Ingredients

1 lb phyllo dough
1 1/2 lbs walnuts , chopped
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 orange , grated rind only
1 lb unsalted butter
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
1/2 cup honey
1 cinnamon stick
3 lemon slices
Baklava is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. It's made up of layers of buttery phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey syrup. The origin of baklava is not entirely clear, but some historians believe it was created by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. Today, baklava is popular throughout the world and is often served as a special occasion dessert. The combination of textures and flavors in baklava make it a delicious and memorable sweet treat.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2.Combine the chopped walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, and orange rind in a bowl.
3.Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
4.Brush a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
5.Unroll the phyllo dough and cut the sheets to fit the baking dish.
6.Cover the phyllo with a damp cloth to keep it from drying out while working.
7.Lay down the first sheet in the baking dish and brush with melted butter.
8.Repeat with 7 more sheets, brushing each layer with butter.
9.Spread about 1/3 of the walnut mixture over the phyllo layers.
10.Add 8 more phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter as before.
11.Spread another 1/3 of the walnut mixture over the layers.
12.Repeat with 8 more sheets of phyllo dough and the remaining walnut mixture.
13.Top with 8 more sheets of phyllo dough, buttering each layer.
14.With a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond-shaped pieces.
15.Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
16.Combine the water, sugar, honey, cinnamon stick, and lemon slices in a saucepan over medium heat.
17.Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes.
18.Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon slices, then pour the hot syrup over the hot baklava.
19.Let the baklava cool completely and serve.

PROS

Baklava is a popular Middle Eastern dessert known for its sweet and nutty flavor.

It’s a great option for those with a sweet tooth and can be enjoyed as a special treat or on a festive occasion.

The honey syrup makes the dessert extra sweet and creates a gooey texture that is irresistible.

CONS

Baklava is high in calories and sugar due to the combination of layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and syrup.

It’s important to enjoy this dessert in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Baklava contains healthy ingredients such as walnuts and honey.
Walnuts are a great source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats that help reduce cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease.
Honey is rich in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and can soothe a sore throat.

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