Worldly Indulgence: Hazelnut Baklava with Cardamon Syrup
This holiday season, treat your guests to a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Layers of flaky phyllo pastry, filled with spiced BC-grown hazelnuts, and drizzled with fragrant cardamom syrup make this baklava an unforgettable centrepiece for any celebration.
Ingredients
For the Baklava:
1 package phyllo pastry (thawed as per package instructions)
1 1/2 cup BC-grown hazelnuts, finely chopped
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup melted butter or ghee (for brushing the phyllo)
For the Cardamon Syrup:
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon ground cardamom (or 4 whole cardamom pods, crushed)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
Prepare the Cardamon Syrup:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, honey, and cardamom over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract, and let it cool completely.
Prepare the Hazelnut Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the chopped hazelnuts, cinnamon, cloves, and sugar. Set aside.
Assemble the Baklava:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Layer 8–10 sheets of phyllo pastry, brushing each sheet with melted butter before adding the next.
- Evenly spread 1/3 of the hazelnut filling over the top layer.
- Repeat the process: add 6 sheets of buttered phyllo pastry, spread another 1/3 of the hazelnut filling, and repeat once more.
- Finish with a final layer of 8–10 sheets of buttered phyllo pastry.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, making sure to cut through all the layers.
Bake the Baklava
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.
- Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the cooled cardamom syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
- Let the baklava cool completely, allowing the syrup to soak in.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of finely chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch.
- Serve at room temperature and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Notes:
Keep Phyllo Moist: Cover unused phyllo sheets with a damp kitchen towel while assembling to prevent drying.
Even Syrup Distribution: Pour the syrup over the baklava while it’s still hot for maximum absorption.
Storage: Store baklava in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Perfect For: Holiday gatherings, Diwali, Eid or other festive celebrations