This Chilled Baklava recipe offers a unique twist on the traditional Middle Eastern dessert by incorporating a cold syrup and a delightful combination of chocolate shavings and pistachios. This version features layers of buttery baklava dough filled with nuts and topped with a cooling milky syrup, making it an exceptional treat that differs from the usual oven-baked sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This: This chilled baklava stands out due to its refreshing take on the typically rich dessert. The cooling effect of the milky syrup contrasts beautifully with the crisp layers of baklava dough, providing a pleasant surprise to the palate. The addition of chocolate and a dusting of cocoa powder not only enhances the flavor but also adds a modern twist that chocolate lovers will appreciate. The nutty filling can be customized with pistachios, hazelnuts, or walnuts, allowing for a variety of textures and tastes.
Perfect Occasion: This dessert is perfect for warm summer evenings, festive gatherings, or as a special treat during the Ramadan season. It’s also an excellent choice for potlucks or as a sophisticated dessert option at multicultural events. The chilled aspect makes it a refreshing alternative to heavier, baked desserts, ideal for any occasion that calls for something uniquely delicious and visually appealing.
Decoration Tips: For a stunning presentation, dust the top of the baklava with cocoa powder just before serving, and sprinkle generously with chocolate shavings and chopped pistachios. The contrast of the dark cocoa and the bright green pistachios makes the baklava visually striking. Serve each piece on a small plate with a mint leaf for an extra touch of elegance, and perhaps a dollop of whipped cream on the side for those who desire a richer experience.
Ingredients:
- Baklava:
- 470 grams of baklava dough
- 150-180 grams of melted butter
- 70 ml of oil
- 200-250 grams of chopped pistachios (optional: substitute with hazelnuts or walnuts)
- Syrup:
- 200 ml of water
- 360 grams of sugar
- 400 ml of milk
- Garnish:
- Cocoa powder
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped pistachios
Instructions:
- Prepare the syrup by combining water and sugar in a pot. Whisk until dissolved, then bring to a boil and simmer on medium heat for 7 minutes. Allow to cool, then stir in the milk and refrigerate until cold.
- Melt butter in a pot, skimming off the foam. Mix in the oil.
- Cut the baklava dough in half to create two sets of 16 sheets each. Cover the dough with a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Grease a 37×26 cm baking dish with some of the butter-oil mixture. Layer 16 sheets in the dish, brushing each with the butter-oil mixture, especially the edges.
- After the first 16 sheets, spread the chopped nuts evenly.
- Continue layering the remaining 16 sheets, brushing each with the butter-oil mixture. Cut into squares.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C for 50-60 minutes until golden brown. Check the bottom for doneness; if needed, place the dish directly on the oven floor for a few minutes.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then evenly pour the cold syrup over the hot baklava. Let it soak thoroughly.
- Refrigerate to chill. Before serving, dust with cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate shavings and chopped pistachios.
Enjoy this chilled baklava as a perfect ending to any meal, combining traditional flavors with a refreshing twist!
