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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Nut Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and granulated sugar. Mix everything together until evenly combined. This will be the delicious filling for your baklava.
2. Prepare the Phyllo Dough:
Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out. You will be working with one sheet at a time, so keep the rest covered.
Brush the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with some of the melted butter. Place the first sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush it with butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet of phyllo dough, until you have about 8 sheets layered at the bottom of the dish.
3. Add the Walnut Filling:
Once the first 8 layers are in place, evenly spread a generous portion of the walnut mixture over the phyllo dough. Be sure to distribute the nuts evenly so that every bite of baklava is flavorful.
4. Layer the Phyllo Dough:
Top the walnut filling with another 4-5 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you go. Add another layer of the walnut mixture and repeat the layering process until all the walnuts are used up. Finish with the final layer of 8 sheets of phyllo dough, buttering each sheet.
5. Cut the Baklava:
Before baking, use a sharp knife to cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. Cutting before baking will make it easier to slice once it’s finished and will ensure that the syrup can soak into all the layers.
6. Bake the Baklava:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the baklava for about 40-45 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and the phyllo dough is crispy and flaky. Keep an eye on the baklava during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
7. Make the Syrup:
While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, honey, and lemon peel (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Remove the lemon peel, if used, and stir in the vanilla extract. Set the syrup aside to cool.
8. Pour the Syrup Over the Baklava:
Once the baklava is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava. The syrup will soak into the layers, making them wonderfully sweet and sticky. Let the baklava cool in the pan for a few hours, or ideally overnight, so the syrup can fully absorb and the flavors can develop.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the baklava has cooled and the syrup has soaked in, it’s time to serve! Use a sharp knife to cut along the pre-scored lines and enjoy the deliciously flaky, nutty, and sweet dessert. Baklava is best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
Tips for Perfect Walnut Baklava:
- Don’t Skip the Butter: Buttering each sheet of phyllo dough is key to getting that flaky, buttery texture. Don’t rush this step—each sheet needs to be properly coated for the best result.
- Use Fresh Phyllo Dough: Ensure your phyllo dough is fresh and properly thawed before you begin. Dry or brittle phyllo will result in a less crispy texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the baklava to cool and rest for a few hours or overnight before serving. This gives the syrup time to soak in and lets the flavors meld together.
- Customize the Nuts: While walnuts are the traditional choice for baklava, you can use pistachios, almonds, or a combination of nuts depending on your preferences. Each nut brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
- Make Ahead: Baklava can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for several days. In fact, it often tastes better the next day, as the syrup has time to soak into the layers fully.
Why Walnut Baklava Is a Timeless Favorite:
Walnut Baklava is a dessert that blends simplicity with elegance. The layers of buttery phyllo dough, the crunchy nut filling, and the fragrant honey syrup come together to create a treat that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration, a special gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, baklava is always a crowd-pleaser.
The beauty of this recipe is in its balance. The slight bitterness of the walnuts, the sweetness of the syrup, and the buttery flakiness of the dough all harmonize in perfect proportion, offering a bite of pure delight with every piece. This is a dessert that carries with it a rich history, and with this recipe, you can bring a taste of tradition into your home.
Final Thoughts:
Walnut Baklava is a dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you’re new to making baklava or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. It’s a versatile treat that can be customized to your liking and is perfect for any occasion. Once you’ve tried this homemade version, you’ll never look at store-bought baklava the same way again. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your kitchen, and get ready to enjoy this sweet and nutty classic!
