Baklava Crinkle Rolls (Saragli)

Ingredients

• 1 pound (#4) phyllo, thawed and at room temperature
• 3/4 pound unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon rosewater
• 2 teaspoons vanilla + 1 cinnamon stick + 3 cloves
• 2 teaspoons vanilla + juice of half a lemon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla + juice of half an orange + peel of an orange
• For the Nut Filling:
• 1 cup walnuts, ground
• 1 cup almonds, ground
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Ground pistachios
• Chocolate ganache: 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream + 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate

Instructions

1. 1

   In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cinnamon...: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cinnamon stick.

2. 2

   Bring to a boil, then reduce to a...: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Remove from heat, discard the cinnamon stick, and...: Remove from heat, discard the cinnamon stick, and stir in vanilla extract.

4. 4

   If using, add rosewater or another flavor variation....: If using, add rosewater or another flavor variation. Let the syrup cool completely.

5. 5

   In a bowl, mix the walnuts, almonds, cinnamon,...: In a bowl, mix the walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, and cloves.

6. 6

   Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).

7. 7

   Lay one sheet of phyllo on a clean...: Lay one sheet of phyllo on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter.

8. 8

   Sprinkle a layer of the nut filling over...: Sprinkle a layer of the nut filling over the entire sheet.

9. 9

   Place another sheet of phyllo on top, brush...: Place another sheet of phyllo on top, brush with butter, and sprinkle with more nuts.

10. 10

    Using a long thin rod (like a wooden...: Using a long thin rod (like a wooden dowel or skewer), roll up the phyllo loosely from one end to the other.

11. 11

    Push the ends toward the center to create...: Push the ends toward the center to create a crinkled effect.

12. 12

    Carefully slide off the rod and place in...: Carefully slide off the rod and place in a buttered 9 by 13-inch baking dish.

13. 13

    Repeat with the remaining phyllo and filling.

14. 14

    Cut the rows into thirds.

15. 15

    Brush the tops of the rolls generously with...: Brush the tops of the rolls generously with melted butter.

16. 16

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

17. 17

    As soon as the rolls come out of...: As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, pour the cooled syrup evenly over them.

18. 18

    Let them soak for at least 1-2 hours...: Let them soak for at least 1-2 hours before serving.

19. 19

    Sprinkle with ground pistachios or drizzle with chocolate...: Sprinkle with ground pistachios or drizzle with chocolate ganache.

20. 20

    Enjoy!