Baklava is a layered phyllo pastry dessert popular across the Middle East and in Greece. Its multicultural heritage has resulted in many different variations of the dessert. Here are a few to try.
Carrot slice baklava, with its 30-layer phyllo dough, offers a unique triangular shape. It stands out for its buttery flavors and can be found in both dry and traditional forms.
This Turkish baklava incorporates cream (kaymak) into its layers, offering a subtly sweet and earthy taste. Traditionally served with ice cream.
A milky Turkish baklava, incorporates crushed almonds or hazelnuts with a milk and sugar mixture instead of syrup. It was developed during a pistachio shortage in the 1980s.
Palace baklava, or saray burmasi, is rolled into tube shapes, filled with crushed walnuts, coated in syrup, and garnished with finely ground pistachios.
Pistachio baklava, a Mediterranean classic, features a simple mix of pistachios, lemon juice, sugar, and water. Cut into squares or diamonds, it offers a mild flavor with earthy undertones.
Chocolate baklava varies, using hazelnuts or chocolate-hazelnut spread for a nutty touch. Some include bittersweet chocolate and a drizzle on top or are infused with orange or cloves.
With a walnut filling, and sliced into squares, it is covered with syrup made from lemon juice and honey, making it an ideal pairing for Mediterranean dishes or a warm beverage.