Christmas Baklava

Christmas baklava is a festive twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert. Layers of buttery phyllo dough, spiced nuts, and a sweet syrup come together to create a rich, crunchy treat. With warm holiday spices like cinnamon and cloves, this baklava is perfect for Christmas parties, gifts, or holiday dessert tables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp, buttery layers with a rich nut filling.

• Infused with holiday spices for a warm, festive flavor.

• Can be made ahead, making it great for holiday planning.

• Perfect as a homemade edible gift.

• Simple ingredients with an impressive result.

Ingredients

For the Baklava

• 1 package phyllo dough, thawed

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 cups walnuts or pistachios, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground cloves

• ½ cup sugar

For the Syrup

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup water

• ½ cup honey

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 4 whole cloves

• Peel of 1 orange

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a bowl, mix chopped nuts, sugar, cinnamon, and ground cloves.

3. Layer 8 sheets of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing each sheet lightly with melted butter.

4. Sprinkle a thin layer of nut mixture over the dough.

5. Add 4 more buttered sheets of phyllo, then another layer of nuts.

6. Repeat until all nuts are used, finishing with 8 buttered sheets on top.

7. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking.

8. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until golden brown and crisp.

9. While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. Combine sugar, water, honey, cinnamon stick, cloves, and orange peel in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Remove cinnamon, cloves, and peel.

10. Pour hot syrup evenly over the baked baklava as soon as it comes out of the oven.

11. Let the baklava cool completely to absorb the syrup before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.

• Use a mix of nuts like almonds, pecans, and pistachios for extra flavor.

• Add a splash of orange or lemon juice to the syrup for brightness.

• Store at room temperature for up to a week in an airtight container.

• Drizzle with melted chocolate before serving for a festive touch.

Serving Ideas

Serve Christmas baklava on a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies and cakes. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift when packaged in festive tins or boxes.

This holiday version of baklava combines classic flavors with Christmas spices, creating a crunchy, sweet, and fragrant dessert that feels special and celebratory.