Apple Baklava

Instructions

1. 1

   Sauteing the apples first to let the water evaporate ensures a crisp crust. 6 Golden Delicious apples 6 Granny Smith apples 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 6 tablespoons granulated sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Nut Mixture 2 1/2 cups walnuts, chopped 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 24 sheets phyllo dough 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons plain dry bread crumbs 2 tablespoons honey Apple Layer: Peel and slice apples.

2. 2

   Melt butter in Dutch oven over high heat.

3. 3

   Add apples, sugar and cinnamon; cook, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender and juices are evaporated, 15 to 20 minutes.

4. 4

   Nut Mixture: Combine all ingredients in small bowl.

5. 5

   Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

6. 6

   Trim phyllo sheets to 13 x 9-inch rectangles; cover with plastic wrap.

7. 7

   Brush a 13 x 9-inch metal baking pan with butter.

8. 8

   Place 1 phyllo sheet in pan and brush with some of the melted butter (keep remaining phyllo covered).

9. 9

   Layer 5 more phyllo sheets on top, brushing each with butter.

10. 10

    Spread 2 cups nut mixture on top and repeat layering with 6 more phyllo sheets and butter.

11. 11

    Spread apple mixture on top; repeat layering with 6 more phyllo sheets and butter.

12. 12

    Sprinkle remaining nut mixture on top; sprinkle with bread crumbs and layer with the 6 remaining phyllo sheets and butter.

13. 13

    With sharp knife, cut lengthwise through pastry and filling into 1 1/2 inch-wide strips, then cut diagonally at 2-inch intervals to make diamonds.

14. 14

    Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until golden.

15. 15

    Drizzle honey on top and bake 5 minutes more.

16. 16

    Cool in pan on wire rack.

17. 17

    Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped or ice cream.