Name: Baklava Dessert Focaccia
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: For the Dough:; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 2 cups lukewarm water; 1 teaspoon sugar; 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour; 1½ teaspoons salt; ¼ cup olive oil (plus more for greasing and drizzling); For the Baklava Topping:; ½ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped; ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness); For the Honey Syrup:; ½ cup honey; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons water; Optional: Dash of orange blossom water or rosewater

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A sweet twist on classic focaccia — this golden, crisp baklava dessert focaccia is topped with crunchy nuts, warming spices, and a luscious honey syrup inspired by baklava. Perfect for dessert, brunch, or a special treat, this creative fusion is as stunning as it is delicious.

Baklava Dessert Focaccia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines the chewy texture of focaccia with the sweet crunch of baklava.
Perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and spiced flavors.
Eye-catching and elegant for gatherings or gifting.
Customizable with your favorite nuts or spices.
Delicious warm or at room temperature.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

2 teaspoons instant yeast
2 cups lukewarm water
1 teaspoon sugar
4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons salt
¼ cup olive oil (plus more for greasing and drizzling)

For the Baklava Topping:

½ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1–2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

For the Honey Syrup:

½ cup honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons water
Optional: Dash of orange blossom water or rosewater

Directions

Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine lukewarm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Cover with a clean towel and let rise at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Nut Topping: In a small bowl, mix pistachios, walnuts, cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and brown sugar (if using). Set aside.
Shape and Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously oil a 9×13-inch baking pan. Transfer risen dough to the pan. Gently stretch it to the edges and let rest for 20–30 minutes. Dimple the surface with your fingers and drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top. Evenly sprinkle the nut mixture over the dough, pressing lightly to help it stick. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Make the Honey Syrup: While the focaccia bakes, combine honey, lemon juice, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until slightly thickened. Stir in orange blossom water or rosewater, if using.
Finish and Serve: Once baked, drizzle the warm focaccia generously with the honey syrup. Let it soak in for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Rest Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Variations

Nut-Free: Top with dried fruit like figs or apricots instead of nuts.
Spiced Syrup: Add cardamom pods or cinnamon stick while simmering the syrup.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top after baking.
Citrus Zest: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough or topping.
Vegan Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store cooled focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough overnight and bring it to room temperature before baking.

What if I don’t have pistachios?

Use almonds, pecans, or all walnuts instead.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Try a gluten-free focaccia dough mix as a substitute.

Do I need orange blossom or rosewater?

No, but they add a beautiful floral note. Optional and customizable.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, use plain pizza or focaccia dough to save time.

Is this served as dessert or brunch?

Both! It’s great as a sweet brunch item or light dessert.

How do I know when the focaccia is done?

It should be deeply golden and crisp on the bottom and edges.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Partially, yes. Replace up to 50% of the flour with whole wheat.

What’s the best way to slice and serve?

Let it cool slightly, then use a serrated knife for clean slices.

Can I add more sweeteners?

Yes, drizzle with extra syrup or dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Conclusion

Baklava dessert focaccia brings together the rich, nutty flavors of a classic Middle Eastern pastry with the satisfying chew of Italian bread. With its honey-soaked topping and crisp edges, it’s a showstopping treat perfect for sharing at any celebration or cozy gathering.