How to Make the Perfect Simple Honey Walnut Baklava
Middle Eastern · Easy · 55 min · 12 servings
This simple honey walnut baklava is a kid friendly recipe that breaks down the classic Middle Eastern pastry into an easy manageable bake. Kids love the flaky layers soaked in sweet honey and the satisfying crunch of walnuts in every bite.
Why this recipe works
This Simple Honey Walnut Baklava recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 55 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 5g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 16 sheets frozen phyllo dough thawed
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1.5 cups walnuts finely chopped
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 0.5 cup honey
- 0.25 cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make Walnut Filling
Combine finely chopped walnuts and cinnamon in a bowl and mix well. Set aside while you prepare your phyllo dough and butter.
Step 2: Layer the Baklava
Brush a 9x9 baking dish with butter. Layer 8 phyllo sheets brushing each with melted butter. Spread walnut filling evenly then layer remaining 8 sheets on top each brushed with butter.
Step 3: Cut and Bake
Use a sharp knife to cut baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Pour Syrup and Cool
Heat honey, water and sugar in a saucepan until sugar dissolves. Immediately pour hot syrup over hot baklava from the oven. Cool completely before serving for best texture.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- walnuts → pistachios or pecans for a different nutty flavor and texture
- honey → maple syrup for a slightly different but equally delicious sweetness
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not buttering every single phyllo layer which causes dry patches and uneven crispiness
- Cutting baklava after baking instead of before which shatters the delicate crispy layers
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 5g protein, 30g carbs, 17g fat, 2g fiber.
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