Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2

Pulse the walnuts in a food processor with the cinnamon, cardamom, and salt until well chopped.

Step 3

To assemble the baklava, place 8 layers of phyllo dough one-by-one on the bottom of a 9x13 baking pan, brushing each lightly with butter.

Step 4

Spread 1/5 of the walnut mixture evenly on top (about 2/3 cup).

Step 5

Add another 5 layers of phyllo one-by-one, brushing each with butter, then add another layer of nuts. The total sequence should be phyllo layers of 8,5,5,5,5,8, with nuts in between those layers.

Step 6

Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into whatever shape you desire (diamonds, squares, triangles, etc). See blog post for picture.

Step 7

Bake the baklava for 50 minutes, until golden on the edges and tops. Then let cool for at least 15 minutes.

Step 8

In the meantime, bring all the syrup ingredients to a boil in a saucepan, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 9

Remove the citrus peels and cinnamon stick, and pour the hot syrup evenly over the baklava.

Step 10

Let the baklava cool completely at room temperature for 8 hours (uncovered, to prevent sogginess). Then it's ready to enjoy!