Golden Layers of Delight: Traditional Baklava Recipe”

Golden Layers of Delight: Traditional Baklava Recipe”

Ingredients:

• Phyllo Dough: 1 package (about 40 sheets)
• Nuts: 2 cups finely chopped (walnuts, pistachios, or a mix)
• Butter: 1 cup melted
• Sugar: 1/2 cup
• Cinnamon: 1 tsp
• For the Syrup:
  • Water: 1 cup
  • Sugar: 1 cup
  • Honey: 1/2 cup
  • Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp
  • Cinnamon Stick: 1

Instructions:

Preparing the Nut Mixture:

1. Mix the Nuts: Combine the finely chopped nuts with sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. This adds flavor deep inside the layers.

Assembling the Baklava:

2. Prep the Phyllo: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Brush with melted butter. Repeat this step to layer 8 sheets, with butter between each.
3. Add Nut Layer: Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the top.
4. Layer More Phyllo: Add 5 more phyllo sheets, buttering each sheet, then more nuts. Repeat until all nuts are used, finishing with about 10 layers of phyllo on top.

Baking:

5. Cut Before Baking: With a sharp knife, cut the unbaked layers into diamonds or squares.
6. Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes or until golden and crisp.

Making the Syrup:

7. Combine Ingredients: While baklava is baking, cook water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly.
8. Cool Syrup: Remove from heat and let cool. Remove the cinnamon stick.

Final Steps:

9. Pour Over Hot Baklava: As soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
10. Let Soak: Allow the baklava to fully absorb the syrup and set before serving, at least 4 hours or overnight.

Conclusion:

Baklava is a labor of love that promises to deliver richness and sweetness in every bite. Serve it as a celebratory dessert or treat yourself anytime to its delightful layers of flavor and texture. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!