Pakhlava, also known as Azerbaijani baklava, is a rich and flaky dessert made with layers of thin dough, filled with a mixture of ground nuts, and sweetened with syrup or honey. This festive treat is commonly prepared for Nowruz and other special occasions, offering a perfect balance of buttery pastry, crunchy nuts, and fragrant spices.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

4 cups (1.1 lb / 500 g) all-purpose flour

1 cup (0.5 lb / 250 g) unsalted butter, softened

½ cup (0.12 l) warm milk

1 egg

½ tsp salt

1 tsp yeast

1 tbsp sugar

For the Filling:

2 cups (0.8 lb / 400 g) walnuts, finely ground

½ cup (0.2 lb / 100 g) sugar

1 tsp ground cardamom

For the Syrup:

½ cup (0.12 l) honey

½ cup (0.12 l) water

½ cup (0.2 lb / 100 g) sugar

For Brushing:

1 egg yolk

2 tbsp milk

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Knead into a soft dough. Cover and let the dough rest for 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling In a separate bowl, mix ground walnuts, sugar, and cardamom. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pakhlava Divide the dough into 10 equal parts. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet, about the size of your baking pan. Grease the baking pan and place one layer of dough. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle a portion of the filling. Repeat the layering process, ending with a final sheet of dough on top. Cut into diamond-shaped pieces and brush with egg yolk mixed with milk.

Step 4: Bake and Glaze Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown. While baking, prepare the syrup by heating honey, sugar, and water until dissolved. Once baked, pour the syrup over the hot pakhlava and let it soak.

Serving: Azerbaijani Pakhlava is best served warm or at room temperature with a cup of black tea.

This traditional Azerbaijani Pakhlava is a delightful treat for special occasions. With its rich nutty filling and delicate layers, it’s a must-try dessert for those who love sweet pastries.