Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 g salt (about 1/2 teaspoon)
• 4 tablespoons oil
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

• 1 lb finely ground walnuts
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2 cups clarified butter, melted

For the Syrup

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine salt, oil, vinegar, and water. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide dough into small balls and roll each one into very thin sheets.
4. Brush a baking dish generously with melted clarified butter.
5. Layer several sheets of dough into the pan, brushing each layer lightly with butter.
6. Sprinkle a layer of ground walnuts mixed with cinnamon.
7. Continue layering dough and walnut filling until all ingredients are used, finishing with several buttered dough layers on top.
8. Cut baklava into diamond or square shapes and place a whole walnut or almond on each piece if desired.
9. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes until deep golden brown and crisp.
10. Meanwhile, combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and honey in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
11. Pour warm syrup over the hot baklava immediately after baking.
12. Allow baklava to cool completely before serving so the syrup fully absorbs.

Helpful Tips

• Keep unused dough covered while working so it does not dry out.
• Pour warm syrup over hot baklava for the perfect texture.
• Baklava tastes even better the next day after the flavors settle.