Rolled Baklava

A favorite Middle Eastern dessert just got better. This rolled version gives the crunchy, sweet confection a new look, but still delivers exquisite crunch and sweetness. Recipe created by Chef Mike Isabella.

Recipe Ingredients:

For Baklava Rolls:
1 cup finely ground walnuts (pulsed in a food processor)
1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground clove
12 sheets phyllo dough; thawed
1/2 stick unsalted butter; melted

For Syrup:
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup light corn syrup
2 cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 lemon

Cooking Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Combine walnuts, panko bread crumbs, sugar, cinnamon and clove in a mixing bowl and stir to evenly combine.
3. Lay 1 sheet of phyllo on a large cutting board and lightly brush with melted butter. Lay another sheet of phyllo on top and lightly brush the second sheet with melted butter.
4. In a straight line, sprinkle 1/6 walnut mixture parallel and 2 inches from the bottom of phyllo. Fold bottom over mixture and roll all the way to the end. Brush top of phyllo with butter to seal the roll. Gently scrunch both ends into center of roll, trim approximately 1-inch from both ends and place in a greased 9X6 inch baking dish. Brush top with butter.
5. Repeat with the remaining phyllo creating 6 rolls total. Brush all rolls once more with butter.
6. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile prepare the syrup. Combine all ingredients for syrup in a sauce pot over high heat. Stir together and bring to a boil. Let boil for 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let rest.
8. Remove rolls from oven and cut each into 3 pieces. Strain syrup over rolls and allow to soak for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
9. Gently remove baklava from baking dish and arrange on a large serving platter. Best at room temperature.

Makes 18 servings.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of California Walnuts.