Instructions:
Preparing the Nut Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the finely chopped nuts with the ground cinnamon. This mixture will be layered between the phyllo dough and gives the baklava its signature taste and texture.
Assembling the Baklava:
- Prepare your baking dish by lightly buttering the bottom and sides of a 9×13 inch pan.
- Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the pan and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process until you have layered about 8 sheets. The butter helps the layers stick together and adds richness.
- Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the top phyllo layer.
- Continue layering by adding 2 sheets of phyllo dough (each brushed with butter) followed by a layer of nuts. Repeat this process until all the nut mixture is used, finishing with a top layer of about 6-8 sheets of phyllo dough. Remember to always brush each phyllo sheet with butter.
- Before baking, use a sharp knife to cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. This makes it easier to serve after it’s cooked and allows the syrup to penetrate the layers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden and crisp.
Preparing the Syrup:
- While the baklava is baking, combine water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and lemon zest in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon zest.
- Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the hot syrup over the hot baklava. This will ensure the syrup is absorbed, making the layers succulent.
Finishing Touches:
- Let the baklava cool completely at room temperature. This can take several hours, but it allows the syrup to fully soak through the layers and the flavors to meld.
- Cover and store the baklava at room temperature. It’s best enjoyed a day after it’s made, giving time for the flavors to develop.
Enjoy your homemade baklava as a special treat or share it with friends and family on special occasions. The combination of crispy layers, crunchy nuts, and sweet syrup makes it a dessert that’s hard to resist.