Here's how to make Turkish Baklava at home in a few simple steps.

Prepare the Nut Filling, take your chopped nuts and mix them with cinnamon if using. This will be your sweet, nutty filling for the layers.

Layer the Phyllo Sheets, grease a baking dish with melted butter place one sheet of phyllo at the bottom and brush it generously with butter Keep layering and brushing every sheet until you have 6 to 8 sheets add a layer of the nut mixture then repeat the layering process alternating between nuts and pastry The top layer should be 6 to 8 sheets thick.

Cut the Baklava, using a sharp knife, cut the layered baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking. this step is important, as cutting after baking can break the delicate layers.

Bake, preheat your oven to 175°C or 350°F and bake the baklava for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown and crisp on top.

Prepare the Syrup, while the baklava bakes, make the syrup by combining sugar, water, lemon juice, and honey in a pan. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Let it cool a bit, but not completely.

Pour the Syrup, as soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, slowly pour the warm syrup over it. make sure to cover all pieces. let it soak for at least 4 to 6 hours or overnight for best results.