Traditional Baklava – A Sweet and Nutty Delight
Baklava is a rich, sweet dessert made from layers of crispy phyllo dough, filled with a spiced nut mixture, and drenched in a honey-sugar syrup. This Middle Eastern and Mediterranean classic is perfect for special occasions and will impress guests with its flaky texture and indulgent flavors. While it might seem complex, with some patience, you can easily prepare this delightful treat at home.
Ingredients
-
For the Baklava
- 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
-
For the Syrup
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
Preheat the Oven. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Prepare the Nut Filling. In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, pistachios, cinnamon, and ground cloves. Set aside.
Layer the Phyllo Dough. Unroll the phyllo dough, covering it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. Place a sheet of dough in the greased baking pan and brush with melted butter. Repeat this process with about 10 sheets, brushing each layer with butter.
Add the Nut Mixture. Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the buttered phyllo layers.
Continue Layering. Add 5 more layers of phyllo dough, again brushing each layer with butter, followed by another sprinkling of the nut mixture. Repeat this process, ending with a final layer of 10 phyllo sheets.
Cut Before Baking. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking.
Bake. Place the baklava in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and crispy.
Prepare the Syrup. While the baklava bakes, make the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the syrup to cool slightly.
Pour Syrup Over the Baklava. Once the baklava is finished baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the syrup over the hot baklava, ensuring it seeps into every cut.
Cool and Serve. Let the baklava cool completely before serving to allow the syrup to absorb. This can take a few hours, but it’s worth the wait!
Recipe tips
Work quickly with phyllo dough and always keep it covered with a damp cloth to avoid it drying out. Toast the nuts lightly before chopping to enhance their flavor. For added flavor, you can sprinkle orange blossom water or rose water into the syrup. Let the baklava sit overnight for the flavors to meld together even better.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
There's nothing quite like the warm, gooey goodness of a classic chocolate chip cookie. These cookies are crispy on the edges, soft in the center, and loaded with rich, melted chocolate chips. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just craving a homemade treat, this recipe is sure to become your go-to. Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make these cookies perfect for bakers of all levels.
These Nutella Pastry Twists are a quick, delicious treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Made with flaky puff pastry and rich, creamy Nutella, they offer the perfect combination of crunch and sweetness. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, these twists are sure to satisfy any craving. The golden-brown pastry and decadent filling make them a hit at any time of day, and they are especially fun to make for holidays or special occasions.
A Cheese Danish is a delightful pastry that pairs a buttery, flaky crust with a smooth, creamy cheese filling. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-afternoon snack. While it may seem like a treat you'd only buy from a bakery, this recipe will show you how easy it is to make your own at home. You’ll impress your family and friends with this light, flaky pastry filled with a rich cream cheese filling.
These warm, fluffy Pumpkin Spice Muffins are packed with cozy fall flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Made with real pumpkin puree, these muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. They’re easy to prepare and bring the comforting aroma of autumn into your kitchen. Whether you're serving them for a family brunch or grabbing one on the go, these muffins will satisfy your pumpkin spice cravings.
Danish pastries are the perfect blend of soft, flaky layers and sweet, rich fillings, making them a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a special brunch or want to indulge in a homemade treat, these buttery delights are well worth the effort. The dough is folded multiple times to create the iconic flaky layers, and you can fill them with anything from sweet jam to custard or cream cheese. Serve these pastries fresh out of the oven for a warm, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
This moist and delicious Banana Nut Bread is perfect for using up overripe bananas. The soft texture, combined with crunchy nuts, creates a comforting treat that's perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. It’s easy to make, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is heavenly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this classic homemade bread that’s always a crowd-pleaser!
A Raspberry Danish is a delicate and flaky pastry with a sweet raspberry filling, perfect for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. The buttery, golden crust is topped with a simple glaze, giving it the perfect balance of sweet and tart. This homemade recipe is easy to follow and will make your kitchen smell heavenly as the pastries bake. Enjoy the fresh burst of raspberry flavor with every bite!
Flaky, buttery, and filled with sweet almond paste, Bear Claws are a classic pastry that's perfect for breakfast or a mid-day snack. These delightful pastries are made with puff pastry dough, shaped into a bear claw-like appearance, and filled with a rich almond filling. Topped with sliced almonds and a light drizzle of icing, they make for an irresistible treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
These delicious apple turnovers are perfect for when you want a warm, sweet treat. The flaky pastry filled with soft, cinnamon-spiced apples is a comfort food favorite. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just indulging yourself, these turnovers are surprisingly easy to make. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for a snack later.
Almond croissants are a decadent French pastry, perfect for breakfast or a luxurious snack. These flaky, buttery croissants are filled with a sweet almond paste and topped with toasted almonds for a delightful crunch. Whether you’re using day-old croissants or making them from scratch, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a bakery-worthy treat. Serve them warm with coffee or tea, and you’ll feel like you’re in a Parisian café.
Delightfully flaky, buttery, and with a rich cream cheese filling, these Cream Cheese Pastry Squares are a perfect treat. This easy-to-make dessert combines the simplicity of puff pastry with the creamy sweetness of a cheesecake-like center, all topped with a hint of cinnamon sugar for added flavor. Perfect for brunch, snack time, or dessert, these pastries will disappear in no time.
Delight your friends and family with these light, airy cream puffs filled with rich vanilla pastry cream. Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply craving something sweet, these cream puffs will hit the spot. They’re surprisingly simple to make and will impress with their elegant presentation. The delicate choux pastry forms a crisp shell that’s filled with creamy custard or whipped cream. Once you learn the basics, you can experiment with different fillings or toppings.
These Mini Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a fun, delicious meal, these bite-sized burgers will satisfy any craving. Customize them with your favorite toppings, and enjoy these tasty little treats in no time!
