If you’re looking for a delicious dessert that combines flaky pastry with nuts and syrup, look no further than Grecian Baklava. This mouthwatering treat is perfect for special occasions or simply to enjoy with your afternoon coffee. Crafted with layers of pastry, a mix of chopped nuts, and a sweet syrup, baklava is a delight that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Grecian Baklava
This traditional dessert features a rich filling of nuts and spices, all encased in layers of golden pastry. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 2 cups pecans, finely chopped
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the chopped walnuts and pecans with cinnamon and set aside.
- Take the phyllo dough and layer about 10 sheets in the bottom of a greased baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter. This will create a flaky base for your baklava.
- Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo. Continue layering with another 5 sheets of phyllo, brushing each with butter, followed by more nut mixture. Repeat this process until all the nuts are used, finishing with a top layer of about 10 sheets of phyllo, each brushed with butter.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until golden brown. While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup by combining sugar, water, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Once the baklava is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over the top. Allow it to soak in and cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy the beautifully layered, sweet, and nutty goodness of your homemade Grecian Baklava!
This Grecian Baklava recipe is a splendid way to impress your friends and family. With its rich layers and sweet syrup, it’s a treat that’s hard to resist. Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh!