THE BEST BAKLAVA

Instructions:

Preparing the Nut Mixture:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the finely chopped nuts with the ground cinnamon. This mixture will be layered between the phyllo dough and gives the baklava its signature taste and texture.

Assembling the Baklava:

1. Prepare your baking dish by lightly buttering the bottom and sides of a 9×13 inch pan.
2. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the pan and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process until you have layered about 8 sheets. The butter helps the layers stick together and adds richness.
3. Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the top phyllo layer.
4. Continue layering by adding 2 sheets of phyllo dough (each brushed with butter) followed by a layer of nuts. Repeat this process until all the nut mixture is used, finishing with a top layer of about 6-8 sheets of phyllo dough. Remember to always brush each phyllo sheet with butter.
5. Before baking, use a sharp knife to cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. This makes it easier to serve after it’s cooked and allows the syrup to penetrate the layers.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden and crisp.

Preparing the Syrup:

1. While the baklava is baking, combine water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and lemon zest in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon zest.
3. Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the hot syrup over the hot baklava. This will ensure the syrup is absorbed, making the layers succulent.

Finishing Touches:

• Let the baklava cool completely at room temperature. This can take several hours, but it allows the syrup to fully soak through the layers and the flavors to meld.
• Cover and store the baklava at room temperature. It’s best enjoyed a day after it’s made, giving time for the flavors to develop.

Enjoy your homemade baklava as a special treat or share it with friends and family on special occasions. The combination of crispy layers, crunchy nuts, and sweet syrup makes it a dessert that’s hard to resist.