Christmas Baklava – Don’t LOSE this Recipe

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Filling:**
In a bowl, mix the chopped nuts with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.

2. **Assemble the Baklava:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Layer 8 sheets of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing each layer with butter before adding the next.

Spread 1/3 of the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo. Add another 6 layers of phyllo, buttering each one, followed by another 1/3 of the nuts. Repeat the process, ending with a final layer of 8 buttered phyllo sheets.

3. **Cut the Baklava:**
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the assembled baklava into diamond or square shapes.

4. **Bake:**
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden and crisp.

5. **Make the Syrup:**
While the baklava bakes, combine sugar, honey, water, vanilla extract, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

6. **Combine:**
Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm syrup over the top, ensuring every piece is coated. Allow it to soak for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for the best flavor.

7. **Serve:**
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch. Serve at room temperature and watch it disappear from the table!

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#### Tips for Success

– **Keep the phyllo dough moist:** Cover it with a damp kitchen towel while assembling to prevent it from drying out.
– **Don’t skimp on butter:** Buttering each layer of phyllo ensures a crispy, golden finish.
– **Let it soak:** Patience is key—allowing the baklava to sit lets the syrup penetrate each layer, creating that signature sticky-sweet texture.

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#### Why You’ll Love It

This Christmas Baklava is a stunning centerpiece for your holiday dessert table. The warm spices and citrusy syrup add a festive flair to the classic baklava, making it a delightful treat to share with family and friends. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make and stores beautifully, so you can prepare it ahead of time.

Don’t lose this recipe—it’s destined to become a holiday tradition!