This holiday season, elevate your dessert table with Christmas Baklava, a sweet treat that combines the delicate layers of flaky phyllo dough, a rich cinnamon-spiced nut filling, and a luscious honey glaze. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a standout dish for any gathering.

Whether you’re entertaining family or sharing treats with friends, baklava’s festive appearance and make-ahead convenience make it a holiday favorite. Pair it with coffee or tea, and let this indulgent dessert add a touch of magic to your celebrations.

Why Christmas Baklava is a Must-Have

Elegant and Festive: The golden layers and glossy finish make this dessert a show-stopper.
Rich and Flavorful: A perfect balance of sweet honey, warm spices, and nutty crunch.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Baklava tastes even better the next day as the syrup fully soaks in.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

½ pound chopped pecans
½ pound chopped walnuts
2–3 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Pastry:

1 pound phyllo dough, thawed
1½ cups butter, melted

For the Syrup:

1 cup sugar
½ cup honey
1 cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Nut Filling

In a large bowl, combine the chopped pecans, walnuts, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 2: Layer the Phyllo Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
Layer one sheet of phyllo dough into the dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat until you’ve layered 8 sheets, brushing each one with butter.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Spread a thin, even layer of the nut mixture over the buttered phyllo dough.
Cover with another 6–8 sheets of phyllo, brushing each with butter.
Repeat the process of layering nuts and phyllo dough until all the filling is used, finishing with 8 buttered phyllo sheets on top.

Step 4: Cut and Bake

Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, ensuring you cut through all layers.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.

Step 5: Prepare the Syrup

While the baklava bakes, combine sugar, honey, and water in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

Pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot baklava, ensuring it soaks through all the layers.
Let the baklava cool completely before serving to allow the syrup to set.

Tips for Perfect Baklava

Work Quickly with Phyllo Dough: Keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
Customizable Nuts: Swap pecans and walnuts for pistachios or almonds for a unique flavor profile.
Adjust Sweetness: Use less syrup or drizzle it sparingly for a lighter, less sweet dessert.
Pre-Cut Before Baking: Cutting the baklava before baking ensures clean, neat slices without cracking the top layers.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for the Holidays

Christmas Baklava is more than just a dessert—it’s a holiday tradition. The golden, flaky layers paired with a sweet and nutty filling make it a festive favorite that’s perfect for sharing. Its make-ahead convenience and ability to stay fresh for days make it ideal for gift-giving, potlucks, or as the centerpiece of your dessert table.

Serve it alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea, and let the buttery, spiced flavors of baklava bring joy to your holiday celebrations.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store baklava in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked baklava for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an additional 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Serve baklava at room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.