Baklava Recipe
Baklava is a beloved dessert in Azerbaijan and many other cultures, known for its rich flavors and flaky texture. This recipe captures the essence of traditional baklava, featuring layers of delicate dough filled with a sweet nut mixture and drizzled with syrup. Here’s how to make this delightful treat:
Ingredients
For the Baklava:
- 1 package of filo dough (16 oz), thawed
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or almonds), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Walnut halves for garnish (optional)
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Unroll the filo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
- Brush a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Place one sheet of filo dough in the baking dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering about 8 sheets.
- After the first 8 layers, spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the dough.
- Continue layering 4 more sheets of filo, brushing each with butter, followed by another layer of nuts. Repeat this process until all the nut mixture is used, finishing with about 8 layers of buttered filo on top.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, ensuring you cut all the way through to the bottom.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.
- While the baklava is baking, combine water, sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Allow it to soak in for several hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- If desired, top the baklava with walnut halves for decoration. Once the baklava has cooled and absorbed the syrup, it’s ready to be served. Enjoy this sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips:
i. Keep the filo dough covered while working to prevent it from drying out.
ii. You can customize the nut filling according to your preference.
iii. For an extra touch, sprinkle some finely chopped nuts on top before serving.
Enjoy your homemade baklava, a delicious representation of Azerbaijani cuisine.