Description
A classic Middle Eastern baklava made with crisp layers of phyllo pastry, a rich walnut and pistachio filling, and sweet honey syrup. Each bite is flaky, nutty, and perfectly sweet.
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo dough (about 16 oz), thawed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup honey
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for syrup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, pistachios, 1/2 cup sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.
- Unroll the phyllo dough and keep it covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Place one sheet of phyllo in the baking dish and brush lightly with melted butter. Repeat layering and buttering for about 8 sheets.
- Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo.
- Add 2 more buttered phyllo sheets, then another layer of the nut mixture. Repeat this process until the nuts are used, finishing with 6–8 buttered phyllo sheets on top.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- While the baklava bakes, make the syrup by combining water, 3/4 cup sugar, honey, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract and remove from heat.
- Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot pastry.
- Allow the baklava to cool completely so the syrup soaks into the layers before serving.
Notes
- Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
- Let the baklava rest several hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Serve with extra crushed pistachios sprinkled on top for garnish.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
