Baklava is often viewed as a decadent dessert, drenched in syrup and filled with nuts, making it a favorite among many. When you move into the vegan territory, finding a dairy-free alternative can seem intimidating, but fear not! 

Today, I’m excited to share my take on vegan baklava that captures all the scrumptiousness without any dairy. I’ll guide you step-by-step, sprinkle in some fun facts along the way, and ensure that we’ve covered all the bases. So, grab your apron, and let’s roll some phyllo!

Pairing Suggestions

Before diving into the specifics about vegan baklava, let’s consider what else would go well with this delightful treat. Here are a few pairings that elevate the experience:

1. Strong Coffee or Tea: Baklava pairs beautifully with a strong cup of Turkish coffee or a fragrant mint tea. The bitterness of the drink balances the sweetness of the baklava perfectly.
   
2. Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of vegan vanilla or pistachio ice cream is an easy way to add a cold contrast to this warm dessert.
   
3. Fresh Fruit: Berries, citrus, or even pomegranate seeds add a bright burst of flavor. They offer a refreshing contrast that complements the rich, nutty experience of baklava.
   

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Baklava holds a warm place in my heart. Its origins trace back to the Ottoman Empire, and wow, it’s quite the culinary masterpiece! Layers of flaky pastry envelop a mixture of nuts and spices, all soaked in a sweet syrup. Although traditional baklava is made with butter, I assure you that a vegan version can be just as delightful, if not better. Welcome to the world of vegan baklava dairy-free!

What is Vegan Baklava Dairy-Free?

Essentially, vegan baklava is a plant-based adaptation of the traditional Middle Eastern dessert. Instead of using butter, we’ll utilize vegan butter or oil. For sweetening, maple syrup adds a beautiful taste without compromising the dessert’s texture. This means that anyone, whether plant-based or not, can indulge in this sweet treat without hesitation.

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s break it down into four compelling reasons why this recipe is a winner:

1. Accessibility of Ingredients: All ingredients required are easy to find, whether you’re shopping at a local grocery store or a specialized health food store.

2. Flavor Without Compromise: Vegan butter and the combination of spices ensure that you won’t miss the traditional version. The flavors are vibrant, aromatic, and undeniably delicious.

3. Healthier Option: Using pure maple syrup provides a hint of richness while reducing refined sugars. The nuts add protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying dessert.

4. Simplicity of Preparation: This recipe is approachable for beginners yet satisfying for the seasoned bakers out there. We’ll walk through the process step-by-step, making it easy to follow.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to get started:

• 1 lb phyllo pastry sheets: The star of our dessert.
  
• 1 cup vegan butter, softened: To brush between those flaky layers.
  
• 1 lb shelled walnuts, roughly chopped: A classic nut choice, but feel free to mix in pistachios or almonds.
  
• 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness.
  
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that amplifies flavor.
  
• ½ cup pure maple syrup or agave nectar: Natural sweetness, without the guilt.
  
• 1 cup water: To form the syrup.
  
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: For rich flavor.
  
• 1 teaspoon rosewater extract (optional): Adds a traditional, floral touch.
  
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated orange zest (optional): A zesty kick!
  
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional): Brings warmth and a touch of exotic flavor.
  

How to Make This Vegan Baklava Dairy-Free?

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty with step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, take your phyllo pastry out of the fridge. Allow it to reach room temperature, as this prevents it from tearing while you work.

Step 2: Prepare the Nut Filling

In a bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and cardamom. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Layering Phyllo Dough

Unroll the phyllo sheets and lay them flat. Brush a baking dish (around 9×13 inches) with melted vegan butter. Start layering phyllo sheets, brushing each layer with more vegan butter. Aim for 8-10 sheets for the bottom layer.

Step 4: Add the Nut Mixture

Once you’ve layered enough sheets, sprinkle the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo.

Step 5: Continue Layering

Repeat the process of layering phyllo sheets and adding the nut mixture, ensuring that you finish with a top layer of phyllo sheets (at least 8-10 sheets). Again, brush melted vegan butter between each layer.

Step 6: Cut the Baklava

Using a sharp knife, slice the baklava into diamond or square shapes. This ensures that the syrup seeps in nicely.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown. The aroma will be fantastic!

Step 8: Prepare the Syrup

While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and maple syrup. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves. Stir in vanilla, rosewater, and orange zest. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 9: Assemble

Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm syrup over the hot baklava. Allow it to soak in and cool for at least 3 hours for best results.

Tips & Tricks

1. Thaw Phyllo Properly: Make sure the phyllo dough is fully thawed to avoid any tearing.

2. Brush Generously: Don’t skimp on the vegan butter between layers; it’s key for both flavor and flakiness.

3. Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to switch nuts according to availability or preference.

