Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dessert that's part culinary art, part flavor explosion! Imagine delicate layers of crispy phyllo dough embracing sweet, juicy peaches, crunchy walnuts, and a bourbon-infused honey glaze that will make your guests weak in the knees. This isn't just a dessert - it's a gourmet experience that transforms the classic Middle Eastern baklava into a modern, irresistible treat that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo dough
- 2 cups sliced peaches
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your baklava bakes evenly and achieves a golden-brown color.
- Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions. Typically, it will need to be refrigerated overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, carefully unroll the dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced peaches, chopped walnuts, honey, and cinnamon. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the peaches are evenly coated with the honey and spices.
- Brush a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted butter to prevent sticking. Lay down one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides. Brush the top of the phyllo sheet with melted butter.
- Layer another sheet of phyllo dough on top and brush it with butter again. Repeat this process, layering and buttering approximately 5 sheets of phyllo dough to create a sturdy base.
- Spread half of the peach and walnut mixture evenly over the layered phyllo dough in the baking dish.
- Continue layering phyllo dough on top of the filling, brushing each sheet with melted butter. Use about 5 more sheets for this layer, just as you did for the base.
- Spread the remaining peach and walnut mixture over the second layer of phyllo dough.
- Finish with another layer of phyllo dough, using 5 to 7 sheets, brushing each with melted butter. Make sure to brush the top layer generously with butter as well.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, making sure to cut through all layers of phyllo dough.
- Bake the baklava in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and crisp.
- While the baklava is baking, prepare the bourbon glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the bourbon and honey over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the bourbon glaze evenly over the hot baklava. Allow it to soak in for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Once cooled, carefully lift the pieces out of the baking dish using a spatula and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Peach Baklava Flowers with Bourbon Glaze!
Tips
- Phyllo Dough Handling: Keep your phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle. Work quickly and carefully to maintain its delicate texture.
- Butter is Your Friend: Don't be shy with the melted butter! Each layer needs a generous brush to create those signature crispy, golden layers that make baklava so irresistible.
- Cutting Technique: Use a sharp knife and cut your baklava before baking. This helps the syrup penetrate all layers and makes serving much easier.
- Glaze Timing is Crucial: Pour the bourbon glaze over the hot baklava immediately after baking. This ensures maximum flavor absorption and creates that signature sticky-sweet texture.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This dessert actually improves with time, so feel free to make it a day in advance. The flavors will meld and intensify, making your baklava even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate this dessert to new heights!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
