Old Fashioned Baklava
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Old-fashioned baklava is a delightful treat that carries the warmth of tradition and the irresistible allure of sweet, nutty layers. This beloved pastry, with its flaky filo dough and rich walnut filling, has a special place in many homes, especially during festive gatherings and celebrations. I can still remember the first time I tried my grandmother’s baklava – the way it melted in my mouth, perfectly balanced with honey and lemon. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating this iconic dessert in your own kitchen, filling your home with its enchanting aroma.
Why you’ll love this dish
This classic baklava recipe is not just about flavor; it’s about the experience of making something beautiful and delicious from scratch. Why should you try your hand at this delightful dessert? Here are a few reasons:
- Authentic taste: When you make baklava at home, you’re crafting an authentic version that you can be proud of.
- Perfect for occasions: Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply want to spoil yourself, baklava is sure to impress.
- Budget-friendly: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe offers a fantastic dessert that won’t break the bank.
"This baklava was a showstopper at our family dinner! Everyone loved the layers of flavor and perfect sweetness." – A Baklava Enthusiast
Preparing Old Fashioned Baklava
Making baklava is a delightful blend of assembling ingredients, layering filo pastry, and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the oven. Here’s a brief look at what to expect:
- Prep your workspace: Thaw your filo dough and organize your ingredients.
- Create the syrup: You’ll whip up a simple honey syrup that will give your baklava that sweet, sticky finish.
- Layer the goodness: Alternating between brushed filo sheets and walnut filling is the key to achieving that signature texture.
- Bake to perfection: Let it bake until golden brown, then drizzle with syrup while hot.
With this guidance, you’re on your way to crafting a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for your baklava:
- 1 (16 oz.) package of filo pastry dough, thawed
- 13 tbsp. melted unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cups walnuts, chopped finely
- 1 tsp. cinnamon
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup pure honey
Feel free to explore substitutes; for instance, almond or pistachio can make for a delightful twist in the nut department!
Step-by-step instructions
Ready to dive into the preparation? Follow these simple steps:
- Trim filo pastry dough to fit your 13 x 9-inch baking dish and cover it with a damp towel to keep it moist.
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F and grease your baking dish with 1 tbsp. of melted butter.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, lemon juice, water, and honey over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar, then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 4 minutes without stirring. Allow it to cool.
- Pulse walnuts in a food processor until finely chopped. Mix the nuts with cinnamon in a medium bowl and set aside.
- Layer 10 sheets of filo dough into the greased baking dish, brushing melted butter between each sheet. Spread 3/4 cup of the walnut mixture over this layer.
- Add another 5 sheets of buttered filo, followed by another 3/4 cup of walnuts. Repeat this until you use up the walnut mixture, finishing with 10 more sheets of buttered filo dough.
- Brush the top layer with butter, then slice the baklava into 1 1/2-inch strips and cut diagonally to create diamond shapes.
- Bake uncovered for 85 minutes until the pastry is golden.
- Drizzle the cooled honey syrup over the baked baklava while it’s still hot, letting it soak in.
- Allow it to cool completely before serving.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving baklava is all about showcasing its beauty. Consider these ideas:
- Plating tip: Serve individual diamond pieces on a decorative plate, perhaps garnished with crushed walnuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.
- Pair with tea: A cup of strong black tea or mint tea complements the sweetness of baklava wonderfully.
- Use as a topping: Crumble it over vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert mash-up.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your baklava fresh:
- At room temperature: Store baklava in an airtight container where it can last for up to a week.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer it chilled, it can be kept in the fridge for approximately two weeks. Just let it warm up slightly before serving for optimal texture.
- Freezing: Baklava also freezes well. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn; it will last for about three months frozen. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to elevate your baklava game:
- Keep the filo covered: This prevents it from drying out while you’re working.
- Butter every layer: It’s crucial for achieving that flaky, rich texture.
- Don’t rush the syrup: Letting it cool completely after cooking enhances the flavor and helps it soak into the pastry better.
Creative twists
Baklava is incredibly versatile! Here are some delightful variations to try:
- Nut swaps: Experiment with a mix of nuts like pistachios or almonds for a different flavor.
- Spiced honey syrup: Add a pinch of cardamom or a few cloves while simmering the syrup for an exotic twist.
- Dairy-free version: Make it vegan by using plant-based butter and agave syrup instead of honey.
Common questions
Here are some questions that often arise while making baklava:
How long does it take to prepare baklava?
Preparation takes about 30 minutes, followed by 85 minutes for baking, making a total of roughly 2 hours from start to finish.
Can I use pre-made syrup instead of making my own?
While you can use store-bought syrup, homemade syrup enhances the depth and freshness of flavor in your baklava.
Is it safe to store baklava with honey syrup?
Yes, it is safe to store baklava as long as it’s in an airtight container. The sugars in the honey help to preserve the dessert.
Diving into the world of homemade baklava not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also allows you to share a piece of tradition with loved ones. With these easy-to-follow steps, you’ll soon be enjoying this timeless dessert right from your kitchen! Enjoy!
Baklava
Ingredients
Method
- Trim filo pastry dough to fit your 13 x 9-inch baking dish and cover it with a damp towel to keep it moist.
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F and grease your baking dish with 1 tbsp. of melted butter.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, lemon juice, water, and honey over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar, then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 4 minutes without stirring. Allow it to cool.
- Pulse walnuts in a food processor until finely chopped. Mix the nuts with cinnamon in a medium bowl and set aside.
- Layer 10 sheets of filo dough into the greased baking dish, brushing melted butter between each sheet. Spread 3/4 cup of the walnut mixture over this layer.
- Add another 5 sheets of buttered filo, followed by another 3/4 cup of walnuts. Repeat this until you use up the walnut mixture, finishing with 10 more sheets of buttered filo dough.
- Brush the top layer with butter, then slice the baklava into 1 1/2-inch strips and cut diagonally to create diamond shapes.
- Bake uncovered for 85 minutes until the pastry is golden.
- Drizzle the cooled honey syrup over the baked baklava while it’s still hot, letting it soak in.
- Allow it to cool completely before serving.
