My Gooey Golden Baklava Recipe Showstopper Dessert

Instructions:

1. Combine sugar, water, honey, lemon juice, orange blossom water (if using), and cinnamon stick (if using) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Remove cinnamon stick.
2. In a bowl, combine chopped nuts, cinnamon, cloves (if using), and sugar. Mix well.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the bottom and sides of the baking pan with melted butter.
4. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the pan and brush with melted butter. Repeat with 5-6 more sheets.
5. Spread half of the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
6. Add 5-6 more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter.
7. Spread the remaining nut mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
8. Top with the remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each with melted butter. Be sure to use all remaining phyllo layers.
9. Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. Cut all the way to the bottom of the pan.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Immediately upon removing the baklava from the oven, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
12. Let the baklava cool completely (at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight) before serving. This allows the syrup to fully absorb into the pastry.