Why You’ll Love this Vegan Baklava Recipe
If you’ve ever craved a sweet treat that’s both indulgent and guilt-free, you’ll love this vegan baklava recipe. It’s a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering layers of flaky phyllo dough and a rich nut filling, all without any animal products.
The combination of spices brings warmth and depth, while the sweet syrup adds the perfect finishing touch. I adore how easy it’s to prepare, making it ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Plus, it satisfies my sweet tooth without the heavy guilt. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Vegan Baklava
When it comes to making vegan baklava, the ingredients play a key role in achieving that rich, nutty flavor and flaky texture we all adore. You’ll be surprised at how simple they are, yet they come together to create something truly special.
Whether you’re making this for a holiday gathering or just to satisfy your own sweet cravings (because, who doesn’t need a little sweetness in their life?), having the right ingredients ready to go makes all the difference.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups walnuts
- 1 cup almonds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon clove
- 12 sheets phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup light olive oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Now, a little note about the ingredients: feel free to get creative with the nuts. While this recipe calls for walnuts and almonds, you can mix and match based on your preferences.
Pecans, pistachios, or even hazelnuts could also bring a unique flavor to your baklava. Just remember to chop them finely so they fit well between those delicate layers of phyllo.
And about the spices—cinnamon and clove add warmth, but if you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of nutmeg could be a fun addition.
Just imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some baklava magic happen!
How to Make Vegan Baklava
When it comes to making vegan baklava, the process is just as delightful as the end result. First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F. This is essential because you want the baklava to bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.
While that’s warming up, grab your 3 cups of walnuts and 1 cup of almonds. Finely chop half of the walnuts and all of the almonds—don’t worry if they’re not all perfectly uniform; a little variety adds character. Now, mix these nuts with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of clove. The smell of those spices will transport you straight to a cozy bakery. Set this nutty mixture aside for now, while you get your phyllo dough ready.
Next, you’ll need to cut the 12 sheets of phyllo dough in half lengthwise. This might seem like a minor detail, but it helps fit them perfectly into your greased 9 x 12 pan. Stack those cut sheets on top of each other, and don’t forget to cover the ones you aren’t using with a moist towel—phyllo dough can dry out faster than you can say “baklava.”
Now, take the first sheet of phyllo, lay it in the pan, and give it a light spray with 1/2 cup of light olive oil. Repeat this step with five more sheets, layering them one atop the other, adding a sprinkle of your nut mixture (about one-third of it) in between. Then, layer six more sheets with oil, sprinkle more nuts, and repeat until you’ve used up all your delicious filling.
Once you’ve stacked and sprinkled to your heart’s content, it’s time for the slicing. Using a sharp, oiled knife, carefully cut the whole pan into diamond or square shapes—whatever strikes your fancy. This is where you can channel your inner artist or chef.
Bake your masterpiece in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, then lower the heat to 300°F and continue baking for another 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be golden brown on top, which might take an extra 10 minutes or so.
While that’s baking, you can prepare the sweet syrup. Combine 1 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of maple syrup over low heat, stirring until it thickens a bit.
Once you pull that baklava out of the oven, pour the syrup over it immediately. Let it chill in the fridge to set, and voila! You have a delightful vegan baklava that’s ready to impress. Just try not to eat it all yourself—sharing is caring, after all.
Vegan Baklava Substitutions & Variations
After mastering the classic vegan baklava recipe, it’s fun to explore some substitutions and variations to make it your own.
For the nuts, I often mix walnuts with pistachios or hazelnuts for a unique flavor twist. If you want a sweeter baklava, add more maple syrup or try agave nectar.
I’ve also swapped the lemon juice for orange juice for a citrusy touch. For a spicier kick, you could incorporate nutmeg or cardamom into the nut mixture.
Finally, consider using different extracts, like coconut or peppermint, to create a whole new baklava experience. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Vegan Baklava
While enjoying vegan baklava, I love to pair it with a warm cup of herbal tea or a rich, aromatic coffee.
The sweet, nutty flavors of the baklava complement the soothing notes of chamomile or peppermint tea beautifully. If I’m in the mood for a pick-me-up, a bold espresso enhances the layers of flavor in each bite.
I also enjoy serving it with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream, which adds a creamy contrast.
For a festive touch, I sometimes sprinkle fresh pistachios or serve alongside fresh fruit like pomegranate or citrus slices for a rejuvenating balance.
Additional Tips & Notes
Enjoying vegan baklava is even better when you keep a few tips in mind.
First, don’t skip brushing each phyllo layer with oil; it’s key for that flaky texture. If you’re short on time, pre-chop your nuts and prepare the syrup in advance.
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of orange blossom water to the syrup. When cutting your baklava, do it before baking to guarantee clean pieces.
Finally, let it cool completely for the syrup to soak in properly, enhancing the taste. Trust me, these small adjustments make a big difference in your baklava experience!