Mini Baklava Recipe

Introduction

Mini Baklava is a delightful bite-sized version of the beloved traditional Middle Eastern dessert. Known for its crispy, flaky layers of phyllo dough, buttery filling, and rich syrupy sweetness, baklava is a treat that never fails to impress. The mini version offers the same irresistible combination of flavors and textures, but in a convenient, portion-controlled form, perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence.

These miniature treats are made with layers of thin phyllo dough, a mixture of finely chopped nuts, and a rich, honey-sweetened syrup that soaks into every crevice. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that combines the crunch of the dough with the soft, sweet filling. Whether you’re new to making baklava or a seasoned baker, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create these miniature delights in your own kitchen.

Mini Baklava is perfect for those who want all the goodness of the original baklava but in a smaller, more manageable size. They’re ideal for holiday celebrations, potlucks, and dessert tables, or even as a special treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. This recipe is simple, yet impressive, and will leave everyone asking for more. Let’s dive into the process of making these delicious Mini Baklava!

Why You’ll Love Mini Baklava

• Deliciously Sweet and Buttery: Mini Baklava is an irresistible combination of buttery, flaky phyllo dough and sweet honey-sugar syrup. The sweetness from the syrup, combined with the rich filling, makes each bite utterly decadent.
• Perfect Portion Size: The mini versions of this dessert are the perfect size for individual servings, making them great for parties, potlucks, and events where people want a small but satisfying dessert.
• Crispy, Flaky Texture: The layers of phyllo dough are crisped to perfection, providing a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft nut filling and the sticky syrup. Each bite is a combination of textures that makes the treat feel luxurious.
• Customizable Nut Filling: While traditional baklava uses walnuts or pistachios, you can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes by using a mix of different nuts, such as almonds, cashews, or hazelnuts.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Despite being made with just a few ingredients, Mini Baklava delivers big, bold flavors. The combination of phyllo dough, nuts, butter, and syrup results in a rich dessert that’s as impressive as it is delicious.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Mini Baklava makes an excellent addition to dessert tables at holidays, family gatherings, or any special event. Its elegant presentation and sweet, nutty flavor will make it a crowd favorite every time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 mini baklava pieces
• Calories per Serving: Around 150-180 calories per piece, depending on the ingredients and portion size.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150-180 kcal
• Fat: 8-10g
• Carbohydrates: 20-22g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 12-14g

Ingredients

For the Mini Baklava:

• 1 package (16 ounces) phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 ½ cups mixed nuts (such as walnuts, pistachios, and almonds), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Syrup:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 strip lemon peel (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Nut Filling

To begin making your Mini Baklava, start by preparing the nut filling. In a large bowl, combine the mixed nuts, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar. You can use a combination of walnuts, pistachios, almonds, or any other nuts you prefer, but walnuts and pistachios are the most common choices for baklava. Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Set the bowl aside.

The cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic touch to the filling, complementing the rich flavor of the nuts. If you’d like to experiment with additional spices, a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg can be a fun variation.

2. Prepare the Phyllo Dough

Next, get your phyllo dough ready. Phyllo dough can be a bit delicate, so be sure to handle it carefully. Unroll the thawed phyllo dough and cover it with a damp kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out while you work with it.

Using a sharp knife, cut the phyllo dough sheets into smaller squares or rectangles, depending on the size of your mini baklava. You can also choose to cut the dough into circles using a cookie cutter for a more uniform and visually pleasing shape. The dough should fit into the mini muffin cups you’re using.

3. Assemble the Mini Baklava

Now, it’s time to start assembling the Mini Baklava. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a mini muffin tin by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.

Take one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it generously with the melted butter. Place it into one of the muffin tin cups. Repeat the process, layering 4-5 sheets of buttered phyllo dough in each muffin cup, creating a solid, layered base.

Once you’ve added the layers of phyllo dough, add a small spoonful of the nut filling (about 1-2 teaspoons) on top of the dough. Press down lightly to make sure the filling sticks. Continue layering with 2-3 more sheets of buttered phyllo dough, adding another small spoonful of the nut mixture, and repeating the process until the muffin tin cups are filled.

