Classic Baklava with Walnuts

Съставки

• Phyllo dough sheets1 lb
• Walnuts, finely chopped3 cups
• Unsalted butter, melted1.5 cups
• Sugar2 cups
• Water1 cup
• Honey1 cup
• Lemon juice2 tbsp
• Cinnamon1 tsp
• Ground cloves0.25 tsp
• Pistachios, chopped (for garnish)0.5 cup

Стъпки

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

2. 2

   In a bowl, combine chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.

3. 3

   Layer the phyllo dough: Place one sheet of phyllo in the pan, brush generously with melted butter. Repeat with 7-10 more sheets, buttering each layer.

4. 4

   Spread half of the walnut mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.

5. 5

   Layer another 7-10 sheets of phyllo dough, buttering each layer.

6. 6

   Spread the remaining walnut mixture.

7. 7

   Top with the remaining phyllo sheets, buttering each layer generously. Ensure the top layer is well-buttered.

8. 8

   Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, cutting all the way through to the bottom layer.

9. 9

   Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

10. 10

    While baklava is baking, prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, honey, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.

11. 11

    Remove baklava from oven. Immediately pour the hot syrup evenly over the hot baklava. The syrup should sizzle.

12. 12

    Let the baklava cool completely at room temperature for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the syrup to soak in.

13. 13

    Garnish with chopped pistachios before serving.