The Ultimate Baklava Recipe
Baklava has always been a dessert that holds a special place in my heart. Its layers of flaky phyllo dough, rich nuts, and sweet honey syrup create a combination that’s nothing short of magical. This recipe takes a classic Middle Eastern dessert and turns it into the ultimate treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from holidays to casual gatherings.
In our home, making baklava is more than just cooking—it’s a family tradition. The kids help layer the dough, while I prepare the syrup, and the whole house fills with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and toasted nuts. The best part? Watching everyone savor each sweet, crunchy bite!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use store-bought phyllo dough?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought phyllo dough saves time and works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it properly before use.
Q: What nuts work best in baklava?
A: Traditionally, baklava is made with walnuts and pistachios, but you can use almonds, pecans, or even a mix of your favorites.
Q: How do I prevent the phyllo dough from drying out?
A: Cover the unused phyllo sheets with a damp kitchen towel while assembling the baklava. This keeps them from drying and cracking.
Q: How long does baklava stay fresh?
A: Baklava can stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. The syrup helps preserve its texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make baklava ahead of time?
A: Yes! Baklava tastes even better the next day as the syrup fully soaks into the layers, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert.
What You Need to Make Baklava
Ingredients
For the Baklava:
- 1 lb phyllo dough, thawed
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife
- Small saucepan
How to Make the Ultimate Baklava
- Prepare the Nut Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the walnuts, pistachios, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside. - Assemble the Baklava
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush it with butter. Repeat this process with 8–10 sheets of phyllo, brushing each layer with butter.Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo. Add another 5–6 layers of phyllo, brushing each with butter. Repeat the process, alternating nut mixture and phyllo layers, until all the nuts are used. Finish with 8–10 layers of phyllo on top. - Cut and Bake
Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp. - Make the Syrup
While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and let the syrup cool slightly. - Add the Syrup
As soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, pour the syrup evenly over the hot pastry. Allow it to soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Baklava
- Be Generous with Butter: The butter between each phyllo layer is what gives baklava its signature flaky texture. Don’t skimp!
- Cut Before Baking: Cutting the baklava before baking ensures it stays neat and doesn’t crumble.
- Patience Pays Off: Letting the baklava soak in the syrup overnight enhances its flavor and makes it irresistibly moist.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was my first time making baklava, and it turned out beautifully! The syrup was perfectly balanced.” – Elena
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So flaky and delicious! My family couldn’t stop eating it.” – Mark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The mix of pistachios and walnuts was perfect. This recipe is a keeper!” – Sarah
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I made this for a dinner party, and everyone thought it was from a bakery!” – Maya
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The step-by-step instructions made this so easy to follow. Thank you!” – Brian
Printable Recipe
The Ultimate Baklava Recipe
Crispy, flaky, and drenched in honey syrup, this ultimate baklava recipe combines layers of phyllo dough with a nutty filling for a truly indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 lb phyllo dough, thawed
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- For the Syrup:
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
Prepare the Nut Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the walnuts, pistachios, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Assemble the Baklava
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the bottom and sides of a 9x13-inch baking dish with melted butter.Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush it with butter. Repeat this process with 8–10 sheets of phyllo, brushing each layer with butter.Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo. Add another 5–6 layers of phyllo, brushing each with butter. Repeat the process, alternating nut mixture and phyllo layers, until all the nuts are used. Finish with 8–10 layers of phyllo on top.
Cut and Bake
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.
Make the Syrup
- While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and let the syrup cool slightly.
Add the Syrup
- As soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, pour the syrup evenly over the hot pastry. Allow it to soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the best flavor and texture.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If this baklava recipe brought a touch of sweetness to your day, share it with your friends and family! Post a photo on social media, tag us, and let others know how much you loved it. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, baklava is a dessert worth sharing.
