Easy Baklava

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Slice the phyllo dough in half and set aside 14 sheets for the top and bottom layers, covering them with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped walnuts with cinnamon and set aside.
3. Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegan butter. Place two sheets of phyllo dough in the bottom, brushing each layer with butter. Repeat until 8 sheets are stacked.
4. Sprinkle 2 heaping tablespoons of the nut mixture over the dough. Layer two more sheets of phyllo on top, brushing with butter. Continue layering nuts and dough until the remaining 6 sheets are on top. Brush the top layer with butter.
5. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond shapes, leaving 1 inch from the bottom of the pan.
6. Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown on top.
7. While baking, prepare the sugar syrup: combine sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat, add maple syrup and extracts, then simmer on low for 20 minutes.
8. Once the baklava is baked, pour the sugar syrup evenly over it. Let cool completely before cutting all the way through to the bottom, allowing the syrup to seep through.
9. Garnish with crushed nuts and serve.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Syrup Preparation: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 12–16
• Difficulty: Medium

Variations & Substitutions

• Use pistachios, almonds, or a combination of nuts for different flavors.
• For gluten-free baklava, use gluten-free phyllo dough.
• Swap maple syrup for honey if not strictly vegan.
• Add a few drops of orange blossom water for a fragrant twist.

Serving Suggestions