Sütlü Baklava

Sütlü Baklava is a delightful twist on the traditional baklava, a dessert with deep roots in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Known for its rich, buttery layers and sweet syrup, baklava is often enjoyed during festive occasions. The addition of milk creates a creamy, luscious texture, providing a unique experience that balances the classic sweetness with a touch of subtle creaminess.

History of Baklava

Baklava has a long and storied history with origins that trace back to the Ottoman Empire. It has been a beloved dessert across many cultures, including Turkish, Greek, and Middle Eastern kitchens. Over the centuries, baklava recipes have been adapted to include various nuts and spices, each culture adding its own unique twist. Sütlü Baklava is a relatively modern interpretation that incorporates milk for a softer finish.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Sütlü Baklava, you will need the following ingredients:

• Phyllo Dough - 500g pack
• Unsalted Butter - 250g, melted
• Walnuts - 300g, finely chopped
• Sugar - 400g
• Milk - 500ml
• Honey - 100g
• Water - 250ml
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Cloves - 2, optional

Preparation

The preparation of Sütlü Baklava is a delicate process that requires attention to detail and a bit of patience. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring your workspace is clean and ready.

Preparing the Nut Filling

Start by finely chopping the walnuts. Mix the chopped walnuts with cinnamon in a bowl. This will be the filling for your baklava.

Laying the Phyllo Dough

Carefully unroll the phyllo dough. Use a damp cloth to cover the sheets to prevent them from drying out. Brush a baking dish with melted butter, then lay the first sheet of phyllo. Brush each layer with butter, and every few layers, sprinkle a portion of the nut mixture evenly across the dough.

Cooking Process

Assembling the Baklava

Continue layering and buttering the phyllo dough and walnut mixture until you've used all the ingredients, ensuring the top layer is a sheet of phyllo brushed generously with butter.

Baking the Baklava

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the assembled baklava into diamond or square shapes. Place the dish in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes until the top is golden brown. Set a cooking timer as needed.

Making the Sütlü Syrup

While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add cloves if desired. After boiling for 10 minutes, remove from heat and stir in the honey and milk. Let it cool for a moment.

Serving and Enjoying

As soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, pour the warm milk syrup over the hot baklava, ensuring each piece is covered. Allow the baklava to soak in the syrup and cool to room temperature before serving.

How to Enjoy Sütlü Baklava

Sütlü Baklava is best enjoyed with a cup of hot Turkish tea or coffee. The combination of the creamy baklava with a warm beverage enhances its flavors and makes for a delightful dessert experience. It's perfect for sharing with friends and family during special occasions or as a sweet treat at the end of a meal.