Hey there my friend 
. If you love baklava but want a fun, easy twist, then you are in for a treat. Instead of phyllo dough, I use English muffins to make the layers buttery and crisp. The best part? This version comes together faster and is just as delicious.
And oh, by the way, my secret syrup ratio makes it perfectly sweet without being too sugary. Let’s get started.
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and/or equipment you need to make this recipe:
- Baking dish (8×8-inch or similar)
- Sharp knife
- Pastry brush
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Important Info
- Servings: 9 squares
- Estimated Cost to make this recipe: Around $8-$12, depending on ingredient quality
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Additional time: 30 minutes for syrup absorption
- Calories per serving: About 220 calories
- Cook method: Baking
- Season: All year round
- Courses: Dessert, Snack
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
- Diets: VegetarianDiet
How to Make English Muffin Baklava
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this delicacy and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- 4 English muffins, split in half
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Walnuts | Almonds or pecans |
| Pistachios | Hazelnuts or cashews |
| Honey | Maple syrup |
| Butter | Coconut oil |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish lightly with butter or oil.
- Slice and toast the English muffins. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and toast for 5 minutes until slightly crisp.
- Prepare the nut filling. In a bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, pistachios, cinnamon, and salt.
- Layer the baklava. Place 2 English muffin halves at the bottom of the baking dish. Brush them with melted butter, then sprinkle a generous layer of the nut mixture. Repeat until you finish all the muffins and nuts, ending with a muffin layer.
- Cut before baking. Use a sharp knife to cut into 9 squares. This helps the syrup soak in better.
- Bake for 25 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the edges slightly crisp.
- Make the syrup. While the baklava bakes, heat honey, water, and sugar in a saucepan. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and mix in the vanilla.
- Pour the syrup over hot baklava. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to soak up all that goodness.
Helpful Tips
- Toasting the English muffins first makes them hold the syrup better without getting too soggy.
- Let the baklava sit for a few hours (or overnight) for the best flavor.
- If you like extra crunch, toast the nuts before using them.
- Use a serrated knife for cutting to keep the layers intact.
- Store leftovers at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to a week.
What to Serve with English Muffin Baklava
This baklava pairs well with a cup of hot tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you love contrast, serve it with Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness.
How Do You Serve the Recipe?
I like serving these in small squares on a dessert plate. A drizzle of extra honey or a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top makes it look fancy. If you want to impress guests, serve each square with a mint leaf.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
This is perfect for casual get-togethers, brunches, and holiday parties. Since it’s already portioned, it’s easy to serve at events where guests grab-and-go. It also works well for picnics because it doesn’t melt or need refrigeration right away.
Storage
Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature)
- Keep the baklava in an airtight container at room temperature.
- It stays fresh for up to 2 days if kept in a cool, dry place.
Refrigeration
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating.
Freezing
- Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day before serving. The flavors get better as it sits, so overnight rest is ideal.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, but it won’t have the same texture. Croissants or brioche can work, but they might get too soft.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the honey and sugar in the syrup by half. You can also use more nuts and less syrup for a nuttier taste.
Can I add chocolate to this?
Yes, you can sprinkle some mini chocolate chips between the layers or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
Is this a family-friendly recipe?
Yes, kids love the sweet, nutty flavors. You can even get them involved in layering the ingredients.
Meta Description
This English Muffin Baklava Recipe gives you all the flavors of traditional baklava in an easier, faster version. A crispy, nutty dessert with a sweet honey syrup.