Ingredients

1 lb phyllo dough
1 cup unsalted butter or 1 cup margarine , melted
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 cups finely ground walnuts ( or a combination of ground walnuts and ground almonds )
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons sugar
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
1 cup honey
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Originating in the Middle East, baklava is a dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. It typically consists of layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. This version of baklava is made with a combination of walnuts and almonds, delicious and crunchy, then it is flavored with lemon and vanilla. The honey syrup is fragrant and sweet, incorporating additional layers of flavor. This Baklava recipe is a little different than most; we use vanilla essence and fresh lemon juice to add a fragrant and tangy element. This twist in flavors is a unique feature that will elevate the taste of traditional baklava.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F.
2.In a medium bowl, combine ground walnuts (or a combination of walnuts and almonds), 2 tablespoons sugar and cinnamon.
3.In another bowl, combine melted butter or margarine with vegetable oil.
4.Brush bottom of 13x9 inch baking dish with some of the butter mixture.
5.Unroll phyllo dough, keeping it covered with damp towel to prevent from drying out. Place one sheet of dough into the baking dish and brush with the butter mixture. Repeat until half of the phyllo dough is used up.
6.Spread the nut mixture over the phyllo dough in the baking dish.
7.Layer the remaining phyllo dough sheets on top, brushing each with butter mixture.
8.Cut the baklava into diamond shapes or squares using a sharp knife.
9.Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown.
10.While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup. Combine the water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, vanilla and cinnamon in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
11.When the baklava is finished, remove from oven and spoon the hot syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Let the baklava cool before serving. Enjoy!

PROS

This Lemon, Vanilla and Honey Baklava is a sweet and tangy dessert that will leave your taste buds singing.
The layers of flaky phyllo dough paired with the crunchy nut filling and the fragrant syrup make for a delicious and satisfying treat.

The baklava is perfect for serving at parties, potlucks or any time you want to indulge your sweet tooth.

CONS

Baklava is high in calories and sugar, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
It is also quite time-consuming to make, so it may not be the best option for those with a busy schedule.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Lemon, Vanilla and Honey Baklava may not be the healthiest dessert option, it does contain some beneficial ingredients. Nuts are a great source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Honey has been known to have antibacterial properties, boost energy, and it is a better sweetener option when compared to white sugar.

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