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Prepare the Nut Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped nuts and cinnamon. Set aside.
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Layer the Filo Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Place one sheet of filo in the dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat with 7 more sheets, brushing each with butter before adding the next.
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Add the Nut Mixture:
- Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the buttered filo layers.
- Continue layering filo and nuts, brushing each layer with butter, until all the nuts are used.
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Finish the Layers:
- Finish with about 6-8 layers of filo, brushing each with butter, just as you started.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes all the way to the bottom of the dish.
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Bake the Baklava:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, until the baklava is golden and crisp.
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Prepare the Syrup:
- While the baklava is baking, combine the sugar, water, honey, vanilla extract, cloves, and nutmeg in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
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Finish the Baklava:
- Remove the cloves from the syrup and immediately pour the hot syrup over the hot baklava, making sure to get it into all the cuts and edges.
- Let the baklava cool completely before serving.
Review:
"This baklava is absolutely divine! The filo pastry is perfectly crispy, and the combination of nuts and honey syrup is heavenly. It's a labor of love that's worth every minute. My family loved it!" - Delighted Baker