Baklava Recipe

Prep the Filo

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Unroll the filo pastry and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.

Prepare the Nut Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.

Layer the Pastry and Filling

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted butter. Place one sheet of filo pastry in the dish, brushing it with melted butter. Repeat this process, adding 8-10 layers of filo, brushing each layer with butter. Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the top. Continue layering with more filo (brushing with butter) and nut mixture until all ingredients are used, finishing with at least 8 layers of filo on top.

Cut the Baklava

Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, being careful to cut through all layers. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.

Prepare the Syrup

While the baklava is baking, combine honey, water, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Add the Syrup

Once the baklava is done baking, immediately pour the cooled honey syrup over the hot baklava, ensuring it seeps into all the cuts. Allow it to cool completely before serving.