Ingredients

1 cup honey
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 lemon , juice and zest of ( zest in strip to remove later )
1 orange , zest of ( in strip to remove later )
2 cups walnuts , finely ground
1 cup almonds , finely ground
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
4 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 lb phyllo dough
1/4 lb unsalted butter , melted
Greek Baklava is a sweet, rich, and luxurious dessert that is a tradition in Greece and is enjoyed by many around the world. The history of baklava dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was considered a specialty reserved for royalty. The combination of phyllo, honey, nuts, and spices creates a flavor explosion in your mouth that will make you go 'wow'. It is perfect for bringing the taste of Greece to your kitchen and impressing guests with its intricate look. It is a traditional dessert served at Christmas and Easter but can be enjoyed year-round. It can be served with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to bring a richer taste.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F.
2.In a saucepan mix honey, water, sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Remove the zest strips and set aside.
3.In a separate bowl mix the walnuts, almonds, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
4.Grease a 9x12 inch baking dish with butter.
5.Layer the sheets of phyllo, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you go. Make sure to keep the unused sheets covered with a damp cloth.
6.Sprinkle half the nut mixture over the phyllo.
7.Add another layer of phyllo, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
8.Add the rest of the nut mixture over the second layer.
9.Layer the rest of the phyllo sheets, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
10.Cut the Baklava into diamond-shaped pieces.
11.Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
12.Pour the honey syrup over the hot baklava, making sure to cover all the pieces.
13.Allow Baklava to cool before serving.

PROS

Greek Baklava brings a traditional taste of Greece to your plate with its crunchy texture of nuts and sweetness of honey syrup.
It is a perfect dessert to be enjoyed with family and friends and can also be served at small parties and occasions.
It is relatively easy to make but brings a sophisticated look and feel to any dessert table.

CONS

It is high in calories and fat due to the sweet syrup and nuts but can be enjoyed in moderation.
The fillo dough can dry out quickly, making it challenging to handle.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Greek Baklava has various health benefits. Walnuts and almonds are the main ingredients that make this dessert healthy as nuts are known to lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart diseases, and regulate sugar levels. The honey syrup used in Baklava has antibacterial properties, relieves sore throat, cough, and cold, and improves digestion.

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