Orange Custard Baklava Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
• STEP 2.In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
• STEP 3.Remove from heat and stir in the orange juice and vanilla extract.
• STEP 4.Layer half of the phyllo sheets in the baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
• STEP 5.Spread the orange custard evenly over the phyllo sheets.
• STEP 6.Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
• STEP 7.Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
• STEP 8.Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
• STEP 9.While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup by combining sugar, water, and orange juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
• STEP 10.Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over it.
• STEP 11.Allow the baklava to cool completely before serving. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure to brush each phyllo sheet with melted butter to achieve a crispy and golden crust.
• To prevent the phyllo sheets from drying out, cover them with a damp kitchen towel while working.
• For a nutty variation, you can sprinkle chopped pistachios or walnuts between the layers of phyllo sheets.

Storage and Serving

• Allow the baklava to cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Serve the baklava as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Store any leftover baklava in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.