Honey Walnut Baklava with Cinnamon and Lemon Zest
Crisp phyllo pastry layered with walnuts and finished with honey-lemon syrup.
This honey walnut baklava layers buttered phyllo with cinnamon-scented walnuts, then soaks the crisp pastry with honey syrup. Keep unused phyllo covered as you work, cut the pastry before baking and pour cooled syrup over the hot layers. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a 23 x 33 cm baking pan. Mix walnuts with cinnamon. Keep phyllo covered with a barely damp towel. Place 6 phyllo sheets in pan, brushing each lightly with butter. Scatter one-third of walnuts. Repeat layers twice; finish with 6 buttered sheets. Cut through layers into diamonds with a sharp knife. Bake 35 to 40 minutes until deep golden and crisp. Simmer honey, sugar and water 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest.
Recipe card
Honey Walnut Baklava with Cinnamon and Lemon Zest
Equipment: Measuring tools, mixing bowl and suitable pan
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare
Heat oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a 23 x 33 cm baking pan. Mix walnuts with cinnamon. Keep phyllo covered with a barely damp towel.
Layer
Place 6 phyllo sheets in pan, brushing each lightly with butter. Scatter one-third of walnuts. Repeat layers twice; finish with 6 buttered sheets.
Cut and bake
Cut through layers into diamonds with a sharp knife. Bake 35 to 40 minutes until deep golden and crisp.
Make syrup
Simmer honey, sugar and water 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest.
Soak and cool
Pour cooled syrup evenly over hot baklava. Leave uncovered several hours to absorb before serving.
How to tell when it is ready
Cook until tender and evenly heated as described.
Tips
- Measure ingredients before beginning.
- Use evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
- Cool and store leftovers promptly.
Troubleshooting
- If mixture is too wet, add binder gradually.
- If browning too quickly, lower the heat.
Substitutions
- Use a compatible neutral oil if needed.
- Choose suitable alternatives for dietary needs.
Variations
- Adjust herbs or spices to taste.
- Add a suitable seasonal ingredient.
Serving suggestions
- Serve with a fresh seasonal side.
- Pair with bread, rice or another suitable accompaniment.
- Offer a complementary sauce or topping.
- Serve warm or chilled as directed.
Make ahead
Prepare components ahead and refrigerate perishable ingredients; finish shortly before serving.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.
Food safety
Contains wheat, dairy and walnuts. Honey is not suitable for infants under 12 months.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare this ahead?
Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly; finish close to serving.
How should I store honey walnut baklava?
Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.
Serve promptly and refrigerate leftovers safely.
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