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Three triangular pieces of Greek baklava stacked on a white plate. The baklava has visible layers of flaky filo dough and a filling of chopped nuts. It is drizzled with a golden syrup and garnished with chopped green pistachios. The background is a bright pink with white swirls and colorful sprinkles.

Authentic Greek Baklava Recipe

Greek baklava is a beloved pastry of Greece I love its delicate layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup. Let me tell you about its historical roots, we can trace back it to the Ottoman Empire when it was enjoyed as a staple of Greek cuisine.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 24 People
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 10272
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Phyllo Dough 25-30 sheets
  • Nuts 500g chopped walnuts or a mix of walnuts, pistachios, and almonds
  • 2 tablespoons Cinnamon Powder
  • 2 tablespoons Ground Clove
  • Butter 300g melted
  • Sugar 600g
  • Water 400g
  • Honey or Glucose 80g
  • Zest of 1 Lemon or Orange
  • 1 tbsp Cinnamon Stick

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Pastry Brush
  • 1 Sharp Knife
  • 2 Mixing Bowls one for the nut mixture and one for the syrup
  • 1 Saucepan
  • 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • 1 Damp Cloth

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Nut Mixture: In a bowl, combine chopped nuts, cinnamon, and ground clove. Mix well.
  2. Thaw Phyllo Dough: Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
  3. Assemble the Baklava: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer 8 sheets of phyllo, brushing melted butter between each sheet. Sprinkle half of the nut mixture over the layers. Repeat with another 8 sheets of phyllo, followed by the remaining nuts. Top with 8 more buttered phyllo sheets.
  4. Cut the Baklava: Using a sharp knife, cut the assembled baklava into diamond or square shapes.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
  6. Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, honey, lemon zest, and a cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
  7. Add Syrup: Once the baklava is done baking, pour the warm syrup evenly over it.
  8. Let it Soak: Allow baklava to soak in syrup for at least 6 hours or overnight for best flavor.
  9. Serve: Cut along the original cuts and serve your delicious baklava!

Video

Notes

I've made this baklava countless times, and let me tell you - it's a real showstopper! We're talking layers of crispy phyllo, crunchy nuts, and my favorite part - that sweet honey syrup that brings it all together. Sure, it takes a bit of patience (I always let mine soak overnight), but trust me when I say it's worth the wait. I love serving this at special occasions - you won't believe the compliments you'll get. Give it a try - I think you'll fall in love with this Greek classic just like I did.