Homemade Baklava – A Crispy and Sweet Delight

Golden, Crispy Baklava with Honey Drizzle

Homemade Baklava Recipe

Baklava is a classic Middle Eastern dessert known for its crispy layers of phyllo dough, rich nut filling, and sweet honey syrup. It’s surprisingly easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients:

For the Baklava:

1 package (16 oz / 450g) phyllo dough, thawed

2 cups (250g) walnuts or pistachios, finely chopped

1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, melted

1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

For the Syrup:

1 cup (240ml) water

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

½ cup (170g) honey

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Nut Filling: Mix the chopped nuts with cinnamon (if using). Set aside.

3. Layer the Phyllo Dough: Place a sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat this process with 8–10 layers.

4. Add the Nuts: Sprinkle a generous layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo layers. Add 5 more layers of phyllo, brushing each with butter. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of phyllo.

5. Cut Before Baking: Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.

6. Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and crispy.

7. Make the Syrup: While the baklava is baking, heat water, sugar, and honey in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes, then add lemon juice and vanilla extract.

8. Pour the Syrup: Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm syrup over the hot baklava.

9. Let it Soak: Allow the baklava to absorb the syrup for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

Tips for the Best Baklava:

Keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.

Pour the syrup while the baklava is hot to ensure proper absorption.

Use a sharp knife for clean cuts before baking.

Enjoy your homemade baklava—a crispy, nutty, and sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

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