Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the butter and brush a generous layer over a baking dish to prevent sticking and help the layers adhere.
- Lay a sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared dish and lightly brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet, until about 8 sheets are stacked—this creates the base of your baklava.
- In a bowl, combine the chopped roasted walnuts with ground cinnamon. Spread a portion of this nut mixture evenly over the layered phyllo sheets, pressing it gently to settle the filling.1 pound phyllo dough
- Continue layering phyllo sheets, buttering each again, then add another layer of nuts, repeating until you’ve used all the filling. Finish with a final layer of phyllo, about 8 sheets, buttered on top to seal the layers.
- Cut the assembled baklava into diamond or square shapes using a sharp knife before baking. This makes it easier to serve later and ensures clean, attractive pieces.
- Bake the baklava in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp, filling your kitchen with that warm, nutty aroma.
- While it bakes, make the honey syrup: combine honey, water, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.1 pound phyllo dough
- Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the hot honey syrup evenly over the hot pastry, allowing it to seep into all the layers and create that sticky exterior.1 pound phyllo dough
- Let the baklava cool completely to allow the syrup to set and the layers to become beautifully sticky and crisp. Serve at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
Notes
For best results, prepare the baklava a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.