Baklava Cups Recipe

Get ready to indulge in a delightful twist on a classic dessert! These Baklava Cups combine the rich flavors of traditional baklava with the convenience of mini fillo shells, making them perfect for gatherings or satisfying sweet cravings at home. With layers of crispy pastry, nutty goodness, and a drizzle of chocolate, this recipe is bound to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this irresistible treat that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

Baklava Cups are a fun and modern spin on the classic baklava. The use of mini fillo shells means you get all the crispy texture and nutty flavor without the hassle of working with layers of phyllo dough. Plus, they’re portioned perfectly for easy serving, making them ideal for parties or dessert platters. The addition of chocolate drizzle adds a contemporary flair, blending traditional flavors with a modern twist!

Ingredient List

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, from 1/2 small lemon
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 30 shells (2 boxes, 15 count each) Athens Mini Fillo Shells
• 2 cups nuts (we used 1 1/2 cups walnuts + 1/2 cup salted pistachios)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips, melted (for drizzle, optional)

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients.
• Small saucepan – to prepare the syrup.
• Pastry brush – for brushing butter on the fillo shells.
• Baking sheet – to hold the fillo cups while baking.
• Microwave-safe bowl – for melting chocolate.

Baklava Cups Recipe, Made Easy

Step 1: Prepare the Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, lemon juice, water, and honey. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Nut Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped walnuts and pistachios with the cinnamon. Drizzle in the melted butter and mix until the nuts are well coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cups

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the Athens Mini Fillo Shells on a baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the nut mixture into each shell, filling them to the top.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the filled shells in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden and the filling is fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 5: Drizzle with Syrup

Once baked, remove the Baklava Cups from the oven and immediately drizzle the cooled syrup over each cup. Allow them to soak for a few minutes to absorb the sweetness.

Step 6: Garnish (Optional)

If desired, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cups for an extra touch of decadence.

Better Choices & Swaps

• For a healthier option, consider using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey.
• You can replace the walnuts and pistachios with your favorite nuts, such as almonds or pecans.
• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or ground cardamom into the nut mixture.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Fillo shells burn quickly: Keep a close watch on the cups while they bake, as they can go from golden to burnt in a matter of minutes.
• Too much syrup: If you find the cups soggy, drizzle a little less syrup next time or allow the syrup to cool longer before applying.
• Nut mixture spills over: Fill the cups just to the top to avoid overflow during baking.
• Chocolate hardens too quickly: If the chocolate cools and hardens before you can drizzle, simply reheat it gently in the microwave.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Baklava Cups are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, place the cooled cups in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and allow them to come to room temperature before serving. If you prefer them warm, you can pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to crisp up.

FAQ

Can I use different types of nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite nuts. Almonds, pecans, or even hazelnuts would work beautifully in this recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free phyllo dough instead of the Athens Mini Fillo Shells. Just be sure to check the packaging for gluten-free certification.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover Baklava Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they start to soften, you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the nut filling and syrup a day in advance. Assemble and bake the cups on the day you plan to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Make It Tonight

With the holidays approaching or just a sweet craving knocking at your door, these Baklava Cups are the perfect treat to make tonight! They’re easy to whip up, and you’ll love the delightful combination of textures and flavors. Your friends and family will rave about them – and you might just find yourself making these again and again! Enjoy every crispy, nutty, sweet bite of these Baklava Cups; they’re sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. Happy baking!