Baklava

Baklava with nuts and cinnamon - A crunchy and sweet delicacy

Welcome to the wonderful world of baklava! This recipe for baklava with nuts and cinnamon is a true explosion of flavors, perfect for those who appreciate sweets with an intense taste and varied textures. This recipe is not just about combining ingredients; it is a journey into the culinary universe, where tradition and innovation blend perfectly.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 servings

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough (approximately 250 g)
- 200 g margarine
- 400 g walnut kernels
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 200 g sugar
- 120 g honey
- 150 ml water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
To achieve truly delicious baklava, it is essential to use fresh, quality ingredients. Make sure the nuts are finely ground but not too much, so they retain some of their texture. It is important not to add more than one teaspoon of cinnamon, as it can become bitter. Allow the phyllo sheets to thaw completely to avoid tearing during assembly.

Step 2: Assembling the baklava
Divide the phyllo sheets into three equal parts. In a bowl, mix the ground nuts with the cinnamon. Melt the margarine in a saucepan and prepare to build the delicious layers.

1. Place the first phyllo sheet in the prepared pan (preferably a medium-sized pan) and generously brush it with melted margarine.
2. Add the second phyllo sheet, brush it again with margarine, then repeat the process with the third sheet.
3. Once you finish the first batch of sheets, sprinkle half of the nut and cinnamon mixture.
4. Continue with the second batch of sheets, brushing each sheet with margarine. Finally, sprinkle the other half of the nut mixture.
5. Cover everything with the last batch of sheets, brushing them well with margarine.

Step 3: Refrigerating the baklava
To ensure easy cutting and a uniform appearance, cover the pan with plastic wrap and leave it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This will help firm up the layers of dough and make cutting easier.

Step 4: Baking
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Remove the pan from the refrigerator and use a sharp knife to cut the baklava into rectangles or diamonds, depending on your preference.

1. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the baklava for about 25 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy.
2. While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup.

Step 5: Preparing the syrup
In a small saucepan, mix the water and sugar and bring to a boil over low heat. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the honey and let the mixture boil again. Once it starts boiling, add the vanilla essence and mix well.

Step 6: Finishing
After the baklava is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the hot syrup over it. Allow the baklava to absorb the syrup for at least 3-4 hours (ideally, leave it overnight), so the flavors meld perfectly.

Serving and variations
Baklava is delicious served cold, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. You can accompany it with a scoop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of textures. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, or add a splash of rose water to the syrup for a floral note.

Nutritional benefits
Baklava is a good source of energy due to its rich nut content, which is packed with healthy fats, proteins, and antioxidants. Additionally, honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, providing extra health benefits.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, butter will provide a richer taste, but make sure to melt it well before use.

2. How can I store baklava?
Baklava is best stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a week.

3. Can I freeze baklava?
Yes, you can freeze baklava before drizzling it with syrup. Make sure to wrap it well to avoid excessive freezing.

This recipe for baklava with nuts and cinnamon is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings together tradition and innovation. So gather your family and friends and enjoy every crunchy, sweet, and aromatic bite! Enjoy!