BEST Air Fryer Baklava

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Best Air Fryer Baklava Recipe

Golden, flaky, nutty, and sweet—this air fryer version of traditional baklava cuts the time but keeps all the flavor. It’s easier than you think and absolutely irresistible!

📌 Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

  • Rest Time: 2–3 hours (for syrup absorption)

  • Total Time: ~45 minutes + resting

  • Yields: 8–10 pieces (using 6–7 inch round or square pan)

  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

📋 Ingredients

🔸 For the Baklava:

  • 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed completely

  • 1½ cups nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or almonds – or a mix), finely chopped

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • ½ tsp ground cardamom (optional but recommended)

  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted (or use ghee/clarified butter for extra crispiness)

🔸 For the Syrup:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • ½ cup honey

  • ⅓ cup water

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 strip lemon peel or ½ tsp lemon zest

  • 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Optional: 1–2 drops rosewater or orange blossom water

🔸 Optional Garnishes:

  • Crushed pistachios

  • Extra drizzle of honey

🧰 Equipment Needed

  • Air fryer (large enough to fit a 6–7 inch pan)

  • Air fryer-safe baking dish (round or square)

  • Pastry brush

  • Sharp knife

  • Small saucepan

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Nut Filling

  • Finely chop your nuts using a food processor or knife.

  • Combine them in a bowl with cinnamon and cardamom. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Dough

  • Thaw phyllo dough fully (preferably in the fridge overnight).

  • Cut phyllo sheets to fit your air fryer-safe pan (usually 6 or 7 inches).

  • Cover sheets with a slightly damp towel to prevent drying.

Step 3: Layer the Baklava

  1. Brush your pan with melted butter.

  2. Place one phyllo sheet in the pan and brush with butter.

  3. Repeat for 5–6 layers.

  4. Sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons of the nut mixture evenly.

  5. Add 3–4 more layers of phyllo, brushing each with butter, followed by more nuts.

  6. Repeat layering until all nuts are used.

  7. Finish with 6–8 layers of phyllo on top, brushing each layer with butter.

Step 4: Score the Baklava

  • Using a sharp knife, cut the unbaked baklava into diamonds or squares.

💡 Tip: Press straight down when cutting—don’t drag the knife to avoid tearing the layers.

Step 5: Air Fry

  1. Preheat air fryer to 325°F (160°C) for 3 minutes.

  2. Carefully place the pan in the air fryer basket.

  3. Air fry for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

🔥 If it browns too fast, cover loosely with foil during the last 5 minutes.

Step 6: Make the Syrup (While Baking)

  1. In a saucepan, combine:

    • ½ cup sugar

    • ½ cup honey

    • ⅓ cup water

    • 1 tbsp lemon juice

    • Lemon peel & cinnamon stick

  2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat for 7–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

  3. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and rosewater/orange blossom water if using.

  4. Let the syrup cool slightly.

Step 7: Syrup Soak

  • Once the baklava is done, remove from air fryer.

  • While baklava is still hot, pour cooled syrup evenly over the top.

  • Allow it to sit at room temperature for at least 2–3 hours so the syrup absorbs fully.

Step 8: Serve & Store

  • Garnish with crushed pistachios.

  • Serve at room temperature.

  • Store uncovered or lightly covered for up to 5 days at room temperature.

  • Air Fryer Baklava Q&A

    🔸 Q: Can I use canned or pre-chopped nuts?

    A: Yes! Just ensure they’re finely chopped so they layer easily and evenly.

    🔸 Q: Why should I cut before baking?

    A: It’s nearly impossible to cut crisp, baked phyllo neatly. Pre-cutting makes clean slices and allows syrup to seep through each piece.

    🔸 Q: Do I need to use clarified butter?

    A: Regular unsalted butter works, but clarified butter (or ghee) yields crispier layers and less sogginess since it removes the water content.

    🔸 Q: Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

    A: Yes. You can substitute with maple syrup or agave for a different flavor profile, especially if making it vegan.

    🔸 Q: Can I make this vegan?

    A: Absolutely! Use plant-based butter and substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The result is still crispy and delicious.

    🔸 Q: Can I make mini baklava bites in muffin tins or ramekins?

    A: Yes! Use mini pans or silicone muffin liners in the air fryer. Reduce the cooking time to 12–15 minutes and watch closely.

    🔸 Q: How do I know when it’s done in the air fryer?

    A: The top will be deeply golden and crisp, and it should sound crackly when tapped. Syrup will bubble slightly when poured.

    🔸 Q: What’s the best way to reheat baklava?

    A: No need! Baklava is best at room temperature. Reheating can cause it to lose crispness.

    ✅ Pro Tips:

    • Keep phyllo covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.

    • Don’t skimp on the butter—it’s key for that flaky texture.

    • Let it sit uncovered after adding syrup to keep the top crisp.

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