Christmas Baklava Recipe

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Make sure the phyllo dough is thawed according to the package instructions.
2. Prepare Nut Filling: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped mixed nuts, 1/2 cup sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves. Mix well and set aside.
3. Assemble Layers: Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Lay a sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat with 7 more sheets, layering each one and brushing with butter.
4. Add Nut Filling: Sprinkle a generous layer of the nut mixture over the buttered phyllo layers.
5. Continue Layering: Add 8 more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter. Repeat the process of adding nut filling and layering phyllo until all the nut mixture is used, finishing with a top layer of 8 sheets of buttered phyllo.
6. Cut into Diamond Shapes: With a sharp knife, carefully cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. This will make it easier to serve after baking.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
8. Make Syrup: While the baklava is baking, combine water, 1 cup sugar, honey, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Pour Syrup Over Baklava: Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the hot syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Allow the syrup to soak in and cool completely.
10. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish the baklava with pomegranate seeds for a festive touch. Allow the baklava to cool and set before serving.

Note: Baklava can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.

Enjoy your Christmas Baklava!