Christmas Baklava
Christmas is celebrated around the world, and it’s the perfect time to plan the best holiday gatherings for friends and family. Baklava, a beloved and renowned dessert worldwide, is a festive treat that embodies the spirit of the holidays. While I’ve tried many recipes like pies and cakes, Baklava has truly captured the hearts of my Christmas parties.
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This delectable dessert is a hit with everyone, and you’ll fall in love with it from the very first bite. Serve it with coffee or tea at weekend gatherings, and feel free to customize it with chopped nuts, dried fruits, and frostings to enhance its flavor. Here’s my simple recipe for making Baklava that’s soft, tender, and flaky.
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Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Phyllo dough | 1 pack (1 pound) |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped walnuts | 2 cups |
| Chopped pecans | 2 cups |
| Honey | 2 cups |
| Butter (melted) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Vanilla essence | 1 teaspoon |
| Grated lemon zest | 1 teaspoon |
Instructions
- Prepare the Nut Mixture: In a bowl, mix the walnuts, pecans, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly butter the baking dish.
- Layer the Phyllo Dough: Place two Phyllo sheets at the bottom of the pan and brush with melted butter. Continue layering, adding 2 tablespoons of the nut mixture between every two sheets. Brush with butter each time.
- Finish the Top Layer: Brush the top with butter to ensure a crispy and flaky finish.
- Cut the Baklava: Using a sharp knife, cut the Baklava into diamond shapes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and bake for 45-47 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
- Prepare the Syrup: While the Baklava is baking, combine honey, vanilla essence, and grated lemon zest in a saucepan. Heat gently until well mixed.
- Pour the Syrup: Once the Baklava is ready, pour the syrup over it and let it cool for 10 minutes on the counter.
- Serve: Add more nuts on top if desired. Serve warm from the oven or cooled from the fridge.
