Satisfy your sweet tooth with this Homemade Walnut Baklava, a traditional Middle Eastern pastry known for its layers of flaky dough, rich nutty filling, and sweet syrup.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 eggs
- 5 tablespoons yogurt
- 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 drops lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Enough flour to form a pliable dough
For the Filling:
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 250g butter, melted
- Cornstarch for rolling out the dough
For the Syrup:
- 3 cups sugar
- 3 cups water
- A few drops of lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F).
- Begin with the dough by mixing eggs, yogurt, oil, baking powder, lemon juice, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add flour until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough into three equal parts. Then, divide each part into 15 balls, resulting in 45 balls total.
- Roll out each ball into a thin circle the size of a small plate, using cornstarch between layers to prevent sticking.
- Grease a baking tray and lay down the first 15 dough circles, ensuring they cover the bottom and sides. Brush each layer with melted butter.
- Sprinkle a third of the chopped walnuts over the dough.
- Repeat with the remaining dough circles and walnuts, layering and buttering as you go.
- Once all layers are assembled, cut the baklava into diamonds or squares with a sharp knife.
- Pour the remaining melted butter over the cut baklava.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes or until the baklava is golden brown.
- While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Add lemon juice, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Once the baklava is baked, remove from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over the warm pastry.
- Allow the baklava to cool completely so the syrup is fully absorbed and the layers set.
Cut through the pre-cut pieces, serve, and enjoy the sweet, nutty flavors of your Homemade Walnut Baklava. It's the perfect end to any meal or a special treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. 🍯🥐👩🏻🍳
