Baklava Recipe

Baklava is a rich, flaky, and sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and a fragrant honey syrup. It is a traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dessert enjoyed on Eid and special occasions.

Mar 24, 2025 - 15:20
5
Baklava Recipe
Prep Time 30 min
Cook Time 50 min
Serving 10
Difficulty Easy

Ingredients

  • 1 package phyllo dough (about 16 oz, thawed if frozen)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or almonds, finely chopped)
  • 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or almonds, finely chopped)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ¾ cup honey
  • ¾ cup water
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional)

Directions

Step 1

  1. In a bowl, mix chopped nuts and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 2

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with melted butter.

  3. Cut the phyllo sheets to fit the baking dish (if necessary). Cover them with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

Step 3

  1. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush with melted butter.

  2. Repeat, layering 6-8 sheets and brushing each layer with butter.

  3. Sprinkle ⅓ of the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo.

  4. Add another 6-8 buttered layers of phyllo, then another ⅓ of the nuts.

  5. Repeat the process for the final nut layer, topping with 8-10 buttered phyllo sheets.

  6. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square pieces before baking.

Step 4

  1. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5

  1. While the baklava is baking, combine sugar, honey, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan.

  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and rose water (if using).

Step 6

  1. Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm syrup over it.

  2. Let it soak for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.