A Sweet Discovery
Simple Vegan Baklava one of my favorite dessert and I still remember the first time I tasted baklava. It was at a cozy little café with colorful decor. The rich aroma of nuts and spices filled the air as I took my first bite. The layers of crispy filo dough melted in my mouth, and the sweet syrup with a hint of rosewater made my taste buds dance. I knew I had to try making it myself, but I wanted to create a version that everyone could enjoy, so I decided to make Simple Vegan Baklava.
Preparing the Ingredients
I gathered all the ingredients I needed. I had a big bag of walnuts, some fragrant spices like cinnamon and cardamom, and, of course, the crispy filo dough. As I chopped the walnuts and mixed in the spices, I felt excited about how it would all come together. The sweet syrup was bubbling on the stove, filling my kitchen with its lovely scent. I couldn’t wait to pour it over the baklava once it was baked. It was like I was bringing a piece of the café home with me.
Layer by Layer
When it was time to assemble the baklava, I took my time layering the filo dough. Each sheet needed a brush of olive oil to keep it flaky and crispy. I felt like an artist, carefully arranging the layers and spreading the nut mixture. The best part was pouring the cooled syrup over the hot baklava once it was done baking. I watched as it soaked in, creating a beautiful glossy finish. I could hardly wait for it to cool down before tasting it!
A Delicious Surprise
Finally, after letting it rest, I cut the baklava into squares and plated it beautifully. I sprinkled some crushed pistachios and rose petals on top for that extra touch. When I took my first bite, I was overjoyed! The flavors blended perfectly, and I felt proud of my creation. Sharing it with my friends and family made it even more special. This Simple Vegan Baklava was not just a dessert; it was a memory I would cherish and share with others for years to come.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Simple Vegan Baklava
- Ensure your filo dough is completely thawed before use. Keep it covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from drying out.
- For an extra flavor boost, toast the walnuts lightly before chopping them. This enhances their nutty aroma and adds depth to the baklava.
- Always allow the syrup to cool completely before pouring it over the hot baklava. This contrast helps maintain the crispiness of the filo layers.
- When layering the filo dough, brush each sheet with olive oil to create a flaky texture. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.
- For an elegant presentation, serve the baklava with a side of coconut yogurt or fresh berries. This adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the baklava.
- Feel free to experiment with the spices in the nut mixture. Adding a touch of nutmeg or ginger can give a unique twist to the traditional flavor profile.
- Store any leftover baklava in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating it, as this can make the layers soggy.
Simple Vegan Baklava
Dive into the world of delightful flavors with this Simple Vegan Baklava! This easy-to-follow recipe brings together the rich taste of walnuts and the aromatic hint of rosewater, all wrapped in crispy filo dough. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, this baklava is a must-try for anyone looking to explore vegan desserts. With a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor, it’s a dessert that promises to be unforgettable. Channel your inner celebrity chef and whip up this delicious treat today!
8
pieces20
minutes30
minutes450
kcal2
hours2
hours50
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- For the Syrup
2½ cups white sugar
a dash of salt
1 cup water
1 tbsp floral rosewater
- For the Baklava
1 pound filo pastry sheets
1 pound chopped walnuts
2 tsp fragrant cardamom powder
2 tsp warm cinnamon powder
½ tsp aromatic clove powder
1 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
- To Decorate
Optional: finely crushed pistachios
Optional: a sprinkle of edible dried rose petals
Directions
- Syrup Preparation – In a small pot, combine sugar and salt evenly. Pour water over to cover the sugar completely. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring until sugar dissolves (about 5 minutes). Add rosewater, cover with a lid, and simmer on low for 2 minutes. Cool at room temperature before refrigerating until thickened like honey.
- Nut Mixture – In a food processor, pulse walnuts with cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves until finely chopped but not pasty (about 1 minute).
- Baking – Cut baklava into desired shapes before baking. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the top layer. Bake for 30 minutes until lightly golden.
- Finishing Touches – Once baked, pour cooled syrup evenly over baklava. Sprinkle with pistachios and rose petals if desired. Let it rest for at least 2 hours before serving.
Equipment
- food processor
- baking sheet
- mixing bowls
Notes
- For a perfect baklava texture, ensure the syrup is completely cooled before pouring over the hot pastry; this helps maintain crispiness. Serve with a dollop of coconut yogurt or alongside fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. Feel free to experiment by adding orange zest or a hint of vanilla to the nut mixture for additional flavor depth.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Vitamin A: 0IU
- Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQ- Simple Vegan Baklava
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes! Almonds, pecans, or a mix of your favorite nuts can be used in place of walnuts. Just ensure they are finely chopped.
What can I substitute for rosewater?
If you don’t have rosewater, orange blossom water is a great alternative. You can also use vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
Is it possible to make baklava gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free filo dough, which is available at many grocery stores. Just check the packaging to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
How can I tell when the baklava is done baking?
The baklava is done when the top is golden brown and crisp. You can also check the edges; they should be slightly darker than the center.
Can I make baklava ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the baklava a day in advance. Just pour the cooled syrup over it and let it rest overnight for the flavors to meld. This also helps the baklava maintain its crunchiness.
