Traditional Greek Baklava: A Symphony of Honey-Soaked Layers and Crunchy Nuts

Baklava is a classic Greek dessert that beautifully combines layers upon layers of crispy phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and aromatic spices, all drenched in a luscious honey syrup. This rich and decadent treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a sweet indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
• 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pistachios), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the nut mixture: In a bowl, combine the mixed nuts, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Set aside.
3. Assemble the baklava:
   1. Trim the phyllo dough to fit your baking dish. Cover the dough with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
   2. Brush the bottom and sides of a 9x13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
   3. Place a sheet of phyllo in the dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this step with 7 more sheets, buttering each layer.
   4. Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the buttered phyllo sheets.
   5. Continue layering phyllo sheets (8 sheets at a time), buttering each, and alternating with the nut mixture until all the nuts are used up. Finish with a final layer of 8 buttered phyllo sheets.
4. Cut the baklava: Using a sharp knife, cut the assembled baklava into diamond or square shapes.
5. Bake the baklava: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.
6. Make the syrup:
   1. While the baklava is baking, combine the sugar, water, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
   2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
   3. Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool slightly.
7. Pour the syrup: Once the baklava is done baking, immediately pour the slightly cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Ensure that all pieces are well coated.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the baklava to cool completely at room temperature before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Enjoy!

This Traditional Greek Baklava offers a divine combination of crispy, buttery layers and sweet, nutty filling that's sure to delight your taste buds.