Greek Baklava is a delicious and sweet dessert that originates from the Mediterranean. It is known for its rich flavors and flaky texture, made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and a honey syrup. This delightful treat is a favorite at celebrations and special occasions.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Greek Baklava at home is a rewarding experience. It allows you to create a rich and satisfying dessert that impresses family and friends. The crunchy layers of phyllo combined with the nutty filling and sweet syrup create a taste that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with Greek culture and tradition.
How to Make Greek Baklava
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 ounce) package phyllo dough
- 1 pound chopped nuts
- 1 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup honey
Directions:
-
Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Butter the bottoms and sides of a 9×13-inch pan.
-
Chop the nuts and toss them with cinnamon. Set aside.
-
Unroll the phyllo dough. Cut the whole stack in half to fit in the pan. Cover the phyllo with a damp cloth to keep it from drying out as you work. Place two sheets of dough in the pan, butter thoroughly with a pastry brush. Repeat until you have 8 sheets layered.
-
Sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of the nut mixture on top. Top with two sheets of dough, melted butter, and more nuts, layering as you go. The top layer should be about 6 to 8 sheets deep.
-
Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, cutting all the way to the bottom of the pan. You may cut into 4 long rows and then make diagonal cuts. Bake for about 50 minutes until baklava is golden and crisp.
-
Make the sauce while the baklava is baking. Boil sugar and water until the sugar melts. Add vanilla and honey. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
-
Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately spoon the sauce over it. Let it cool.
-
Serve in cupcake papers. This freezes well. Leave it uncovered so it does not get soggy if wrapped up.
-
Enjoy!
How to Serve Greek Baklava
Serve Greek Baklava in small pieces, either on plates or in cupcake liners. It pairs well with coffee or tea, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings and celebrations.
How to Store Greek Baklava
Store Greek Baklava in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain its crunchy texture. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it, but remember to leave it uncovered to prevent sogginess.
Tips to Make Greek Baklava
- Make sure to keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
- Use a mixture of different nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Cut the baklava before baking for easier serving.
Variation
You can try adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the nut mixture for a different flavor. Some people also like to include a bit of orange or lemon zest in the syrup for a citrusy twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use nuts other than walnuts?
Yes, you can use pistachios or almonds instead of walnuts for a different taste.
2. How long does baklava last?
Baklava can last up to a week at room temperature when stored properly.
3. Can I make baklava ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare baklava a day in advance and store it in an airtight container before serving.