Pecan Delight Baklava with Brandy Syrup
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of this unique Pecan Delight Baklava with Brandy Syrup. This delightful twist on traditional Greek baklava features a generous amount of finely chopped pecans wrapped in delicate layers of flaky phyllo dough, perfectly baked to a golden brown. The special ingredient that elevates this recipe is the rich brandy-infused syrup, which adds a warm depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness to every bite. Ideal for festive occasions or simply as a special treat, this baklava is both a visual and culinary delight. Although the whole cloves on top may be optional, they add a festive touch during the holidays, making this dessert not just delicious but memorable.
N/A
Servings
180
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sugar
2 cups (Granulated)
Water
1 cup (Room temperature)
Liquid Honey
3/4 cup (Honey)
Brandy
2 tablespoons (For syrup)
Fresh Lemon Juice
1 tablespoon (Freshly squeezed)
Cinnamon Stick
1 (3 inch) (For syrup)
Pecans, finely chopped
3 lbs (Chopped finely)
Ground Cinnamon
1 tablespoon (For pecan mixture)
Ground Clove
1 teaspoon (For pecan mixture)
Sugar
1 cup (For pecan mixture)
Ground Cinnamon
1 tablespoon (For pecan mixture)
Ground Clove
1 teaspoon (For pecan mixture)
Frozen Phyllo Dough
1 (16 ounce) package (Thawed)
Unsalted Butter
1 lb. (Melted (no substitutions))
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar, 1 cup of water, honey, brandy, lemon juice, and the cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely (about 1 minute). Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans with 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of clove. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
3
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Brush two 13x9 inch baking pans with melted butter, ensuring they're well-coated.
4
Lay down 8 sheets of phyllo dough in the first pan, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you layer them. Once done, sprinkle 2 cups of the pecan mixture evenly over the phyllo.
5
Top with 3 sheets of phyllo, again brushing each with melted butter. After that, layer another 2 cups of the pecan mixture on top.
6
Repeat this layering process once more with 3 phyllo sheets and another 2 cups of pecan mixture.
7
For the final layer in this pan, add 6 sheets of phyllo, brushing melted butter on all but the top sheet.
8
Repeat the entire layering process using the remaining phyllo dough and pecan mixture in the second baking pan.
9
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the baklava into 3/4-inch diamond shapes. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over the top.
10
For added flavor, place a whole clove in the center of each diamond-shaped piece (optional).
11
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.
12
Once baked, remove from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
13
Allow the baklava to cool completely in the pans on wire racks before cutting again along the diamond lines. Store the cooled baklava in airtight containers at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
108
Fat
183
Carbs
0.25
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pecan Delight Baklava with Brandy Syrup?
It is a unique twist on traditional Greek baklava that features finely chopped pecans and a rich brandy-infused syrup.
What are the main ingredients for the brandy syrup?
The syrup is made from sugar, water, liquid honey, brandy, fresh lemon juice, and a cinnamon stick.
How many pecans do I need for this recipe?
This recipe requires 3 pounds of finely chopped pecans.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) for baking the baklava.
How much butter is required?
You will need 1 pound of melted unsalted butter, and the recipe specifies no substitutions.
Should the syrup be hot or cold when added to the baklava?
The syrup must be cooled completely before being poured over the hot baklava immediately after it comes out of the oven.
How many baking pans does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed to fill two 13x9 inch baking pans.
How do I prepare the pecan mixture?
Combine 3 lbs of chopped pecans with 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of ground cloves.
How many layers of phyllo dough are used at the base?
The process begins with 8 sheets of phyllo dough at the bottom of the pan, each brushed with melted butter.
What is the layering pattern for the middle sections?
After the base, you layer 3 sheets of phyllo followed by 2 cups of the pecan mixture, repeating this process.
How many sheets of phyllo go on the top layer?
The final layer in each pan consists of 6 sheets of phyllo dough.
What shape should the baklava be cut into?
Use a sharp knife to cut the baklava into 3/4-inch diamond shapes before baking.
Are the whole cloves necessary?
Placing a whole clove in the center of each diamond is optional but adds a festive touch and extra flavor.
How long should the baklava bake?
Bake for 1 hour or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
What type of phyllo dough should I use?
Use one 16-ounce package of frozen phyllo dough that has been thawed.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 180 calories according to the recipe data.
How much honey is in the syrup?
The brandy syrup includes 3/4 cup of liquid honey.
What spices are in the nut mixture?
The pecan mixture is spiced with ground cinnamon and ground cloves.
How should the finished baklava be stored?
Store the cooled baklava in airtight containers at room temperature.
Do I need to grease the pans?
Yes, you should brush the two 13x9 inch baking pans with melted butter to ensure they are well-coated.
When should I perform the final cut?
Allow the baklava to cool completely in the pans before cutting again along the pre-baked diamond lines.
What is the fat content per serving?
The nutritional information lists 108 grams of fat per serving.
How much brandy is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of brandy to be included in the syrup.
What is the carbohydrate count?
There are approximately 183 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is fresh lemon juice required?
Yes, the recipe specifies 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice for the syrup.
What makes the baklava golden brown and crisp?
The combination of the 300°F oven temperature, the buttered phyllo layers, and the 1-hour baking time ensures a crisp finish.
How long do I boil the syrup?
Bring the syrup mixture to a gentle boil and stir constantly for about 1 minute until the sugar dissolves.
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
While traditional baklava uses walnuts or pistachios, this specific 'Pecan Delight' recipe is centered around the flavor of pecans.
Is this a good holiday dessert?
Yes, the recipe description highlights it as an ideal treat for festive occasions and holidays.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 14 ingredients used to make the baklava and the brandy syrup.