A Timeless Treat with a Holiday Twist
Baklava, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert, is known for its flaky layers of phyllo dough, sweet filling, and rich syrup. This Christmas, elevate this classic recipe with a festive twist. By incorporating warm holiday spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, along with the bright citrus flavor of orange zest, this Christmas Baklava is sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Ingredients:
For the Baklava Layers:
1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Christmas Syrup:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup honey
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cinnamon stick
2-3 whole cloves
Zest of 1 orange
For Garnish:
Crushed pistachios or red and green sugar sprinkles
Preparation:
Prep the Phyllo Dough:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
Mix the Filling:
In a bowl, combine the walnuts, pistachios, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Assemble the Baklava:
Place one sheet of phyllo dough into the baking dish and brush it with melted butter.
Repeat with 7 more sheets, buttering each one.
Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo.
Add 4 more sheets of phyllo, buttering each one, and layer more nuts.
Repeat until the nuts are used up, finishing with 8 layers of buttered phyllo on top.
Cut the Baklava:
Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden and crisp.
Prepare the Syrup:
While the baklava is baking, make the syrup.
Combine sugar, honey, water, vanilla, cinnamon stick, cloves, and orange zest in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick and cloves.
Add the Syrup:
Pour the hot syrup evenly over the baklava as soon as it comes out of the oven.
Let it soak for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Garnish:
Sprinkle with crushed pistachios or festive red and green sugar sprinkles for a Christmas touch.
Serve:
Enjoy this festive baklava with coffee or tea!
This Christmas Baklava combines the classic recipe with warm holiday spices and orange zest for a festive flavor twist! It’s a perfect dessert to share with family and friends during the holiday season.
