Baklava with walnuts

 

Baklava with Walnuts (Sugar-Free Option)

Ingredients:

For the Baklava:

1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed

2 cups walnuts, finely chopped

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

1/2 cup butter, melted

For the Syrup (Sugar-Free Option):

1/2 cup honey (or sugar-free honey substitute)

1/2 cup water

1/2 tsp lemon juice

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp cinnamon

---

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Walnut Filling:

In a bowl, mix chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. Assemble the Baklava:

Unroll phyllo dough and keep it covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.

Place a sheet of phyllo in the baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat 5 more times (6 layers total).

Sprinkle a thin layer of the walnut mixture.

Add 2 more layers of buttered phyllo, then another layer of walnuts. Repeat until all walnuts are used.

Top with 6 final layers of buttered phyllo.

4. Cut & Bake:

Use a sharp knife to cut into diamond or square shapes.

Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and crisp.

5. Make the Syrup:

In a saucepan, combine honey (or substitute), water, lemon juice, vanilla, and cinnamon.

Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

6. Finish & Serve:

Pour warm syrup over hot baklava. Let it soak for at least 4 hours before serving.

---

Would you like any adjustments, like using pecans or a different sugar-free sweetener?