Spaghetti Bolognese is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner. This Italian classic combines tender ground beef with tomatoes, onions, and herbs, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti. It’s an easy recipe that you can tweak to your taste, making it ideal for a homemade meal. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Bolognese sauce will be a hit.
Tortilla Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico to your kitchen. This soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic spices, all topped with crispy tortilla strips. It’s a hearty, warming meal that’s perfect for any time you need a little comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a starter for a Mexican-themed feast, this soup is sure to please. With its combination of rich flavors and crunchy textures, Tortilla Soup is a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.
Wonton Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish filled with savory pork and shrimp wontons swimming in a light, clear broth. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Asian cuisine or wants to recreate a restaurant favorite at home. Making wontons from scratch may seem a bit tricky, but the process is quite straightforward. With tender dumplings and a tasty broth, this soup is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
This Roasted Vegetable Salad is a delightful medley of vibrant, oven-roasted veggies tossed with a light vinaigrette. It's hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor. The natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables, combined with the crunch of fresh greens and a zesty dressing, makes it the perfect side dish or light meal. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this salad is sure to impress with its simplicity and rich, roasted flavors.
Steak Frites is a classic French dish that pairs perfectly seared steak with crispy, golden fries. It's a simple yet elegant meal, often found in French bistros. The tender, juicy steak contrasts beautifully with the crunchy fries, all brought together by a side of béarnaise or garlic butter. This recipe will guide you through preparing this beloved dish at home, giving you a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
Bacon wrapped dates are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. These delightful bites are made by wrapping tender, sweet dates with crispy bacon, creating a snack that's ideal for parties, gatherings, or even a quick appetizer. The contrast between the chewy dates and the crispy bacon makes each bite irresistible. Whether you're hosting a get-together or just want a quick treat, bacon wrapped dates are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Fattoush is a vibrant and refreshing Middle Eastern salad that's perfect for any time of the day. The combination of fresh vegetables, crispy pita bread, and a zesty sumac dressing makes it a delightful and healthy dish. This salad is not only full of flavor but also a great way to use up leftover pita bread. It's quick to prepare, and the balance of textures—crunchy and fresh—makes it a favorite for a light meal or side dish.
If you're craving a comforting, home-cooked meal, these juicy and flavorful meatballs are the perfect solution. They are easy to prepare, versatile, and can be served with a variety of dishes, such as spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or even as a filling in a sandwich. This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys cooking their own meals, offering a blend of savory spices and tender meat. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you'll find these meatballs easy to make and absolutely delicious.
These classic vanilla cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and have a rich vanilla flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. With a buttery base and light texture, they are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Topped with your favorite frosting, these cupcakes are a hit at parties, family gatherings, or as a simple treat. Easy to make and wonderfully versatile, this recipe is a staple for cupcake lovers.
This gluten-free gravy is the perfect addition to your holiday meals or everyday dinners. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it offers all the flavor of traditional gravy without the gluten. This rich and savory gravy pairs beautifully with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, making it a versatile option for your favorite dishes. Plus, it's easy to make, so you’ll have a delicious gravy in no time!
The iconic New York Cheesecake is a creamy, dense, and rich dessert that satisfies with every bite. This version has a smooth, velvety texture thanks to cream cheese and sour cream, with a slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a timeless recipe that makes for an impressive treat at any gathering or holiday.
Onion gravy is a delicious and savory addition to any meal, especially with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or Yorkshire pudding. This rich and flavorful gravy is made by slowly caramelizing onions until golden brown, then simmering them in a broth base to bring out their sweetness. It's a comforting classic that’s easy to make and adds a depth of flavor to your dishes. Whether for a Sunday roast or a holiday dinner, this onion gravy will elevate your meal with minimal effort.
Hamburger soup is a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and savory broth, this soup is easy to make and full of rich flavors. It’s a satisfying dish that can be made in one pot, ideal for busy weeknights or a simple family dinner. You’ll love how wholesome and filling this soup is, while still being nutritious and versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies.
Cheesecake bars are a deliciously creamy, sweet treat that's easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, rich cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth. They are ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a snack, a dessert for family gatherings, or a sweet addition to holiday celebrations.
This creamy and comforting Fish Chowder is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. Loaded with tender chunks of fish, hearty potatoes, and rich, flavorful broth, it's a satisfying dish that’s both simple to make and packed with nutrients. This chowder can be made with any white fish like cod, haddock, or halibut, and is great for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal.
Egg rolls are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. These crispy, golden-brown rolls are filled with a savory mix of vegetables and meat, wrapped in a delicate egg roll wrapper. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or a family dinner, egg rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make at home, so you can enjoy them fresh and hot right from your kitchen.
Jalapeño poppers are a classic snack with a delightful combination of spicy, creamy, and crispy textures. These bite-sized treats are made by stuffing fresh jalapeños with a rich mixture of cream cheese and cheddar, then wrapping them in smoky bacon. The jalapeños are baked until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is melted to perfection. This recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun appetizer at home.
These crispy homemade onion rings are a delightfully crunchy snack or side dish that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re serving them with a burger, enjoying them as a snack, or sharing them at a gathering, these onion rings are sure to be a hit. With a light, golden batter coating each ring, they have the perfect crunch on the outside and a sweet, tender onion on the inside. They’re simple enough for a quick treat but tasty enough to impress your guests.
Shrimp tacos are an easy, flavorful, and quick meal that delivers a burst of fresh ingredients with every bite. Tender, seasoned shrimp tucked into soft tortillas and topped with a zesty slaw and creamy sauce create a perfect balance of spice, crunch, and coolness. This recipe is great for taco nights, or anytime you're craving a healthy yet indulgent meal.