Christmas Baklava with Walnuts

Optional Garnish:

Crushed walnuts
Powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

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

2. Assemble the Baklava:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
Unroll the phyllo dough and cut it to fit the size of your baking dish. Cover the sheets with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
Place 2 sheets of phyllo dough in the baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
Sprinkle a thin layer of the walnut mixture over the phyllo.
Continue layering 2 sheets of phyllo, brushing with butter, followed by a sprinkle of walnuts. Repeat until all the walnuts are used.
Finish with 4-6 sheets of phyllo on top, brushing each with butter.

3. Cut the Baklava:

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

4. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crispy.

5. Prepare the Syrup:

While the baklava is baking, combine sugar, water, honey, cinnamon stick, cloves, and orange zest in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and discard the cinnamon stick and cloves.

6. Pour the Syrup:

Once the baklava comes out of the oven, immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over it. Allow the baklava to absorb the syrup for at least 4 hours or overnight.

7. Serve:

Garnish with crushed walnuts and a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving for an extra festive touch.

Conclusion:

This Christmas Baklava with Walnuts is a show-stopping dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. The crisp layers of phyllo, spiced walnut filling, and fragrant syrup make each bite a burst of flavor and texture. As it sits, the baklava absorbs more of the syrup, becoming even more delicious with time—so it’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for your busy holiday schedule. Share a piece with loved ones and enjoy a little extra sweetness this festive season!

Tip:
For a nutty variation, try mixing in some pistachios or almonds with the walnuts. A drizzle of dark chocolate over the top can also add a modern twist to this classic dessert.