4. Slice Before Baking: It’s easier to cut when the baklava is unbaked. It also helps in getting even syrup distribution.

5. Add a Twist with Flavors: Besides rosewater, try other extracts, like almond or coconut, to personalize the baklava.

Nutrition Information

Being conscious about what goes into our bodies is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of typical nutrition per serving (based on 12 slices):

• Calories: 270
  
• Fat: 12g
  
• Carbohydrates: 38g
  
• Fiber: 2g
  
• Sugar: 20g
  
• Protein: 3g
  

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week; just be cautious about moisture. Avoid refrigerating as it can make the phyllo soggy.

What Sides Would Complement Vegan Baklava Dairy-Free?

Looking for some side dishes? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Greek Salad: A light, refreshing salad with cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and feta (vegan-style, of course). The acidity cuts through the sweetness of baklava well.
   
2. Citrus Couscous: A dish of fluffy couscous, tossed with citrus zest, herbs, and some nuts creates a delightful combination with baklava.
   
3. Dairy-Free Yogurt: A cool, creamy dairy-free yogurt topped with honey or agave creates a satisfying contrast with the baklava.
   

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

If you find yourself short on any supplies, here are some alternatives:

1. Phyllo Dough: You can use spring roll wrappers or even homemade pastry dough in a pinch.
   
2. Nuts: Almonds or pecans can take the place of walnuts. Mix them for variety!
   
3. Vegan Butter: Coconut oil or olive oil works well as a substitute for vegan butter.
   
4. Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar can be used as a sweetener. Adjust quantities as necessary based on sweetness preference.
   

Pamela Dunlap

Vegan Baklava Dairy-Free

Baklava is often viewed as a decadent dessert, drenched in syrup and filled with nuts, making it a favorite among many.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 24

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 270

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 lb phyllo pastry sheets: The star of our dessert.
• 1 cup vegan butter softened: To brush between those flaky layers.
• 1 lb shelled walnuts roughly chopped: A classic nut choice, but feel free to mix in pistachios or almonds.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that amplifies flavor.
• ½ cup pure maple syrup or agave nectar: Natural sweetness without the guilt.
• 1 cup water: To form the syrup.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: For rich flavor.
• 1 teaspoon rosewater extract optional: Adds a traditional, floral touch.
• ½ teaspoon freshly grated orange zest optional: A zesty kick!
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom optional: Brings warmth and a touch of exotic flavor.

Equipment

• Oven, Baking Sheet

Method

 

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, take your phyllo pastry out of the fridge. Allow it to reach room temperature, as this prevents it from tearing while you work.

Step 2: Prepare the Nut Filling

1. In a bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and cardamom. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Layering Phyllo Dough

1. Unroll the phyllo sheets and lay them flat. Brush a baking dish (around 9×13 inches) with melted vegan butter. Start layering phyllo sheets, brushing each layer with more vegan butter. Aim for 8-10 sheets for the bottom layer.

Step 4: Add the Nut Mixture

1. Once you’ve layered enough sheets, sprinkle the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo.

Step 5: Continue Layering

1. Repeat the process of layering phyllo sheets and adding the nut mixture, ensuring that you finish with a top layer of phyllo sheets (at least 8-10 sheets). Again, brush melted vegan butter between each layer.

Step 6: Cut the Baklava

1. Using a sharp knife, slice the baklava into diamond or square shapes. This ensures that the syrup seeps in nicely.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown. The aroma will be fantastic!

Step 8: Prepare the Syrup

1. While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and maple syrup. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves. Stir in vanilla, rosewater, and orange zest. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 9: Assemble

1. Once the baklava is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm syrup over the hot baklava. Allow it to soak in and cool for at least 3 hours for best results.

Nutrition

Calories: 270kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 3gFat: 12gFiber: 2gSugar: 20g

Notes

1. Thaw Phyllo Properly: Make sure the phyllo dough is fully thawed to avoid any tearing.
2. Brush Generously: Don’t skimp on the vegan butter between layers; it’s key for both flavor and flakiness.
3. Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to switch nuts according to availability or preference.
4. Slice Before Baking: It’s easier to cut when the baklava is unbaked. It also helps in getting even syrup distribution.
5. Add a Twist with Flavors: Besides rosewater, try other extracts, like almond or coconut, to personalize the baklava.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Creating a vegan baklava dairy-free may seem like a daunting task, but trust me, you’ll find it’s worth the effort. The layers of flaky goodness wrapped around a delightful nut mixture and soaked in syrup create a dessert that everyone will fall in love with. So whether you’re vegan or simply curious, give this recipe a try! I promise it’s a hit at any gathering or even just a quiet night in. Happy baking!

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