Greek Honey Walnut Baklava with Orange Blossom Syrup

Allergens

Contains no common allergens unless specified.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. phyllo dough sheets (thawed) 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground cloves 1 cup unsalted butter, melted 1 recipe Orange Blossom Syrup (see below) Orange Blossom Syrup: 2 cups water 2 cups granulated sugar 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp orange blossom water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.
3. Unfold the phyllo dough on a clean work surface, keeping it covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying.
4. Brush a 9x13 inch baking dish with some melted butter.
5. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the bottom of the prepared dish and brush lightly with butter. Repeat with 8 more sheets, brushing each with butter before adding the next.
6. Sprinkle 1/4 of the walnut mixture evenly over the top layer of phyllo.
7. Add another 9 layers of buttered phyllo dough on top, followed by another 1/4 of the walnut mixture.
8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 until all the walnuts are used up, finishing with a final 9 layers of buttered phyllo.
9. With a sharp knife, cut the baklava into squares or diamonds, being careful not to cut through the bottom layer.
10. Bake for 35 40 minutes until golden brown.
11. While the baklava is baking, prepare the Orange Blossom Syrup by combining water, sugar, lemon juice, and orange blossom water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
12. Remove baklava from oven and immediately pour the hot syrup evenly over the top. Let it sit at room temperature for 6 8 hours or overnight to absorb the syrup fully.
13. Serve at room temperature, garnished with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or crushed pistachios if desired.

Chef’s Insight

The key to a perfect baklava is using high-quality phyllo dough and allowing it to absorb enough syrup for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

Baklava can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature, making it an excellent option for dinner parties or gatherings.