Decadent Chocolate-Pecan Baklava with Orange Syrup 🍫🥐

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:

1. 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.

2. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. Drizzle with Chocolate Glaze:

   • Once the baklava has cooled, drizzle the thin chocolate glaze on top.
   • Allow the glaze to set up before serving.

10. 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! 🍫🥐