Baklava Bites encapsulate the essence of the classic Middle Eastern dessert in a delightful, easy-to-eat miniature form. These tiny treats pack all the sweet, nutty flavors of traditional baklava, including layers of phyllo pastry filled with a spiced nut mixture, all compacted into bite-sized pieces. Drizzled with a honey-citrus syrup that soaks into the phyllo layers, each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of aromatic sweetness. Perfect for parties or as a small after-dinner treat, Baklava Bites are not only easier to make than full-sized baklava but also perfect for sharing, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this rich, decadent pastry without the mess of cutting and serving.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 cup mixed nuts (such as walnuts, pistachios, and almonds), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 strip of lemon zest
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the Nut Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts, cinnamon, cardamom, and sugar. Mix well.
- Prepare the Phyllo Sheets:
- Lay one sheet of phyllo on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush again with butter. Cut the layered phyllo into squares that will fit into the cups of your mini muffin tin.
- Assemble the Baklava Bites:
- Press each phyllo square into a muffin cup. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the nut mixture into each cup. Fold over the edges of the phyllo to partially cover the filling. Brush the top with more melted butter.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden and crisp.
- Make the Syrup:
- While the baklava bites are baking, combine honey, water, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Finish the Baklava Bites:
- Remove the baklava bites from the oven and immediately drizzle with the hot syrup. Allow the bites to soak up the syrup in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Once cooled, arrange the Baklava Bites on a serving platter. They can be garnished with extra chopped nuts or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Baklava Bites are a creative and delightful way to enjoy the iconic flavors of baklava without the need for utensils, making them an ideal choice for buffets or as sweet finger food at any celebration.
