Branch's Berry Bro-Down Baklava

Directions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with some melted butter.
2. 2

   In a bowl, combine the chopped nuts, cinnamon, and cardamom.
3. 3

   Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared pan, brush lightly with melted butter. Repeat with 8-10 more sheets, layering and buttering each. Trim edges if necessary.
4. 4

   Spread about one-third of the nut mixture evenly over the buttered phyllo sheets.
5. 5

   Layer 3-4 more phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter. Top with another third of the nut mixture.
6. 6

   Repeat with 3-4 more buttered phyllo sheets and the remaining nut mixture.
7. 7

   Top with the remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each generously with butter. Ensure the top layer is well-buttered.
8. 8

   Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, cutting all the way through to the bottom.
9. 9

   Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
10. 10

    While baklava bakes, prepare the berry syrup: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
11. 11

    Add the pureed berries and lemon juice, reduce heat, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until slightly thickened.
12. 12

    Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool completely.
13. 13

    Once baklava is out of the oven, immediately and slowly pour the cooled berry syrup over the hot baklava, ensuring it soaks into all the cut crevices.
14. 14

    Let the baklava cool completely in the pan for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving to allow the syrup to fully absorb.