Cakes

Baklava Delight

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Baklava Delight
Delicate layers of phyllo pastry filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup, representing the essence of Syrian baklava.

Indulge in the aromatic allure of Syrian baklava, a pastry masterpiece that has charmed taste buds across generations. This Baklava Delight combines crispy layers of phyllo with a rich nut filling, all sweetened to perfection with honey or syrup. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience wrapped in tradition and flavor.

“Baklava is the sweet symphony of the Middle East, where every layer sings a story of culture and craft.”

Highlights

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours (including cooling)
  • Servings: 24 pieces
  • Calories: 400kcal per piece

Ingredients

For the Nut Filling:
  • 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, and almonds), chopped
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Syrup:
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup honey or maple syrup
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon rosewater (optional)
For Assembling:
  • 16 sheets phyllo pastry, thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Nut Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped nuts with sugar and cinnamon. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

  2. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan and set aside.

  3. Assemble the Baklava Layers:

  • Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry in the bottom of the prepared pan, brushing it lightly with melted butter.
  • Repeat this process until you have used 8 sheets, ensuring each layer is well-buttered.
  • Sprinkle a thin layer (about 1/3 cup) of the nut mixture over the top sheet.
  • Continue by placing another 8 sheets of phyllo pastry on top of the nuts, buttering each sheet as you go.
  • Finish with a final layer of 8 sheets, brushing the last sheet thoroughly with melted butter.

  1. Cut and Bake: Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking. This will make serving easier once it’s baked. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.

  2. Prepare the Syrup:

  • While the baklava is baking, combine water, honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and rosewater in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

  1. Syrup Application: Once the baklava is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup evenly over the top. Allow it to soak in completely.

  2. Cooling: Let the baklava cool at room temperature before cutting along the scored lines for serving.

Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for this recipe, keep in mind that it may vary based on ingredients selected.

  • Calories: 400kcal per piece
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 30g
  • Protein: 6g

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.

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