Apple Walnut Baklava

Approx. Time:

1 hr prep • 40 to 45 min bake • 1hr 45 min total

Servings:

14 pieces

🍎 Apple Walnut Baklava

I’ve always loved baklava. Honestly, in my house, it’s not just a dessert — it’s part of every celebration. Any time we have a gathering, family over, or something to celebrate, this is one of the first things that gets made. It’s just one of those dishes that brings everyone together.

And if I’m being honest… I love anything soaked in syrup 😄
That warm, sweet, sticky bite — there’s nothing like it.

This version is a little twist on the classic. I wanted to keep everything I love about traditional baklava — the flaky layers, the syrup, the richness — but make it just a little lighter and fresher. Adding shredded apple does exactly that. It gives it a soft texture, a bit of natural sweetness, and it balances everything so nicely with the walnuts and lemon syrup.

It still feels indulgent, but not heavy. You can actually go back for another piece without feeling like it’s too much — and trust me, that happens every time I make this.

What I love most about this recipe is that it still respects tradition, but it has a little bit of my style in it. Simple ingredients, real flavor, and something you’d be proud to put on the table whether it’s a holiday like Eid, a family dinner, or just because you’re craving something sweet.

And that syrup moment at the end… pouring it over while it’s still warm and watching it soak into every layer — that’s my favorite part every single time.

This is one of those recipes that looks impressive, but once you make it, you realize it’s actually very doable. And the result? Crispy, soft, sweet, slightly tangy from the lemon… just perfectly balanced.

If you grew up with baklava like I did, you’ll appreciate this version. And if you didn’t, this is a really good place to start.

Ingredients:

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Filling:

1 green apple, shredded
3 cups walnuts, chopped
1 tbsp vanilla sugar / extract
1 tbsp sugar

Phyllo:

1 package phyllo dough (thawed)
1–1½ cups butter, melted

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Simple Syrup:

4 cups sugar
5 cups water
1 tbsp vanilla sugar / extract
3 slices lemon

Instructions

1. Make the filling

In a bowl, combine:

shredded apple
chopped walnuts
vanilla sugar
sugar

Mix well and set aside

2. Prepare the syrup

In a saucepan, add:

sugar
water
vanilla sugar
lemon slices

Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes.
Set aside to cool slightly.

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3. Layer the phyllo

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Work with 4 sheets of phyllo at a time
Brush each layer with melted butter
Repeat until you have a stack

Cut into 4 equal strip

4. Fill and shape

Add filling to each strip
Fold into triangles (like a samosa shape)
Place in a buttered baking dish

Brush the tops with more butter.

5. Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until:

golden brown
crisp and flaky

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6. Add the syrup

While the baklava is still warm:

👉 Pour the syrup slowly over the top
👉 Let it soak in completely

This is where the magic happens ✨

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💡 Tips

Don’t skip the butter between layers — that’s what makes it flaky
Pour warm syrup over warm baklava for best absorption
Let it sit at least 2–3 hours before serving

Estimated Nutrition

(approximate per piece)

Calories: ~320
Protein: ~4g
Fat: ~18g
Carbs: ~36g

Macros are approximate and can vary based on portion size and syrup absorption

About the author

Why I Share These Recipes With You

“Food is how I connect with my culture, with others, and with myself. I started The Sweet Spot Done Right to help others do the same: discover new flavors, celebrate where they come from, and make something meaningful in their own kitchen.

I want to make global cooking simple, healthy, and fun for everyone.”