Baklava With Walnuts

• PREPARATION : Grease a 25 cm x 30 cm (10 x 13-inch) baking sheet with butter. Preheat the oven to 190 °C / 375 °F.
• CLARIFIED BUTTER : Place a saucepan with butter over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Place a sieve over a bowl, and place a paper towel into the sieve. Pour the butter into the paper-lined sieve to get rid of any impurities. Set aside until needed.
• PHYLLO DOUGH : Unroll the thawed phyllo pastry and place it onto parchment paper. Cut the phyllo to the same size as your baking sheet (25 cm x 30 cm (10 x 13-inch). You should get around 24 sheets of pastry. Cover the phyllo dough with parchment paper, then place a damp kitchen towel on top to prevent the dough from drying while you work on your filling.
• WALNUT FILLING : Stir to combine ground walnuts, cinnamon powder, allspice powder, and nutmeg powder in a bowl.
• MAKE THE WALNUT BAKLAVA : Add a sheet of phyllo pastry to the prepared baking sheet. Brush with clarified melted butter, then repeat the process until you get 12 layers of pastry. Arrange the walnut filling on top. Continue with the rest of the phyllo pastry. Brush with clarified melted butter, then repeat the process until you get another 12 layers of pastry. (TIP : You can use any leftover phyllo pastry to fit any empty space on the baking sheet)
• CUT THE BAKLAVA : Cut the baklava into four long strips, approximately 5 centimeters (2-inch) in thickness. Pour half of the remaining butter on top and evenly distribute. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into 28 diamond-shaped pieces and pour with the rest of the remaining clarified butter on top.
• BAKE : Place a baking sheet with Baklava into the preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 30 minutes at 190 °C / 375 °F, then lower the heat to 160 °C / 320 °F and continue to bake for 20 – 30 minutes or until the Baklava is golden-brown and crispy.
• SYRUP : While the Baklava is baking, prepare the syrup. Combine sugar, honey, water, cinnamon, and lemon in a saucepan. Place over medium heat and bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat. Stir lemon juice and rose water into the syrup. Before pouring the syrup over the Baklava, remove the lemon slices and cinnamon stick.
• WALNUT BAKLAVA : While the Baklava is still hot, pour the homemade honey syrup all over the dessert. Set aside to cool for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, optionally decorate with whole walnuts or ground walnuts.

The Art of Preparation

Mastering the Phyllo Dough

Crafting the perfect phyllo dough is the cornerstone of exceptional Baklava with walnuts. Begin by combining flour, water, and a pinch of salt to form a smooth, elastic dough. Divide the dough into manageable portions and roll them out into thin, translucent sheets. The key lies in patience and precision, as each layer should be as thin as parchment paper to achieve that signature flakiness.

Layering with Love

With your phyllo dough prepared, it’s time to assemble your Baklava with walnuts with care and precision. Start by brushing each layer of phyllo with melted butter, ensuring that every inch is generously coated. Sprinkle a generous layer of finely chopped walnuts over the buttered surface, allowing their crunchy texture to contrast beautifully with the delicate pastry. Repeat this process, layer upon layer, until you’ve built a decadent tower of goodness.

Infusing with Flavor

Sweetening the Deal

No Baklava with walnuts is complete without a drizzle of sweet syrup to elevate its flavors to new heights. Prepare a simple syrup by simmering equal parts sugar and water until fully dissolved, then infuse it with a splash of lemon juice and a hint of aromatic spices such as cinnamon and cloves. Pour the fragrant syrup over the freshly baked Baklava, allowing it to seep into every crevice and infuse each bite with a burst of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

A Taste of Tradition

Traditionally served as a celebratory dessert during festive occasions. Baklava with walnuts is best enjoyed alongside a piping hot cup of Turkish coffee or a refreshing glass of mint tea. For an added touch of indulgence. Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a dollop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Whether shared among friends or savored in solitude. Every bite is a testament to the timeless allure of this beloved dessert.