This Christmas Baklava is a festive twist on a traditional favorite. Layered with flaky phyllo dough, spiced nuts, and a buttery richness, it’s a perfect dessert to share during the holidays.
Ingredients
• 1/2 pound chopped pecans
• 1/2 pound chopped walnuts
• 2–3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 pound package of phyllo dough, thawed
• 1-1/2 cups butter, melted
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
2. Prepare the Nut Mixture:
• In a bowl, combine the chopped pecans, walnuts, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3. Layer the Phyllo Dough:
• Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
• Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this step for 8–10 sheets, brushing each layer with butter.
4. Add the Nut Mixture:
• Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture evenly over the buttered phyllo.
• Add 4–5 more sheets of phyllo dough on top, brushing each with butter. Repeat the layering process (nuts, then phyllo) until all the nuts are used, finishing with a layer of 8–10 phyllo sheets on top.
5. Cut the Baklava:
• Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking.
6. Bake:
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Prepare the Syrup (Optional):
• While the baklava bakes, you can prepare a simple syrup by combining 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of honey, and 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes and allow to cool.
• Once the baklava is baked, pour the syrup evenly over it, letting it soak into the layers.
8. Cool and Serve:
• Let the baklava cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Pro Tips
• For extra holiday flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the nut mixture.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate for a festive touch.
• Phyllo dough dries out quickly, so work efficiently and keep it covered while layering.
This buttery, nutty dessert is sure to become a holiday favorite—don’t lose this recipe!
