Old Fashioned Baklava

Every time I make this Old Fashioned Baklava, I am transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen. The smell of the warm, sweet syrup mingling with the nutty aroma of baked phyllo dough fills my heart with nostalgia. Growing up, our family gatherings were never complete without this delightful dessert gracing the table. I can still hear the laughter and chatter of my family as we indulged in the crispy layers of baklava, and I can only hope that when you try this recipe, you’ll feel that same warmth and happiness that I cherish.

For me, making baklava is not just about baking; it’s about creating a connection with my roots and sharing love through food. I know how important it is to have those cherished recipes handed down through generations. So let’s dive into this delicious journey together! I promise, you’re going to love this recipe as much as I do.

How to Make Old Fashioned Baklava

Ingredients

Here is the list of ingredients you’ll need to whip up this amazing treat. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect baklava flavor.

IngredientAmount
Phyllo Dough1 package (about 16 oz)
Unsalted Butter1 cup, melted
Walnuts2 cups, finely chopped
Pistachios1 cup, finely chopped
Cinnamon1 teaspoon
Sugar1 cup
Water1 cup
Honey1/2 cup
Vanilla Extract1 teaspoon
Lemon Juice1 tablespoon

Personal note: I absolutely love adding a touch more cinnamon than the recipe calls for; it makes every bite even more aromatic and delicious!

Cooking Steps

Let’s break down the process of making this lovely baklava into simple steps. Don’t worry; I’ll be right here guiding you through each one!

1. Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for getting that beautiful golden color on your baklava.

2. Prepare the Nuts

In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts and pistachios. Then, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon. This nutty mixture is what makes baklava so special!

3. Unroll the Phyllo Dough

Carefully unroll the phyllo dough, and lay it out on a clean surface. Here’s a tip: Keep the dough covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from drying out!

4. Assemble the Layers

Brush the bottom of a baking dish (a 9×13 inch dish works well) with melted butter. Then lay down the first sheet of phyllo dough. Brush it generously with butter. Repeat this step, layering about eight sheets of phyllo, making sure to butter each one.

5. Add the Nut Mixture

Spread a third of your nut mixture over the phyllo layers. Now, continue adding more phyllo dough on top, repeating the buttering process.

6. Keep Layering

After each nut layer, you’ll need to repeat the phyllo process two more times. So layer, layer, layer (but don’t forget to add butter!) until all the nuts are used.

7. Top It Off

Finish with another eight layers of buttered phyllo dough. This will give you that lovely flaky top!

8. Cut the Baklava

Before you place your baklava in the oven, cut it into diamond or square shapes using a sharp knife. This is a crucial step to ensure that the syrup seeps into every layer after baking.

9. Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.

10. Make the Syrup

While the baklava is baking, it’s time to prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, mix together sugar, water, honey, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes. The syrup should thicken slightly.

11. Drizzle the Syrup

Once the baklava is out of the oven—oh, just wait for that aroma!—immediately pour the syrup over the hot baklava. Make sure it gets into those cuts you made earlier; this is where all the magic happens!

12. Cool and Serve

Let the baklava cool completely before serving. This allows the syrup to soak in and the layers to come together beautifully.

Why I Love Making This Dish

Old Fashioned Baklava holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of my childhood, the love of family, and the joy of sharing food. There’s just something wonderful about bringing friends and family together around a delicious dessert, creating new memories while enjoying something so rich in history.

What You’ll Need

You’ll need a few basic tools to make this baklava. A large mixing bowl, a pastry brush for the butter, a sharp knife for cutting, and a 9×13 inch baking dish. Trust me, these tools make the process smooth and enjoyable!

Tips for Perfect Results

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your nuts and phyllo dough, the better the baklava will taste.
  • Don’t Rush the Buttering: Take your time layering and buttering the pastry. This helps create those wonderful flaky layers.
  • Let it Sit: After pouring the syrup over, give the baklava time to soak up the sweetness—this makes all the difference!

Serving Suggestions and Sides

Do you know what goes perfectly with baklava? A nice cup of strong coffee or some fresh peppermint tea! The flavors balance beautifully together. You might also enjoy it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Simply divine!

Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftover baklava (how can that be?!), simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If it lasts—a typical scenario with the way it disappears in my house! Just remember, it doesn’t need refrigeration, but it will keep well for several days.

FAQ Section

Can I use different nuts?
Absolutely! You can mix and match different nuts, like almonds or cashews, depending on your preference. I’ve tried many combinations, and each brings its own exciting flavor!

Do I have to use honey?
While honey gives baklava its classic flavor, you can use a mixture of sugar and maple syrup if you prefer a different taste. Just ensure you’ve got a sweet syrup no matter what!

Can I freeze baklava?
Sure thing! Baklava freezes well. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped, and when you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature.

Conclusion

I’m genuinely excited for you to dive into making this Old Fashioned Baklava. It has become a family favorite in my home, and I just know it will be in yours as well. The taste of nostalgia, the warmth of shared experiences, and the joy of creating something beautiful are all wrapped up in each flaky, sweet bite. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please share your thoughts and delightful moments with me—because trust me, when your family asks for seconds, you’ll be so proud to tell them about this recipe!

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