12 Decadent Baklava Recipes You Need to Try (Warning: #7 is Addictive!)
May 24, 2025 | by Roz L
Baklava is that scrumptious dessert that transports you straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East and North Africa where flavors dance in the air. Imagine layers of flaky pastry, oozing with warm honey and nuts, melting in your mouth. It’s a sweet treat that has captured the hearts (and taste buds!) of many. From traditional pistachio baklava to innovative chocolate versions, each recipe showcases the beauty and diversity of this beloved dessert. Let’s dive into these 12 decadent baklava recipes that will satisfy your sweet cravings and impress your friends at the next gathering!
Get ready to roll up your sleeves because each of these recipes is as rewarding to make as they are to eat!
1. Traditional Pistachio Baklava
Nothing beats the classic! This Traditional Pistachio Baklava is a must-try for any baklava lover. The buttery layers of phyllo dough embrace a generous filling of finely chopped pistachios, giving it that beautiful green hue. The best part? A drizzle of homemade rosewater syrup adds an alluring aroma that takes it over the top.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 24
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 250 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 28g
– Protein: 3g
– Sugar: 10g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 2 cups pistachios, finely ground
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp rosewater
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a 9×13 inch baking pan with melted butter.
3. Layer 10 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter.
4. Mix ground pistachios and cinnamon, then spread over the phyllo layers.
5. Layer 5 more sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
6. Cut into diamond shapes before placing in the oven.
7. Bake for 40 minutes until golden brown.
8. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and rosewater, simmer for 10 minutes.
9. Pour syrup over baklava while hot. Let it cool and serve.
– Ensure the phyllo dough stays covered to prevent drying.
– For an extra twist, add a bit of ground cardamom to the nut mix.
2. Almond and Honey Baklava Rolls
These Almond and Honey Baklava Rolls bring a delightful spin to the classic baklava with their roll shape! The combination of tender, crunchy almonds wrapped in flaky pastry and soaked in a honey syrup is simply irresistible. This variation is perfect for those who love a bit of innovation while still honoring traditional flavors.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 20
– Prep Time: 25 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 230 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 14g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Protein: 3g
– Sugar: 9g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 2 cups almonds, finely chopped
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking sheet with melted butter.
3. Layer three sheets of phyllo, brushing each with butter.
4. Spread a thin layer of chopped almonds across the length of the dough.
5. Roll tightly into a cylinder and pin to seal, then cut into 2-inch pieces.
6. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until golden.
7. In a small pot, combine honey, sugar, and water, bringing to a boil to create syrup.
8. Pour syrup over hot rolls and let it absorb for at least an hour before serving.
– Add a splash of orange blossom water for a fragrant twist.
– Store in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
3. Chocolate Hazelnut Baklava
For all the chocolate lovers out there, this Chocolate Hazelnut Baklava is a dream come true! The rich chocolate flavor, combined with crunchy hazelnuts, creates an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. A touch of sea salt on top balances the sweetness beautifully, making each bite an unforgettable experience.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 270 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 4g
– Sugar: 12g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 1 cup hazelnuts, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking dish with butter.
3. Layer 8 sheets of phyllo, brushing each with butter.
4. In a bowl, combine chopped hazelnuts with melted chocolate. Spread evenly over the phyllo.
5. Layer 5 sheets of phyllo on top, brushing with butter.
6. Cut into diamond shapes and bake for 35 minutes.
7. Make a syrup by boiling sugar and water, then pour over the hot baklava. Sprinkle with sea salt.
– Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
– Allow the baklava to cool before adding the syrup for a crispier crust.
4. Walnut and Cinnamon Baklava
This Walnut and Cinnamon Baklava is a warm hug in dessert form. The sweet and nutty combination of walnuts and a hint of cinnamon creates a comforting flavor profile that will remind you of cozy gatherings. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, this baklava is as appealing to taste as it is to see.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 18
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 240 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 27g
– Protein: 3g
– Sugar: 9g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a 9×13 baking pan with butter.
3. Layer 10 sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
4. Mix walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, then spread over phyllo.
5. Top with 5 more layers of phyllo, brushing each with butter.
6. Cut into diamond shapes before baking for 45 minutes.
7. Prepare syrup with sugar, water, and simmer until it thickens. Pour over hot baklava.
– Allow the baklava to soak in syrup overnight for better flavor absorption.
– Keep a close eye on your baklava as it bakes for the perfect golden color.
5. Coconut and Almond Baklava
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this Coconut and Almond Baklava. The sweet coconut flakes combined with crunchy almonds create an exotic twist on the traditional recipe. The final touch of coconut syrup brings it all together, making it a delightful treat that feels like a vacation on a plate!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 16
– Prep Time: 35 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 220 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 27g
– Protein: 3g
– Sugar: 8g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 2 cups shredded coconut
– 1 cup almonds, finely chopped
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
3. Layer the phyllo dough, brushing each with butter and layering 10 sheets.
4. Mix together shredded coconut and chopped almonds, then spread evenly on top of the phyllo.
5. Top with 5 more layers of phyllo.
6. Cut into squares and bake for 40 minutes until golden.
7. Make a syrup by boiling sugar and coconut milk, then pour over hot baklava.
– Opt for unsweetened coconut flakes to control the sweetness level.
– Experiment with different nuts like macadamia for an even nuttier flavor.
