Baklava

Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. This classic Middle Eastern dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself. Below is a detailed recipe that includes preparation time, cooking time, and nutritional information.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 24 pieces
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Ingredients

For the Baklava:

• 1 package (16 oz) of filo dough (thawed)
• 2 cups walnuts (finely chopped)
• 1 cup almonds (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Syrup:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Nut Filling

1. Mix Nuts and Spices: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, almonds, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filo Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with some of the melted butter.
3. Layer the Filo Dough: Carefully unroll the filo dough. Place one sheet in the greased baking dish and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering 8 sheets of filo dough, brushing each layer with butter.

Step 3: Add the Nut Filling

1. Spread the Nut Mixture: Evenly sprinkle a portion of the nut mixture over the layered filo (about 1/3 of the mixture).
2. Continue Layering: Add 4 more sheets of filo dough, brushing each with butter, and then add another layer of nuts. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with 8 sheets of buttered filo on top.

Step 4: Cut the Baklava

1. Cut into Diamonds: Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond shapes or squares. Make sure to cut through all layers of filo.

Step 5: Bake the Baklava

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.

Step 6: Prepare the Syrup

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 7: Add Syrup to Baklava

1. Pour Syrup Over Baklava: Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Allow it to soak in for several hours or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 8: Serve

1. Cool and Cut: Allow the baklava to cool completely before serving. Cut along the previously made lines and serve at room temperature.

Tips for Perfect Baklava

• Handling Filo Dough: Keep the filo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
• Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts such as pistachios or pecans for a unique flavor.
• Storage: Baklava can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 4g

Enjoy your homemade baklava! This delightful dessert is sure to impress your family and friends with its flaky texture and sweet, nutty flavor. Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat anytime