When finished, each muffin cup should be filled with several layers of phyllo dough and a hearty amount of nut filling, all topped off with layers of phyllo dough.

4. Bake the Mini Baklava

Place the mini muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake the Mini Baklava for 30-40 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the baklava as it bakes, and rotate the tin halfway through to ensure even baking.

The phyllo dough should become beautifully crisp and flaky, while the nuts inside soften and meld together. The key is to bake them until they are perfectly golden, as overbaking can cause the dough to become too hard or burnt.

5. Prepare the Syrup

While the baklava is baking, you can prepare the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. If you’d like, you can add a strip of lemon peel and a teaspoon of lemon juice for added flavor and freshness.

Remove the syrup from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set it aside to cool slightly while the baklava bakes.

6. Soak the Mini Baklava

Once the Mini Baklava is golden brown and crisp, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, using a spoon or small ladle, drizzle the warm syrup evenly over the baklava, making sure to cover each piece completely. The syrup will soak into the layers of phyllo dough, creating the signature sticky, sweet finish.

Let the baklava cool for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the syrup to absorb fully. As it cools, the syrup will crystallize slightly, giving the baklava that perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

7. Serve the Mini Baklava

Once the Mini Baklava has cooled and absorbed the syrup, it’s ready to serve. Gently remove each piece from the muffin tin and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with finely chopped pistachios or walnuts if desired, for a decorative touch and extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Mini Baklava

• Use Fresh Phyllo Dough: Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so it’s important to keep it covered with a damp towel as you work. Use fresh, high-quality phyllo dough for the best results.
• Don’t Skip the Butter: Be generous when brushing the phyllo dough with butter. The butter is what gives the baklava its signature flaky, golden texture. If you’re looking for a slightly lighter version, you can use a combination of butter and olive oil.
• Toast the Nuts for Extra Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the nuts in a dry skillet before chopping them. Toasting brings out the natural oils and enhances the overall taste of the filling.
• Make the Syrup in Advance: You can prepare the syrup in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This will save time when assembling and baking the baklava.
• Let the Baklava Cool Completely: Allow the Mini Baklava to cool before serving. This gives the syrup time to fully soak in and sets the baklava’s texture.

Variations of Mini Baklava

• Chocolate Mini Baklava: For a chocolaty twist, add a layer of melted dark chocolate between the phyllo dough and nut filling. The chocolate will add richness and depth to the traditional baklava.
• Nut-Free Mini Baklava: If you need to make a nut-free version, you can replace the nut filling with shredded coconut or even a mix of seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
• Spiced Mini Baklava: Add a touch of cardamom, nutmeg, or allspice to the nut filling to give the baklava a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
• Mini Baklava with Dried Fruits: For a slightly different take, add dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or cranberries to the nut filling. The fruit will add a burst of sweetness and a chewy texture.

Storage and Shelf Life

Mini Baklava is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. The syrup will help keep the baklava moist and sticky, so they will stay delicious for several days.

To freeze Mini Baklava, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen pieces to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Frozen baklava can be stored for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Mini Baklava

While Mini Baklava is delightful on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages and sides:

• Mint Tea: A traditional pairing with baklava is a glass of hot mint tea. The refreshing, slightly herbal flavor of the tea contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the baklava.
• Coffee or Espresso: Mini Baklava pairs excellently with a cup of strong coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the baklava.
• Yogurt or Ice Cream: For a creamy contrast, serve the Mini Baklava with a scoop of vanilla or Greek yogurt. The tangy yogurt complements the rich flavors of the baklava.
• Fruit Platter: A fresh fruit platter with berries or citrus can provide a refreshing and colorful contrast to the rich sweetness of the baklava.

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Conclusion

Mini Baklava is a perfect dessert for anyone who loves the rich flavors and textures of traditional baklava but in a more convenient, bite-sized form. The crispy phyllo dough, the nutty filling, and the sweet, sticky syrup make these treats irresistible. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion, holiday celebration, or just because, these Mini Baklava will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With the helpful tips, variations, and storage ideas, you can easily make this dessert at home and enjoy it for days to come.