Best Vegan Baklava Recipe for Delicious Homemade Treats

Baklava, with its irresistible layers of flaky phyllo dough, crunchy nuts, and luscious syrup, is a beloved dessert around the world. But traditional baklava often calls for butter and honey, which aren’t vegan-friendly.

That’s why I’m excited to share the best vegan baklava recipe that perfectly captures the essence of this classic treat without any animal products. Using plant-based alternatives and a few kitchen tricks, this recipe yields a golden, crispy, and sticky dessert that’s sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weekend indulgence, this vegan baklava recipe is straightforward enough for home cooks and delivers authentic flavors that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.

Plus, you’ll love how customizable it is with different nuts and spices to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan baklava recipe is a game changer because it:

• Uses dairy-free butter alternatives to achieve that signature crisp flakiness without compromising taste.
• Incorporates a simple homemade syrup made with maple syrup and lemon juice instead of honey, making it fully plant-based.
• Combines toasted nuts like walnuts, pistachios, and almonds for a perfect crunchy texture and rich flavor.
• Is easy to assemble and bake, even if you’re new to working with phyllo dough.
• Can be stored and enjoyed for days, getting better as the syrup soaks in.

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds), finely chopped
• 1 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), melted
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife
• Medium saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen towel (to cover phyllo dough)

Instructions

1. Prepare your nuts: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, pistachios, and almonds with the ground cinnamon and ground cloves. Set aside.
2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while you assemble the baklava.
3. Prepare the phyllo dough: Carefully unroll the thawed phyllo sheets and cover them with a slightly damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out as you work.
4. Butter the baking dish: Using a pastry brush, coat the bottom and sides of your 9×13 inch baking dish with melted vegan butter.
5. Layer the phyllo sheets: Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering about 8 sheets.
6. Add the nut mixture: Spread a thin, even layer of the nut mixture over the layered phyllo sheets.
7. Continue layering: Add two more sheets of phyllo dough on top of the nuts, brushing each with butter. Then add another layer of nuts. Repeat this layering process until all nuts are used, finishing with about 8 layers of phyllo on top, each brushed with butter.
8. Cut the baklava: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the assembled baklava into diamond or square-shaped pieces. Cutting before baking prevents the layers from cracking.
9. Bake: Place the baklava in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
10. Prepare the syrup: While baking, combine the maple syrup, water, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened slightly.
11. Syrup the baklava: Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Let it soak and cool completely at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Tips & Variations

Always keep your phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.

For an extra layer of flavor, toss some finely grated orange zest or a splash of rose water into your syrup.

Experiment with different nut combinations like pecans or hazelnuts based on your preference and what’s available.

If you want a lower sugar version, reduce the sugar in the syrup or use a sugar substitute, but keep in mind that syrup is what gives baklava its signature stickiness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegan baklava slightly warm or at room temperature alongside a cup of strong black coffee, chai tea, or a refreshing mint tea. It also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream for extra indulgence.

For festive occasions, garnish with extra chopped pistachios or a sprinkle of edible rose petals to impress your guests with both flavor and presentation.

Conclusion

This best vegan baklava recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a traditional dessert with a compassionate twist. The layers of buttery, crispy phyllo combined with a fragrant nut filling and sweet maple syrup create a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or simply satisfying a sweet craving.

Creating vegan baklava at home might seem intimidating at first, but with these clear steps and tips, you’ll find it both fun and rewarding. Plus, it makes a wonderful gift or centerpiece for any celebration.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other delicious and creative vegan dishes like the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or try your hand at the Magic Dough Recipe for more baking inspiration.

Happy baking and enjoy your sweet, vegan baklava masterpiece!

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