Desserts

Luscious Baklava Delight

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Luscious Baklava Delight
Golden layers of filo pastry filled with nuts, soaked in honey syrup.

Discover the timeless allure of Baklava—a beloved Mediterranean treat that combines crunchy filo pastry with a rich blend of nuts, all enveloped in a luscious honey syrup. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, capturing the essence of Mediterranean flavors and textures.

“Baklava: A symphony of sweetness where every bite sings.”

Highlights

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Servings: 20 pieces
  • Calories: 450kcal per piece

Ingredients

For the Filling:
  • 2 cups mixed nuts (such as walnuts, pistachios, and almonds), finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Syrup:
  • 1 1/2 cups honey
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 sheets of filo pastry

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together chopped nuts, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and salt until well combined.

  2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  3. Layer Filo Pastry: Brush the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted butter. Lay one filo sheet in the dish, brushing each layer generously with melted butter before adding the next. Repeat this process until you have about 8 layers.

  4. Add Nut Filling: Evenly spread half of the nut mixture over the filo layers. Continue layering with more filo sheets, brushing each with butter, and sprinkle the remaining nuts on top. Finish with another 8-10 layers of filo, ensuring all edges are covered by overlapping as necessary.

  5. Cut Baklava: Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square pieces, making sure to press down firmly so they go through all layers.

  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

  7. Prepare Syrup: While baking, prepare the syrup by combining honey, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

  8. Assemble Baklava: Once baked, remove baklava from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the top. Let it soak in at room temperature for several hours or overnight before serving.

Nutrition

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

  • Serving: 1 piece
  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 25g (including saturated fat)
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 35g

Experience the joy of Baklava, a dessert that perfectly balances the crunchiness of filo with the sweetness of nuts and syrup. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a personal indulgence, this Mediterranean classic is sure to delight your taste buds with every bite. Serve it slightly chilled for an extra treat!

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