Martha Stewart Baklava Recipe

Martha Stewart’s Walnut and Honey Baklava is a wonderful way to do just that with its layers of crispy phyllo dough, rich nuts, and sweet honey syrup.

You’ll want to work carefully with a sharp knife to create that precise diamond pattern — a trick that also makes serving a breeze!

Don’t be afraid to be generous with the honey syrup along with fresh, quality nuts – it’s what gives the baklava that amazing golden, flaky quality

How to Make Martha Stewart Baklava Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Phyllo Dough (thawed)
• 1 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
• 2 cups Walnuts (finely chopped)
• 1 tsp Cinnamon (ground)
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 cup Water
• 1 cup Honey
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Set aside the prepared dish.

Step 2:

Combine the chopped walnuts and cinnamon in a bowl.

Unroll the phyllo dough sheets.

Cover with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

Step 3:

Brush a sheet of phyllo with melted butter and lay in the dish.

Repeat until you have layered 8 sheets.

Spread a thin layer of walnuts over the sheets.

Step 4:

Continue layering phyllo and nuts, finishing with 8 layers of phyllo on top.

Brush the top with more butter.

Use a sharp knife to cut into diamond shapes.

Step 5:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes until crisp and golden.

Meanwhile, make the syrup by boiling sugar, water, honey, and vanilla.

Pour the hot syrup over the baked baklava.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use a Sharp Knife for Cutting

When slicing through the phyllo layers, a sharp knife helps you achieve clean cuts and a beautiful presentation for your baklava.

Keep Phyllo Dough Damp

Phyllo dries out quickly, so keep unused sheets under a damp towel to maintain their pliability while you work.

Warm Syrup on Hot Baklava

Pouring warm syrup over the freshly baked baklava ensures that it absorbs well, enhancing the sweet and sticky texture that makes baklava special.

Try Different Nuts

Mix it up by substituting some of the walnuts with pistachios or almonds for a unique flavor in your baklava!

Be Patient with Cooling

Allow the baklava to cool to room temperature before serving, giving the syrup time to soak into the layers for the ideal texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Martha Stewart Baklava Recipe

Fresh Fruit Salad

A fresh fruit salad can bring a vibrant contrast to the rich baklava flavors.

Try including a mix of berries, melons, and citrus fruits.

For a refreshing twist, you can add a light honey-lime or mint-yogurt dressing.

Greek Butter Cookies (Kourabiedes)

These traditional Greek butter cookies, known as Kourabiedes, pair wonderfully with baklava.

Their crumbly texture and subtle sweetness complement the dessert without overshadowing it.

Greek Coffee

Enjoying Greek coffee alongside baklava is a classic combination.

Its bold flavor provides a nice balance to the sweetness of the dessert.

The coffee’s distinct preparation makes it an interesting addition to your meal.

Cheese Platter with Nuts

A cheese platter featuring a selection of mild cheeses can surprise your guests.

Pair with a mix of nuts like almonds and walnuts to mirror the baklava’s ingredients.

This savory side dish allows for a pleasant variety of textures and tastes.

Light Yogurt Parfait

Create a light yogurt parfait with layers of plain yogurt and a sprinkle of nuts.

Drizzle some honey on top for a harmonious flavor.

This healthy option offers a creamy, yet refreshing companion to your sweet treat.

Variations and Substitutions

Nuts

You might want to experiment with different nuts in your baklava.

Try almonds, pecans, or even a mix of all three.

Each imparts a unique flavor profile that keeps things exciting!

Consider using agave syrup or maple syrup for a different twist.

These alternatives bring a unique sweetness that complements the nuts beautifully.

Use them in place of honey for a distinct flair!

Spices

You can play around with the spices as well.

Adding a pinch of clove or nutmeg can bring a new level of warmth to the dessert.

Adjusting the cinnamon to your taste can make it truly your own!

Citrus Zest

Don’t forget about citrus zest!

Adding a bit of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavors remarkably.

It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference in taste.

How to Store Leftover Baklava

Storage is a breeze, and preserving that perfect bite is key to enjoying your baklava later.

When it comes to leftover baklava, you’ve got some great options to keep it fresh.

Airtight Container

First, grab an airtight container.

Place your baklava inside to prevent it from drying out.

You can store it at room temperature if you’ll finish it within a week.

Refrigeration Tips

If you think it’ll last longer, refrigeration is a smart choice.

Wrap each piece well with plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the container.

This way, your baklava will stay moist and delicious for up to two weeks.

Freezing Method

For an even longer storage option, consider freezing your baklava.

You’ll need to wrap each piece in plastic and then again with aluminum foil before freezing.

Thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overworking the Phyllo Dough

Be gentle with the phyllo dough when preparing your baklava, as overworking it can cause it to become dense and tough.

Instead, brush it lightly with butter or oil and handle it with care.

Your baklava will thank you by staying light and flaky!

Incorrect Baking Temperature

Make sure to monitor your oven’s temperature carefully to avoid uneven baking or undercooked layers.

Using an oven thermometer is a great way to keep things under control.

This small step can make a big difference in your baklava’s texture and appearance.

Improper Cooling Techniques

Not allowing your baklava to cool down before adding the syrup can lead to sogginess, ruining its crisp texture.

Let it rest for a while before completing the final steps.

Your patience will be rewarded with perfect layers and balanced sweetness!