Baklava soaked in syrup, stuffed with nuts and topped with pistachios

Step 1: Prepare the Nuts

1. Mix Nuts: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped mixed nuts with ground cinnamon. This mixture will be the filling for your baklava.

Step 2: Prepare the Filo Dough

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Butter the Pan: Brush a 9×13 inch baking pan with some of the melted butter.
3. Layer the Filo: Place one sheet of filo dough in the pan and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process until you have layered about 8 sheets, brushing each with butter.

Step 3: Add the Nut Mixture

1. Add Nuts: Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the top filo layer.
2. Continue Layering: Cover the nuts with two more sheets of filo, each brushed with butter. Repeat the process of adding nuts and layering filo (two sheets at a time), ending with a top layer of about 6-8 sheets of filo. Remember to brush each sheet with butter.

Step 4: Cut the Baklava

1. Cut Into Pieces: Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, ensuring you cut through all the layers.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake: Place the baklava in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the filo is golden and crisp.

Step 6: Prepare the Syrup

1. Combine Ingredients: While the baklava is baking, combine water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Boil and Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon peel.
3. Cool: Let the syrup cool slightly.

Step 7: Soak the Baklava

1. Pour Syrup Over Hot Baklava: As soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, evenly pour the slightly cooled syrup over the hot baklava.
2. Let It Soak: Allow the baklava to fully absorb the syrup and cool at room temperature. This may take several hours or overnight.

Step 8: Add the Topping

1. Top with Pistachios: Just before serving, sprinkle the finely chopped pistachios over the top of the baklava for a beautiful presentation and added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Baklava

• Keep Filo Covered: Filo dough dries out quickly. Keep the unused sheets covered with a damp towel while working.
• Butter Generously: Don’t skimp on the butter between the filo layers, as it helps achieve a golden, crispy texture.
• Cut Before Baking: Always cut your baklava before baking to make serving easier and to ensure the syrup soaks through every layer.
• Pour Syrup on Hot Baklava: For best absorption, the syrup should be cool and poured over the baklava as soon as it comes out of the oven.

Enjoy your homemade baklava soaked in syrup, stuffed with nuts, and topped with pistachios, a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion!