Dolama Baklava Recipe

Dolama Baklava Recipe: A Spiraled Delight of Turkish Pastry

Dolama Baklava is a mouthwatering variation of the beloved baklava, recognized for its signature spiral shape and rich flavors. This Turkish dessert maintains the classic combination of crispy filo dough, sweet syrup, and nutty filling but offers a unique twist in its appearance and preparation. With its intricate spiral design, Dolama Baklava is perfect for those who want to experience a new, delightful take on traditional baklava while enjoying the same irresistible taste and texture.

What is Dolama Baklava?

Dolama Baklava is a variation of baklava where the filo dough is rolled into tight spirals or coils, creating a beautiful presentation. The dessert’s name comes from the Turkish word “dolama,” which means “rolled” or “twisted.” Like traditional baklava, it consists of thin layers of filo dough (yufka), butter, ground nuts, and a sweet syrup that soaks into the pastry, making it incredibly moist and flavorful. The spiral shape not only gives it a distinctive look but also allows for a delicious contrast between the crispy outer layers and the softer, syrupy center.

Ingredients:

• For the Baklava:

  • 400g filo dough (yufka)
  • 250g unsalted butter, melted
  • 300g ground pistachios, walnuts, or almonds
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

• For the Syrup:

  • 400g sugar
  • 300ml water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Syrup: Start by making the syrup, as it needs to cool before being poured over the baklava. Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in honey for added richness, if desired. Set the syrup aside to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Filo Dough (Yufka): Lay a sheet of filo dough on a flat surface and brush it generously with melted butter. Sprinkle a mixture of ground nuts and sugar evenly over the dough. Optionally, you can add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth and flavor.
3. Roll the Dough: Starting from one end, tightly roll the filo dough into a log, creating a long, cylindrical shape. Then, take the rolled dough and coil it into a spiral, similar to the shape of a snail shell. Place each spiral onto a greased baking tray. Repeat this process with the remaining filo dough and nut mixture.
4. Bake the Dolama Baklava: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the spirals for 20-25 minutes or until the filo dough turns golden brown and crispy.
5. Add the Syrup: Once the Dolama Baklava is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup over the hot pastry. The hot baklava will absorb the syrup, making it soft and moist while still maintaining its crispy layers. Allow the baklava to sit for a few hours to fully absorb the syrup.
6. Serve: Once the baklava has absorbed the syrup, it’s ready to serve. The spiraled shape creates beautiful, bite-sized pieces that are perfect for any occasion.

Tips for Making Perfect Dolama Baklava:

• Work Quickly with Filo Dough: Filo dough dries out very quickly, so make sure to keep it covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from cracking.
• Generously Butter the Dough: Brushing each layer with melted butter is key to getting that crisp, golden texture in your baklava.
• Let the Syrup Cool: Always use cooled syrup on hot baklava to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.

Why Try Dolama Baklava?

Dolama Baklava is an excellent variation of traditional baklava, offering a unique shape and texture while retaining the deliciously sweet and nutty flavors. The spiral shape makes it a visually stunning dessert that is sure to impress guests at any gathering. Plus, the tight rolls allow for an even distribution of nuts and syrup, making each bite perfectly balanced.

For those who enjoy classic baklava but are looking to try something new, Dolama Baklava offers the best of both worlds: familiar flavors with a creative twist. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this dessert is sure to become a favorite.

Conclusion:

Dolama Baklava is a delightful and elegant variation of the classic Turkish dessert, perfect for anyone looking to try a new version of baklava. With its spiraled shape, crispy layers, and sweet nutty filling, this dessert is as delicious as it is beautiful. The combination of flaky filo dough, rich butter, and sweet syrup makes Dolama Baklava a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to Turkish sweets, this recipe is sure to impress both in taste and presentation.