Baklava is a sweet and decadent dessert made with layers of thin pastry sheets, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup. It’s a delightful treat often enjoyed during special occasions.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of phyllo pastry sheets (thawed, if frozen)

– 2 cups mixed chopped nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds)

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

– For the Syrup:

  – 1 cup water

  – 1 cup granulated sugar

  – 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  – 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the chopped nuts with ground cinnamon.
3. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
4. Place a layer of phyllo pastry in the dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat, layering phyllo and butter, for about half of the sheets.
5. Sprinkle a generous layer of the chopped nut mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
6. Continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter.
7. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
9. While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup by combining water, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
10. Remove the syrup from heat and stir in rose water or orange blossom water if using.
11. Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot pastry.
12. Allow the baklava to cool and soak in the syrup before serving.