How to Make the Perfect Baklava with Honey Syrup

How to Make the Perfect Baklava with Honey Syrup

Baklava is a rich, flaky, and sweet dessert made of layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and a luscious honey syrup. This Middle Eastern and Mediterranean treat is beloved for its crispy texture and irresistible sweetness. Below is a step-by-step guide to making the perfect baklava with honey syrup at home.

Ingredients

For the Baklava:

• 1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
• 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
• 1 cup almonds, finely chopped
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

For the Honey Syrup:

• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 whole cloves

Step 1: Prepare the Nut Mixture

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, pistachios, and almonds.
2. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and ground cloves. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some melted butter.
3. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut it to fit the baking dish if necessary. Keep it covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

Step 3: Assemble the Baklava

1. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process for 8-10 layers.
2. Spread 1/3 of the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo.
3. Add another 5 layers of phyllo, buttering each layer.
4. Add another 1/3 of the nut mixture and repeat the process.
5. Continue layering phyllo and nuts until you finish with 8-10 layers of phyllo on top.
6. Brush the final layer generously with butter.

Step 4: Cut and Bake

1. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Make the Honey Syrup

1. While the baklava is baking, combine the honey, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and cloves in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the syrup cool slightly.

Step 6: Syrup the Baklava

1. Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm honey syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
2. Let it sit for at least 4-6 hours (or overnight) to fully absorb the syrup.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with crushed pistachios for an extra touch of elegance.
• Serve at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.

Enjoy your homemade baklava with honey syrup—crispy, nutty, and perfectly sweet!