Pistachio Rose Baklava Rolls

Pistachio Rose Baklava Rolls are a fragrant and elegant twist on the traditional Middle Eastern dessert. These rolls are crafted from layers of buttery phyllo pastry filled with finely ground pistachios and lightly perfumed with rose water. Once baked, they are soaked in a golden honey-rose syrup that enhances their rich texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These baklava rolls offer a beautifully balanced taste—nutty, floral, sweet, and crisp. Unlike traditional tray-style baklava, their rolled shape makes them perfect for individual servings or gift boxes. They’re ideal for holidays, tea time, or any occasion where you want to present something truly special with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Phyllo dough sheets, thawed
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Ground pistachios
• Granulated sugar
• Ground cardamom (optional)
• Rose water
• Honey
• Water
• Lemon juice
• Crushed dried rose petals (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a rectangular baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, combine ground pistachios, sugar, and cardamom (if using).
3. Lay one sheet of phyllo on a flat surface. Brush with melted butter. Layer with another sheet and brush again.
4. Sprinkle a thin line of pistachio mixture along one long edge. Roll tightly into a log.
5. Cut the log into 2- to 3-inch pieces and place seam-side down in the prepared dish.
6. Repeat with remaining phyllo and filling.
7. Brush tops with more melted butter and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
8. While baking, prepare syrup by simmering honey, water, sugar, lemon juice, and rose water for 10 minutes.
9. Once rolls are baked, pour warm syrup over them. Let sit until fully absorbed.
10. Garnish with extra crushed pistachios and dried rose petals if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 baklava rolls. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, baking takes 30 minutes, and resting for syrup absorption requires 20–30 minutes, totaling around 1.5 hours.

Variations

• Use a mix of nuts such as almonds or walnuts.
• Add orange blossom water in place of or alongside rose water.
• Add a small amount of cinnamon to the nut mixture for warmth.
• Drizzle with white chocolate for a modern twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store baklava rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Do not refrigerate as this may cause the pastry to lose its crisp texture.
They can be frozen before adding syrup; thaw and warm in the oven, then soak in fresh syrup before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pistachios?

Yes, just make sure they are unsalted and finely ground for the best texture.

Is rose water necessary?

It’s highly recommended for the floral profile, but you may omit or substitute with vanilla or orange blossom water.

How do I keep phyllo from tearing?

Work quickly and keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel while assembling.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, they can be baked and soaked up to two days in advance. Flavor improves with time.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Reduce the amount of syrup or use less sugar in the nut filling to suit your taste.

How can I prevent sogginess?

Allow the syrup to be fully absorbed and avoid stacking the rolls when storing.

Can I use clarified butter?

Yes, clarified butter (ghee) works well and can help keep the pastry crisper.

Are these suitable for gifting?

Absolutely. Once fully cooled, they package beautifully in tins or boxes with parchment layers.

Can I bake them in mini muffin tins?

Yes, just cut the rolls slightly smaller and place them in greased muffin wells before baking.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

They should be deeply golden and crisp. Avoid underbaking, as this can lead to sogginess after adding syrup.

Conclusion

Pistachio Rose Baklava Rolls are a beautifully crafted dessert that combines traditional flavors with a modern presentation. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, these sweet and nutty treats are perfect for festive occasions, gatherings, or an indulgent personal treat. Every bite is crisp, fragrant, and irresistibly delicious.

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