This Lebanese Baklava recipe is a traditional and delicious dessert made with layers of crispy phyllo dough, toasted walnuts, and a sweet, aromatic simple syrup. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you want to impress your guests, this homemade baklava combines the rich, buttery texture of phyllo with a sweet, nutty filling. The addition of orange blossom water adds a unique and fragrant touch. Whether you’re new to making baklava or looking to perfect your technique, this recipe ensures a mouthwatering result every time.

Ingredients

1 pound box of phyllo dough (9″x14″ sheets), room temperature
¾ cup clarified butter or ghee

For the Simple Syrup:

1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon orange blossom water

For the Sugared Nuts:

3 cups raw or roasted walnuts, coarsely chopped (using a food processor)
½ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Simple Syrup:

In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom water. Set aside to cool to room temperature.

Prepare the Sugared Nuts: 3. In a large bowl, mix the coarsely chopped walnuts with the granulated sugar until well combined.

Assemble the Baklava: 4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan with clarified butter. 5. Unroll the phyllo dough and trim off about an inch at the end to fit the sheets into the pan. 6. Layer 20 phyllo sheets into the prepared pan, brushing each sheet lightly with melted clarified butter. 7. Add 5-10 more phyllo sheets on top of the initial layer. Spread the sugared walnut mixture evenly over the phyllo. 8. Top the nuts with the remaining 10-15 sheets of phyllo, continuing to brush each sheet with butter. 9. Carefully cut the baklava into diamond shapes by making 4 lengthwise cuts and 9 diagonal cuts. Hold the phyllo in place with your other hand as you cut. 10. Pour the remaining melted clarified butter evenly over the baklava, letting it settle for about 5 minutes.

Bake the Baklava: 11. Bake the baklava in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through baking, until it is golden brown and crisp.

Finish with Simple Syrup: 12. Remove the baklava from the oven. Immediately pour the cooled simple syrup evenly over the baked baklava, allowing the syrup to soak in. 13. Allow the baklava to cool at room temperature for several hours before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Flavor: This Lebanese Baklava recipe delivers traditional, rich flavors with a perfect balance of sweetness, nuts, and a hint of orange blossom.
Crispy and Flaky: The phyllo dough creates layers of crispness, perfectly complemented by the sticky sweetness of the syrup.
Simple Ingredients: Made with common ingredients like phyllo dough, walnuts, and clarified butter, this recipe is easy to prepare yet feels indulgent.

Tips

Be Gentle with Phyllo Dough: Phyllo can tear easily, so handle it carefully and keep it covered with a damp towel while you work to prevent it from drying out.
Use Fresh Clarified Butter: Freshly clarified butter adds richness and enhances the flavor of the baklava.
Cut Before Baking: It’s easier to cut the baklava into diamonds before baking, so you get perfectly shaped pieces after it’s baked and soaked in syrup.

Variations and Substitutions

Nuts: Although walnuts are traditional, you can use pistachios, almonds, or a mix of different nuts for a unique twist.
Flavored Syrup: Experiment with different floral waters like rose or lemon for a different aromatic flavor in the syrup.
Sugar Alternatives: You can substitute granulated sugar with honey for a more natural sweetness in both the syrup and nut mixture.

FAQs

Can I make baklava ahead of time? Yes, baklava can be made in advance. After baking and adding the syrup, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I freeze baklava? Yes, baklava freezes well. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve as a Dessert: Baklava is perfect for after-dinner dessert with tea or coffee.
Special Occasions: Ideal for special occasions like holidays, weddings, or festive gatherings.
Garnish: Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.