Description
Baklava recipe is a rich, sweet dessert made from layers of flaky filo pastry, filled with finely chopped nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey. It is widely associated with Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan cuisines, though its exact origins remain a subject of debate. Characterized by its delicate, crispy layers and the harmonious blend of syrupy sweetness with crunchy, nutty fillings, baklava is one of the most beloved desserts in the world.
This article will explore the fascinating history of baklava, discuss its regional variations, provide a detailed recipe, and touch on the health benefits, tips, and tricks for making the perfect baklava. For dessert enthusiasts and bakers alike, baklava is an irresistible dish to add to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
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- 1 package of filo dough (16 oz)
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- 2 cups mixed nuts (pistachios, walnuts, almonds)
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- 1 cup melted butter
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- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
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- 1 cup sugar
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- 1/2 cup water
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- 1/2 cup honey (optional)
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- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
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- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Nut Filling
Chop the nuts finely, either by hand or in a food processor. Mix the chopped nuts with cinnamon, cloves, and a small amount of sugar.
2. Layer the Filo Dough
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Unroll the filo dough and keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Layer eight sheets of filo dough in the dish, brushing each sheet with butter before adding the next one.
3. Add the Nut Mixture
Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the buttered filo sheets. Add another layer of filo dough, buttering each sheet. Continue alternating layers of nuts and filo until all ingredients are used.
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- For a unique variation of this process, try our Chocolate Baklava Recipe, which incorporates rich chocolate for a more indulgent version of this classic dessert.
4. Cut and Bake
Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into squares or diamonds before baking. This ensures that the syrup can soak into each piece evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
5. Make the Syrup
While the baklava bakes, combine sugar, water, honey (if using), lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
6. Add Syrup and Cool
Once the baklava is done baking, pour the hot syrup evenly over the top. Allow the baklava to cool completely so that the syrup can absorb into the layers.
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- For another syrup-soaked dessert, try our Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe, which features a caramelized layer of pineapple for a tropical twist.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Baklava is best served at room temperature, after it has had t
Notes
Baklava recipe is a timeless dessert with deep roots in the culinary traditions of the Middle East, Mediterranean, and Balkans. Its delicate layers of filo, nutty filling, and sweet syrup have captivated taste buds for centuries, making it a beloved treat for holidays, celebrations, and everyday indulgence.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: per serving
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg