Chocolate Baklava Recipe
Description: If you’re a fan of both chocolate and baklava, then you’re in for a treat with this delightful fusion of flavors. This Chocolate Baklava recipe is perfect for those special occasions when you want to impress your guests with a unique and indulgent dessert. With layers of crunchy phyllo dough, a sweet and nutty filling, and a decadent chocolate glaze, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsalted butter
- 4 cups pecans, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3/4 cup sugar, divided
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package phyllo dough (16 ounces), thawed
- Butter for brushing
For the Orange Syrup:
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Thin Chocolate Glaze:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Clarified Butter:
- In a small skillet, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
- Let it stand for a few minutes.
- Skim off and discard any white foam from the top.
- Do not use any milky residue that sinks to the bottom; the clear yellow liquid is clarified butter.
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Nut Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, cinnamon, 1/4 cup of sugar, and chocolate chips. Mix well and set aside.
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Assemble the Baklava:
- Open and stack the phyllo sheets on a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
- Brush a 12×18-inch sheet cake pan with clarified butter.
- Layer half of the phyllo sheets (about 10 x 12) in the pan, brushing each sheet with butter.
- Spread half of the nut mixture evenly over the layered phyllo sheets.
- Continue layering phyllo sheets and nut mixture, brushing each sheet with butter.
- Finish with a final layer of phyllo sheets brushed with butter.
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Cut and Bake:
- Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into 50 diamond-shaped pieces without removing them from the pan.
- Brush the top with the remaining clarified butter.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Prepare the Orange Syrup:
- About 30 minutes before the baklava is finished baking, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and orange juice in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture to boiling over medium heat, stirring often.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Pour Syrup and Cool:
- As soon as the baklava is removed from the oven, pour the hot orange syrup over it.
- Let the baklava stand until cool, for about 4 hours or overnight.
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Prepare the Thin Chocolate Glaze:
- In a small glass bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips, butter, and water.
- Heat the mixture in the microwave on high for 30 to 45 seconds, or until melted and smooth when stirred.
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Drizzle with Chocolate Glaze:
- Once the baklava has cooled, drizzle the thin chocolate glaze on top.
- Allow the glaze to set up before serving.
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Serve and Store:
- Serve the Chocolate Baklava as a decadent dessert for your special occasion.
- Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for 4 to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 190.1
- Fat Content: 16g
- Saturated Fat Content: 6.5g
- Cholesterol Content: 20.1mg
- Sodium Content: 47.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 11.9g
- Fiber Content: 1.4g
- Sugar Content: 5.5g
- Protein Content: 1.8g
This Chocolate Baklava recipe yields approximately 50 pieces, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful crunch of this indulgent dessert! 🍫🥐
