“🎄Christmas Baklava
Ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough sheets
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup of finely chopped pistachios
- 1 cup of dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped almonds or walnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of water
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, mix pistachios, cranberries, almonds or walnuts, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside. - Layer the Phyllo Dough:
- Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
- Grease a baking dish and place 2-3 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter.
- Sprinkle a layer of the filling mixture evenly.
- Repeat the process until all phyllo dough and filling are used, ending with a few layers of plain phyllo dough on top.
- Cut Before Baking:
Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. - Bake:
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden and crisp. - Prepare the Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine sugar, honey, water, lemon zest, and vanilla.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. - Combine:
Pour the warm syrup evenly over the baked baklava immediately after removing it from the oven.
Allow it to cool completely so the syrup is absorbed. - Decoration Tips:
- Garnish each piece with chopped pistachios for a vibrant green hue.
- Add a few dried cranberries on top for festive red accents.
- Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a snowy holiday look.
- Arrange the baklava on a platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly for a Christmas theme.
- Drizzle a little extra syrup over the serving dish for added shine and sweetness.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 12″