Description
Delight in these Sweet & Crunchy Pecan Caramel Baklava Cups, a delectable twist on traditional baklava. Crisp phyllo dough layered and baked to golden perfection, filled with a spiced pecan mixture, and topped with luscious caramel sauce and optional pistachios for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Ideal for entertaining or a special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Phyllo Cups
- 20 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)
- 12 whole pecans (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin to prevent sticking.
- Cut Phyllo Sheets: Cut the thawed phyllo dough sheets into 3×3 inch squares. Cover them with a damp towel to keep them from drying out and becoming brittle while working.
- Layer Phyllo in Muffin Tin: In each muffin cup, layer 5 phyllo squares, offsetting each layer to create a star shape. Brush each phyllo layer generously with melted butter to ensure they bake crispy and golden.
- Prepare Nut Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined to create a flavorful filling.
- Fill Phyllo Cups: Spoon approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons of the pecan mixture into each phyllo-lined muffin cup. Press gently down so the filling packs into the bottom.
- Bake: Bake the baklava cups in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Add Caramel: Remove from the oven and allow the cups to cool for about 10 minutes. Then, drizzle each cup with caramel sauce for a rich, sweet finish.
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle chopped pistachios over the caramel and top each cup with a whole pecan for extra texture and visual appeal.
- Serve: These baklava cups can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to one month to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Handle phyllo dough carefully as it is delicate and dries out quickly; keeping it covered with a damp towel is important.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the nut filling.
- Use high-quality caramel sauce for the best taste, or make your own at home.
- To re-crisp stored baklava cups, warm them slightly in the oven before serving.
- These cups can be customized by substituting pecans with walnuts or mixed nuts according to preference.
