Description
Celebrate the holidays with the rich, flaky, and sweet flavors of Christmas Baklava! This classic dessert features layers of crisp phyllo dough, a spiced nut filling, and a luscious honey syrup infused with vanilla and lemon zest. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this baklava recipe adds festive cheer to any dessert table.
Who Is This Recipe For?
- Home Bakers: Ideal for those looking to impress guests with a show-stopping dessert.
- Holiday Hosts: A festive and flavorful dessert centerpiece.
- Nut Lovers: Perfect for those who adore the combination of walnuts and pecans.
- Fans of Classic Desserts: A timeless recipe with a holiday twist.
Why It’s Great
- Timeless Tradition: A beloved dessert enjoyed worldwide.
- Holiday Spirit: Flavors of cinnamon, honey, and lemon zest make it perfect for Christmas.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Baklava tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for advance preparation.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the nut blend or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pack (1 lb) phyllo dough, thawed
- 2 cups chopped walnuts
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1½ cups melted butter
- 2 cups honey
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- 1 tsp grated lemon zest
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife
- Saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Nut Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, pecans, and ground cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.
2. Prep the Baking Dish:
- Lightly brush your baking dish with melted butter to prevent sticking.
3. Layer the Phyllo Dough:
- Lay two sheets of phyllo dough on the bottom of the pan and brush generously with melted butter.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the nut mixture over the buttered phyllo.
- Repeat the process, layering phyllo sheets, brushing with butter, and sprinkling the nut mixture until all ingredients are used.
- Finish with a layer of phyllo dough brushed with butter on top.
4. Cut into Shapes:
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the baklava into diamond shapes or squares.
5. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F.
- Bake the baklava for 45–47 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
6. Prepare the Syrup:
- While the baklava bakes, heat a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add honey, vanilla essence, and grated lemon zest. Stir and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
7. Add the Syrup:
- Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the top.
- Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb the syrup.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with extra chopped nuts if desired. Serve warm from the oven or let it cool completely before serving.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQ
Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Pistachios or almonds work beautifully as substitutes or additions to the nut mixture.
Do I need to thaw the phyllo dough?
Absolutely. Ensure it’s fully thawed before using, as it’s delicate and prone to cracking when frozen.
How do I prevent the baklava from getting soggy?
Pour the syrup over hot baklava, or let the syrup cool completely before drizzling over cooled baklava. This prevents sogginess.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, replace butter with a vegan alternative and honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Conclusion
Christmas Baklava is a festive delight that blends the richness of nuts, the sweetness of honey, and the flaky perfection of phyllo dough. Whether served warm or chilled, this dessert will bring holiday cheer to your table. Try this recipe for a timeless holiday treat that’s sure to become a new favorite!
