A Taste of Eden – Vegan Baklava Bites
About This Recipe
Bite-sized vegan baklava rolls made with layers of phyllo pastry, spiced walnuts, and a sweet agave nectar drizzle. A dairy-free take on the classic Middle Eastern dessert.
Baklava has been a beloved dessert across many cultures for centuries, with variations in ingredients and preparation depending on the region. This Vegan version brings together traditional flavors while being inclusive of all dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 12 phyllo pastry sheets, defrosted
- 2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup vegan butter, melted
- 3/4 cup agave nectar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 2
In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, lemon zest, and sea salt. Set aside.
- 3
Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on the work surface and brush lightly with melted vegan butter. Sprinkle with a thin layer of the spiced walnut mixture. Repeat with 11 more sheets of phyllo pastry, brushing each with butter and layering with the walnut mix until all ingredients are used up.
- 4
Carefully roll the layers into a tightly packed sausage shape, then cut into individual bite-sized pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish. Brush the tops with any remaining melted vegan butter.
- 5
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before drizzling with agave nectar glaze. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Chef's Notes
These baklava bites can be prepared gluten-free by using gluten-free phyllo pastry sheets.
Plating Tips
Dust with powdered sugar and a pinch of ground cinnamon before serving. Arrange on a platter lined with parchment for a clean presentation.