Almond Baklava

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Almond Baklava.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   In a medium saucepan, blend together 2 cups of sugar, 2 cups of water, 1 cup of honey, a cinnamon stick, a quarter of a lemon, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

3. Step 3

   Bring this delightful concoction to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, skimming off any foam that appears.

4. Step 4

   Once done, set the syrup aside to cool and let the flavors meld.

5. Step 5

   In a small bowl, combine chopped almonds with 2 tablespoons of sugar, a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and half a teaspoon of ground cloves, then set this fragrant nut mixture aside.

6. Step 6

   Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by brushing the bottom with melted butter.

7. Step 7

   Since each sheet of phyllo dough is larger than the pan, cut each sheet in half to create two manageable pieces.

8. Step 8

   Lay one sheet of phyllo in the pan and generously brush it with melted butter.

9. Step 9

   Repeat this layering for a total of 8 sheets, ensuring each one is lovingly buttered.

10. Step 10

    Sprinkle about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo, then cover it with 4 more buttered sheets of phyllo.

11. Step 11

    Continue this delightful layering, adding the nut mixture after every 4 sheets, until you have 8 sheets left for the final layer.

12. Step 12

    For the top, use the remaining 8 sheets of phyllo, buttering each one as you go.

13. Step 13

    Before buttering the last sheet, tuck in any loose edges to create a neat finish.

14. Step 14

    Gently press down on the layers with your palms to compact them, then drizzle any leftover melted butter over the top.

15. Step 15

    With a large knife, cut the baklava into diamond shapes by making 5 strips lengthwise about half an inch deep, followed by diagonal cuts.

16. Step 16

    Bake your creation in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown.

17. Step 17

    As soon as it’s out of the oven, pour the cooled syrup over the hot baklava, allowing it to soak in all that sweetness.

18. Step 18

    Let it cool completely before cutting through the diamond shapes to serve.

19. Step 19

    Enjoy this sweet, nutty masterpiece that’s sure to impress!.