Apple Pie Baklava with Maple Syrup

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Buttery layers of crisp phyllo, warmly spiced apples, and a crunchy walnut filling come together in this unforgettable twist on a classic dessert. Apple Pie Baklava with Maple Syrup is exactly what happens when autumn coziness meets Mediterranean indulgence.

This dessert takes the nostalgic flavors of an all-American apple pie and infuses them into a flaky, honeyed baklava. With each bite, you get the comforting cinnamon-apple filling wrapped in golden, syrup-drenched layers. It’s the perfect recipe for holiday tables, potlucks, or when you want to impress with something just a little different.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Baklava with Maple Syrup

This recipe fuses two classic desserts into one unique creation. It’s ideal for those who love the spiced comfort of apple pie and the buttery crunch of baklava. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the syrup soaks in. Expect crisp, gooey, nutty, and sweet all in one bite.

What Kind of Phyllo Dough Should I Use?

Use traditional phyllo dough, not puff pastry. Look for it in the freezer section near pie crusts. Thawed phyllo can be delicate and prone to drying out, so keep it covered with a damp towel while assembling. A standard 16-ounce package of phyllo dough is perfect for this recipe.

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Ingredients for the Apple Pie Baklava with Maple Syrup

Phyllo Dough

The star of the texture show. These ultra-thin pastry sheets crisp up into a shattering, golden top and base.

Apples (2 cups finely chopped)

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a bright, slightly sour note that balances the syrupy sweetness.

Walnuts (1 cup chopped)

Traditional to baklava and essential for a rich, nutty crunch in the filling.

Brown Sugar (1/2 cup packed)

Adds caramel-like depth to the apple-walnut mixture.

Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp)

The backbone spice of both apple pie and baklava. Adds warmth and coziness.

Ground Nutmeg (1/4 tsp)

Enhances the cinnamon and gives the filling a fall-inspired kick.

Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup melted)

You’ll need it to brush between all those flaky layers. Don’t skimp!

Maple Syrup (1 cup pure maple syrup)

Poured over the baked baklava, it seeps into every nook for a sticky-sweet finish.

Lemon Juice (1 tbsp)

Adds brightness and balances the sweet syrup.

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How To Make the Apple Pie Baklava with Maple Syrup

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together 2 cups chopped apples, 1 cup chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Baklava Layers

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

Place one phyllo sheet in the dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat with 7 more sheets, brushing each with butter.

Spread half of the apple-walnut mixture evenly over the phyllo.

Add 8 more buttered phyllo sheets on top.

Spread the remaining apple filling, then top with the final 8 buttered sheets of phyllo.

Step 3: Cut Before Baking

Using a sharp knife, cut the unbaked baklava into diamond or square shapes.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Add the Maple Syrup

While it bakes, heat 1 cup maple syrup with 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a small saucepan until just simmering.

Immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot baklava once out of the oven.

Let cool completely to allow the syrup to soak in.

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How to Serve and Store This Apple Pie Baklava

This recipe yields about 24 small squares, perfect for serving 12 to 16 people.

Serve slightly warm or at room temperature with a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw at room temp.

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What to Serve With Apple Pie Baklava?

1. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Its creamy texture balances the crunch of the baklava.

2. Spiced Chai Latte

The warm spices in chai beautifully echo the cinnamon and nutmeg.

3. Whipped Cream with Maple Drizzle

Light, fluffy, and just sweet enough to complement.

4. Aged Cheddar Cheese

The salty sharpness pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.

5. Caramel Sauce

For extra indulgence, drizzle a little on top when serving.

6. Fresh Berries

Add color and a tart contrast to the rich baklava.

7. Greek Yogurt with Honey

A tangy counterpart that adds creaminess and balance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s best to make it the day before. The syrup needs time to fully soak into the layers.

What’s the best apple to use?

Granny Smith is ideal for its tartness, but Honeycrisp or Braeburn also work well.

Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?

Definitely. Pecans or pistachios make great substitutes or additions.

Is it okay to skip the lemon juice?

It’s not required, but it helps cut the sweetness and brighten the flavor.

How do I prevent soggy baklava?

Always pour the hot syrup over the freshly baked baklava. This contrast in temperature helps retain crisp layers.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use pecans instead of walnuts? Try a dash of cardamom? Maybe swapped maple syrup for honey? I love hearing your tweaks.

Got questions? Drop them below so we can bake smarter together.

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Conclusion

Apple Pie Baklava with Maple Syrup is where flaky layers meet nostalgic comfort. It’s elegant, unexpected, and rich with texture and warmth. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just love apple desserts, this one deserves a place in your baking rotation.

Want more cozy and creative dessert ideas? Check out my latest creations like Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies, Salted Caramel Apple Pie, and Red Velvet Cake Roll to inspire your next baking day.

For more ideas and daily recipes, follow me on Pinterest at Meals We Share.

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