Christmas Baklava

This is a truly traditional Christmas dessert that is made by many people across the globe. It is a sweet treat made with Phyllo dough, nuts, honey or sugar. This dessert is extremely rich and decadent.

It seems there is a secret to making the best Baklava, this secret is to go slowly, layer carefully.

The honey syrup topping is not added until after baking and cooling.

Again, the key to a properly and correctly made Baklava is to layer properly, cook each layer if needed,  before adding the next one. There is no dessert quite like Baklava, many try to imitate, but none will match.

Frequently Asked Questions:

            Is it really so confusing?

Absolutely not! It sounds harder than it really is. Once it is done, you will impress family and friends with the best Holiday dessert.

            How do I store this dessert?

I keep mine in the refrigerator, tightly covered. It will last 3 to 4 days.

            Can I freeze this?

I have not done so myself, however, I have seen Baklava in my store freezers. I believe it must be possible.

What do you need to make Christmas Baklava

            1 package Phyllo dough

            8 ounces pecans, chopped

            8 ounces walnuts, chopped

            2 ½ cups honey

            1 ½ cup butter, melted

            2 tbsp ground cinnamon

            1 tsp vanilla

            1 tsp lemon zest

How to make Christmas Baklava

FIRST STEP:

Preheat the oven to 350*

Line the bottom of a baking dish with melted butter

Place a layer of the Phyllo dough over the melted butter

Brush the Phyllo layer with butter

SECOND STEP:

In a bowl combine the pecans and walnuts, along with the cinnamon and mix well

a)

b)

Place a layer of the nut mixture over the layer of Phyllo dough and butter

Continue following the same steps 3 through 6 until the dough is used

Using a sharp knife cut four vertical slices through the phyllo layers

Go back and cut Diagonally with the sharp knife, this should form a diamond pattern

THIRD STEP:

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes

In a pot on the stove top, combine honey, vanilla and the lemon zest

Drizzle over the Baklava and allow to cool before serving.

a)

b)

c)

Enjoy!

YUM!