Ramadan is the perfect time to indulge in rich, flavorful, and traditional desserts, and Baklava is a must have for Iftar! This crispy, flaky, and nutty pastry, drenched in a sweet honey syrup, is a classic Middle Eastern treat that is perfect sweet delight for your tongue after a day long fast.
Also Read: Crispy Chicken Cheese Nuggets – A Perfect Iftar Treat!
Ingredients
- For the Baklava Layers: 1 pack (250g) phyllo pastry sheets (thawed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts or pistachios or almonds – finely chopped)
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
- For the Honey Syrup: 1 cup sugar
- ¾ cup water
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp rose water (optional)
Step By Step Guide
Prepare The Nut Mixture
Mix chopped nuts and cinnamon powder in a bowl and set aside.
Assemble The Baklava
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Brush a baking dish with melted butter. The ideal size of baking dish is usually 9x13 inch. Layer 5 to 6 sheets of phyllo pastry, brushing each layer with melted butter and spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the pastry. Repeat the layering process alternating pastry sheets and nut mixture. Finish with 5 or 6 layers of phyllo on top, brushing each with butter. Cut the baklava into diamond or square shape before baking.
Bake The Baklava
Bake it for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Prepare The Honey Syrup
Mix Sugar, water, honey and lemon juice in a saucepan and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the syrup thickens. Add rose water if using and let it cool for a while.
Pour & Serve
Take the Baklava out of the oven and instantly pour the warm syrup over it. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight so that the syrup is absorbed fully. Garnish it with chopped pistachios and serve at Iftar!