6. Orange Blossom Baklava
If you’re looking for something that smells as good as it tastes, this Orange Blossom Baklava fits the bill perfectly! The subtle floral notes of orange blossom water combined with the rich nutty flavors make this baklava uniquely delightful. It’s the perfect dessert to serve at a dinner party that will leave everyone impressed and asking for more.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 260 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 31g
– Protein: 4g
– Sugar: 11g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp orange blossom water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
3. Layer 8 sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
4. Mix walnuts and sugar, spread over phyllo.
5. Top with another 5 sheets of phyllo, brushing with butter.
6. Cut into diamond shapes and bake for 35 minutes.
7. Prepare syrup with sugar, water, and orange blossom water, boiling until thickened, then pour over hot baklava.
– Use fresh orange blossom water for the best flavor.
– Let the baklava rest for a few hours to absorb the syrup fully.
7. Nutella Baklava (Warning: Addictive!)
Get ready for a serious treat with Nutella Baklava! This recipe takes the classic baklava and throws in some of that beloved chocolate-hazelnut goodness we all crave. Each layer of phyllo dough is spread generously with Nutella, then baked to perfection. What emerges is a rich, gooey, and utterly addictive dessert that will have you going back for seconds (or thirds!).
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 16
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 300 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 32g
– Protein: 4g
– Sugar: 13g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 1 cup Nutella
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking pan with melted butter.
3. Layer 10 sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
4. Spread Nutella evenly over the phyllo.
5. Layer an additional 5 sheets of phyllo, brushing with butter.
6. Cut into diamond shapes, then bake for 30 minutes.
7. Prepare syrup with sugar and water, boiling until thick, then pour over hot baklava.
– Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
– Use a pastry brush to get an even spread of Nutella.
8. Apricot and Pistachio Baklava
For a unique fruity twist, try this Apricot and Pistachio Baklava! The sweet and slightly tart apricots combined with crunchy pistachios offer a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. This recipe brings summer vibes to your kitchen, making it perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself to something special.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 240 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 27g
– Protein: 4g
– Sugar: 10g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
3. Layer 8 sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
4. Mix chopped apricots and pistachios, spread over phyllo.
5. Top with 5 more layers of phyllo, brushing with butter.
6. Cut into diamond shapes and bake for 35 minutes.
7. Prepare syrup with sugar and water, boil until thickened, then pour over hot baklava.
– Use fresh apricots when in season for a sweeter flavor.
– Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the nut mix for extra warmth.
9. Caramelized Fig Baklava
This Caramelized Fig Baklava is an exquisite twist that elevates traditional flavors with the unique taste of figs. The figs are caramelized with a bit of honey and mixed with walnuts for a luscious filling. The result is a fascinating baklava that is perfect for serving during special occasions or when you want to impress guests with something truly special.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 14
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 260 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 16g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 4g
– Sugar: 11g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 1 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
3. Layer 10 sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
4. Cook figs with honey until caramelized, mix with walnuts. Spread over phyllo.
5. Top with 5 more layers of phyllo, brushing each with butter.
6. Cut into diamond shapes and bake for 40 minutes.
7. Prepare syrup with honey and water, boiling until thickened, then pour over hot baklava.
– Allow the baklava to cool fully before serving to enhance the flavors.
– Pair with a dollop of yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
10. Spiced Apple Baklava
This Spiced Apple Baklava is an autumn-inspired favorite that combines the flavors of fresh apples with warming spices. The layering of phyllo dough provides a crispy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft, spiced apple filling. It’s a cozy dessert that invites you to savor each bite and feels like a warm hug in the fall.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 12
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 220 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Protein: 3g
– Sugar: 9g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 3 cups apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
3. Layer 10 sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
4. Toss apples with sugar and cinnamon, then spread over phyllo.
5. Top with 5 more layers of phyllo, brushing each with butter.
6. Cut into squares and bake for 40 minutes.
7. Prepare syrup by boiling sugar and water until thickened, pour over hot baklava.
– Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
– Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cloves, for a unique flavor.
11. Date and Walnut Baklava
This Date and Walnut Baklava is a decadent creation that emphasizes the natural sweetness of dates. The rich, sticky filling of chopped dates and walnuts creates a unique flavor that resonates well with the crispy phyllo layers. This baklava is a delightful dessert that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, making it a great companion for any gathering.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 15
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 40 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
– Calories: Approx. 250 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 29g
– Protein: 4g
– Sugar: 10g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 2 cups dates, pitted and chopped
– 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
3. Layer 10 sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
4. Combine chopped dates and walnuts, spread over phyllo.
5. Top with 5 more layers of phyllo, brushing with butter.
6. Cut into diamond shapes and bake for 40 minutes.
7. Prepare syrup with sugar and water, boil until thickened, pour over hot baklava.
– Use Medjool dates for a richer flavor.
– Serve with a side of yogurt for a creamy balance.
12. Savory Baklava with Cheese
Yes, you read that right! This Savory Baklava with Cheese is a unique take on the traditional sweetness of baklava. Filled with a mix of feta and mozzarella cheese, it’s a delightful appetizer that combines the crispy layers of phyllo with creamy, melted cheese inside. Perfect for a twist on a classic or for those who enjoy both sweet and savory!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 10
– Prep Time: 30 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: Approx. 280 per piece
Nutrition Information:
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Protein: 6g
– Sugar: 2g
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
3. Layer 10 sheets of phyllo, buttering each.
4. Mix feta and mozzarella, then spread evenly over the phyllo.
5. Top with 5 more layers of phyllo, brushing with butter.
6. Cut into diamond shapes and bake for 30 minutes until golden.
7. Serve warm with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad.
– Add herbs like dill or parsley to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
– This savory baklava can be served as a unique starter at any gathering.
Conclusion
Baklava is a versatile dessert that can be tailored to suit any taste. From traditional flavors to modern twists, there’s a baklava recipe for everyone. Whether you’re preparing a feast or just treating yourself, these recipes are a great starting point for your culinary adventures. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in these sweet delights!
Don’t forget to share your favorites and inspire others to join in the baklava fun!
