Baklava Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

Before diving into the tale of baklava, let’s talk about the fabulous world of pairings. Baklava, with its flaky layers and nutty sweetness, can be enjoyed with various accompaniments. A cup of strong, black Turkish coffee—just the right kick to balance the sweetness.

For tea lovers, a delicate green tea or fragrant chai adds a lovely contrast. You might also consider serving it with a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess perfectly offsets the pastry's warmth. 

And if you want to go all out, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the experience even more.

What is Baklava?

Baklava is a pastry derived from layers of thin phyllo dough. It is filled with chopped nuts, usually walnuts, pistachios, or almonds, and sweetened with honey or syrup. Originating from the Ottoman Empire, this dish has traveled the world.

It has adapted to local tastes, making each version unique. In Greece, you might find baklava drizzled with syrup. In Turkey, it could be served with a dusting of pistachios.

The history of baklava is rich, filled with tales of kings and cuisine blending over centuries. It has been a festive centerpiece for Turkish holidays and an everyday treat for many. 

The name "baklava" is believed to derive from the Turkish word "bakla," meaning to wrap, which is quite fitting considering how it is made.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Baklava is more than just sweet; it combines several flavor dimensions. The buttery phyllo offers a rich base, while the nuts introduce a crunchy texture and a nuanced earthiness. 

Honey adds a deep, floral sweetness, and warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom create a cozy finish. Each ingredient complements the others; together, they form a harmony of sweet, nutty, and fragrant notes. 

When baked, the pastry becomes golden, crisp on the outside while remaining soft and indulgently layered inside.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Baklava?

While there are various baklava recipes out there, my version packs a punch of flavor and texture. Many baklava recipes stick to traditional fillings, but I like to jazz it up a bit with a sprinkle of cardamom for warmth and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the overall profile. 

Plus, using dark chocolate as a drizzle adds an unexpected twist that balances the sweetness perfectly. With this recipe, you get a unique experience while still celebrating the classic elements of this iconic treat.

Ingredients You'll Need

To create this delicious baklava, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 lb finely chopped walnuts
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 cup wildflower honey
• 3/4 cup water
• 6 oz phyllo pastry sheets, thawed according to package directions
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• Melted dark chocolate chips & extra chopped walnuts for garnish

Step by Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Phyllo Dough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, take your phyllo pastry sheets out of the package and gently unfold them, being careful not to let them dry out. Cover them with a damp kitchen towel. This keeps them moist and pliable.

Step 2: Make the Nut Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix well to ensure the spices coat the nuts evenly. This blend is the heart of your baklava, so give it a good stir.

Step 3: Butter the Baking Dish

Take a 9x13 inch baking dish and brush it generously with melted butter. This step is critical, as it ensures each layer of phyllo will be deliciously crisp and flaky.

Step 4: Layer the Phyllo

Place one sheet of phyllo in the prepared baking dish. Brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process with six more sheets. This creates a sturdy base for your filling.

Step 5: Add the Nut Filling

After layering seven sheets, sprinkle about half of your nut mixture over the phyllo. Press it down slightly. This step helps to keep everything together as you build your baklava.

Step 6: Repeat the Phyllo Layering

Now, layer seven more sheets of phyllo on top of the nut mixture, brushing each one with melted butter. Finish with the remaining nut mixture, pressing it down again.

Step 7: Final Layering

Once you finish with the nuts, stack another seven layers of buttered phyllo dough on top. Make sure your last few sheets are well-coated with butter. This ensures a golden crust.

Step 8: Cut the Baklava

Before baking, it’s essential to cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes with a sharp knife. This allows the syrup to soak in later and helps with serving.

Step 9: Bake

Place the baklava in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid over-browning.

Step 10: Make the Syrup

While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. The syrup should thicken slightly.

Step 11: Pour Syrup Over the Baklava

Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the hot syrup over it while it’s still hot. This step is key for moist baklava. Let it cool completely before garnishing.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with extra chopped walnuts. Now it’s ready to enjoy!

Tips On Making Baklava

• Handle Phyllo with Care: Keep the sheets covered to prevent them from drying out. They can become brittle quickly.
  
• Use Quality Nuts: Freshly chopped walnuts or pistachios enhance the flavor. Avoid stale nuts for the best experience.
  
• Don’t Rush the Buttering: Apply melted butter generously in between layers. It’s crucial for achieving that crave-worthy flaky texture.
  
• Allow to Rest: Let the baklava sit in the syrup for a few hours or overnight before serving. This gives it the chance to soak up all the delicious flavors.
  
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding other spices like nutmeg or even a splash of orange blossom water for a twist.
  

How Can I Store This Baklava?

Baklava can be stored at room temperature or in the fridge. Cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out. Properly stored, it should last for about a week. For best taste, eat it within the first few days.

Alternative Ingredient Options

If you find yourself low on some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are alternatives you can consider:

• Phyllo Dough: Puff pastry can be used as a substitute if you have it on hand. It won’t be the same, but it’ll still be delicious.
  
• Nuts: If walnuts aren’t available, almonds or pistachios work just as well. Each nut brings its unique flavor to the dish.
  
• Butter: For a healthier alternative, you can use coconut oil instead of butter. It lends a slight tropical note that can be quite nice.
  
• Honey: If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup can replace honey. It’s less sticky but adds a lovely sweetness.
  

Conclusion

Baklava is a timeless dessert that deserves a spot on your table. This recipe combines tradition with a dash of creativity, allowing you to enjoy a piece of cultural history. Whether you savor it with coffee or indulge in a slice after dinner, baklava offers warmth and comfort.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients and create something special. Your taste buds will thank you, and your friends will be impressed. 

And remember, every slice brings you closer to the heart of its story. Happy baking!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

• Strawberry Pretzel Squares Copycat Recipe
• Red Velvet Cupcakes Cream Cheese Frosting
• Best Ambrosia Salad Recipe