Layer buttered filo over spiced walnuts, bake until golden, then soak in warm syrup. Serve with coffee or tea.
INGREDIENTS
For the Pastry and Filling:
- 1 package filo sheets (about 1 lb / 450g)
- 1 pound finely chopped walnuts
- 1 pound unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
For the Syrup:
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 small cinnamon stick (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rose water
INSTRUCTIONS
- Mix walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and orange blossom water. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan.
- Place one filo sheet, brush with butter. Repeat 4–5 times. Sprinkle thin walnut layer. Alternate pastry and walnuts, ending with 5–6 buttered top sheets.
- Slice into diamonds or squares before baking.
- 40–45 minutes until deep golden.
- While baking, boil sugar, water, lemon, cinnamon, cloves, and honey for 15–20 minutes until slightly thick. Add rose water at the end if using.
- Pour warm syrup over hot baklava immediately. Let cool completely. Serve.
