Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baklava Cups offer all the indulgence of traditional baklava with less effort and more convenience. The buttery, flaky phyllo dough crisps up perfectly in a muffin tin, creating the ideal base for a mixture of walnuts, pistachios, and almonds, along with cinnamon and honey. The cups are topped with a sweet syrup that soaks into the layers, giving them that signature sticky-sweet flavor. With their individual servings, these Baklava Cups are not only delicious but also a fun and elegant addition to any dessert table. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare and can be made in advance!

Ingredients

For the Cups:

• 10-12 sheets phyllo dough (about half a package)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, and almonds), finely chopped

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Syrup:

• 1 cup honey

• ¼ cup water

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Syrup:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, water, and lemon juice. If you’re using a cinnamon stick, add it to the mixture as well.

2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

3. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. Remove the cinnamon stick if used.

2. Prepare the Baklava Cups:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Place one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush with melted butter. Place another sheet of phyllo dough on top and brush with butter again. Repeat this process with about 4-5 sheets of phyllo dough to create a sturdy base.

3. Cut the layered phyllo dough into 4 squares (about 3-4 inches each) using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors.

4. Gently press each square of phyllo dough into the muffin tin cups, folding the edges slightly to create a small “basket” shape. Repeat with the remaining phyllo dough squares to fill each muffin cup.

5. In a small bowl, combine the chopped nuts, cinnamon, and sugar. Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the nut mixture into each phyllo dough cup.

6. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy.

3. Assemble the Baklava Cups:

1. Once the cups are baked and golden, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.

2. Drizzle each cup with the cooled honey syrup, making sure the syrup soaks into the phyllo dough and nuts.

3. Let the Baklava Cups sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the syrup to soak in fully before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 cups

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes (including cooling time)

Variations

• Nut Variations: Feel free to use your favorite nuts or any combination of walnuts, pistachios, almonds, and cashews.

• Spiced Syrup: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the honey syrup for a spiced twist.

• Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent variation, drizzle the cooled Baklava Cups with melted chocolate after drizzling with honey syrup.

• Vegan Baklava Cups: Use melted coconut oil in place of butter and maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey for a vegan version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Baklava Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can still be delicious the next day.

• Freezing: These Baklava Cups freeze well. To freeze, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore some of the crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I make Baklava Cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Baklava Cups ahead of time. Bake them, allow them to cool, and then drizzle with syrup just before serving.

2. Can I use phyllo dough that’s been frozen?

Yes, you can use frozen phyllo dough, but make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using it. Working with phyllo dough can be tricky, so keep it covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out while you work with it.

3. How do I prevent the phyllo dough from becoming too dry?

To keep the phyllo dough moist while you work with it, cover the sheets with a damp cloth. Also, make sure to brush each sheet with melted butter as you layer them.

4. Can I use a different sweetener for the syrup?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or a simple sugar syrup if you prefer a different flavor profile.

5. Can I make these Baklava Cups larger?

If you want larger portions, you can use a standard muffin tin instead of a mini muffin tin. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may need an extra 5 minutes of baking.

6. What can I serve Baklava Cups with?

Baklava Cups are great on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a cup of strong coffee.

7. How do I know when the Baklava Cups are done baking?

The Baklava Cups are done when the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy. You may notice the edges becoming slightly darker, which is perfectly fine.

8. Can I add more syrup if I like it sweeter?

Yes, if you prefer your Baklava Cups sweeter, feel free to drizzle more syrup on top after baking. Just be sure to let it soak into the phyllo dough for the best texture.

9. Can I make these Baklava Cups without the syrup?

While the syrup is essential for the traditional baklava flavor and texture, you can skip it if you prefer a drier pastry, though the result will be less sweet and sticky.

10. How do I make Baklava Cups with a different filling?

You can experiment with different fillings, such as ground pistachios, hazelnuts, or even chocolate, to create a different version of Baklava Cups while still keeping the phyllo dough and syrup.

Conclusion

Baklava Cups are a delightful and indulgent twist on the classic baklava, offering all the delicious flavors of this traditional dessert in a smaller, more convenient form. With crispy, flaky phyllo dough, a rich nut filling, and a sweet honey syrup, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, can be customized to your taste, and are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a sweet and nutty dessert. Enjoy these Baklava Cups as a treat for your next gathering or as a special snack for yourself!

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