Baklava Recipe

Prepare the Nut Filling

In a bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Prepare the Phyllo Dough

Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Assemble the Baklava

Brush a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted butter. Lay one sheet of phyllo in the dish and brush with butter. Repeat this process for the first 8 sheets. Sprinkle a layer of the nut mixture (about 1/4 of the mixture) over the phyllo. Continue layering phyllo sheets (8 sheets) followed by nuts until all nuts are used, finishing with 8 layers of phyllo on top.

Cut and Bake

Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes until golden brown.

Prepare the Honey Syrup

While baklava is baking, combine water, honey, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.

Finish with Syrup

Once the baklava is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot honey syrup over it. Let it cool completely before serving.