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When it comes to dessert, few treats capture the essence of celebration quite like Greek Baklava Rolls, known as saragli. As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of melted butter mingling with warm spices transported me to the sun-drenched streets of Greece, where these crispy delights are a staple. Just imagine golden layers of delicate phyllo enveloping a nutty filling of walnuts and almonds, all drenched in a luscious syrup infused with zesty lemon and the warmth of cinnamon. Perfectly sweet and irresistibly crunchy, these baklava rolls are not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight that can elevate any gathering.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to indulge in a comforting homemade treat, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between tradition and ease. With a few simple steps, you can recreate this beloved Greek dessert that captures the heart and soul of Mediterranean sweetness. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the delightful world of crispy Greek Baklava Rolls!

Why Love These Greek Baklava Rolls (Saragli)?

Irresistible and Crispy: These Greek Baklava Rolls, or Saragli, offer a delightful crunch with every bite, thanks to the perfectly baked phyllo layers.

Nutty Flavor: The combination of walnuts and almonds wrapped within provides a rich, satisfying texture that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Aromatic Syrup: Each roll is generously drizzled with a fragrant syrup infused with lemon and cinnamon, creating a sweet and zesty finish that’s hard to resist.

Homey Comfort: Easily made in your kitchen, they bring a touch of Mediterranean magic right to your dining table, perfect for cozy evenings or festive celebrations.

Versatile Appeal: Whether shared at a party or savored solo with coffee, these rolls are sure to impress both guests and family alike.

Indulge in the joy of making your own Greek Baklava Rolls and bring a slice of Greek culture into your home!

Greek Baklava Rolls Ingredients

For the Rolls

Phyllo Dough (450g / 16oz) – Essential for achieving the signature crispy texture; use 2-3 sheets for optimal layers.
Butter (unsalted, melted) – Adds buttery richness; you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter, vegan-friendly version.
Nuts (walnuts and almonds, 240g / 8.5oz) – Brings a delightful nutty flavor; consider using pistachios for a unique twist.

For the Syrup

Sugar (180g / 6.5oz) – The main sweetener for your syrup; balances the nuttiness of the baklava.
Water (240ml / 1 cup) – Creates the base for the syrup, ensuring even sweetness.
Lemon Juice and Zest (from 1 lemon) – Infuses freshness and brightness into the syrup; essential for a zesty kick.
Cinnamon (3/4 tsp) – Adds warmth and aromatic depth; an absolute must for traditional flavor.
Ground Clove (1/4 tsp) – Introduces a subtle spiciness; use sparingly to avoid overpowering other flavors.
Thyme Honey (optional) – Enhances the syrup with a touch of floral sweetness; a delightful addition if you have it on hand.

Dive into the world of these delightful Greek Baklava Rolls (Saragli) and let their crispy, nutty allure carry you away!

How to Make Greek Baklava Rolls

Prepare the Syrup: In a medium pot, combine sugar, water, lemon zest, lemon juice, cinnamon, and ground clove. Boil everything together, then simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened. Let it cool before using.
Mix the Filling: Chop the walnuts and almonds into a combination of fine and coarse pieces. Combine them with cinnamon and clove in a bowl for a rich, nutty filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Layer the Phyllo: Sprinkle melted butter between two to three sheets of phyllo dough. Repeat until you have about 5-6 sheets ready, making sure to cover the remaining dough to prevent it from drying out.
Add the Filling: Spread 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the nut mixture evenly across the width of the phyllo. Roll tightly from one end to the other, using skewers if desired for a neat shape.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 150-160°C (300-320°F). Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for about 70 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
Syrup Application: Ladle the cooled syrup over the hot baklava rolls immediately after baking. Allow each ladleful to soak in before adding more, ensuring the rolls absorb the sweetness.

Optional: Sprinkle with chopped pistachios for added texture and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Greek Baklava Rolls

Room Temperature: Store Greek Baklava Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week for optimal texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the rolls for up to 2 weeks. The cold may soften their crispiness, so cover them loosely to minimize moisture.

Freezer: For best preservation, freeze the unbaked rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect results.

Reheating: To reheat leftovers, simply warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispy texture before serving.

Expert Tips for Greek Baklava Rolls

Phyllo Handling: Keep your phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out while you work. This ensures it stays pliable for easy rolling.
Nut Texture: For the best filling, chop nuts into a mix of fine and coarse pieces. Avoid pulverizing them to maintain a delightful crunch in your Greek Baklava Rolls.
Cooling The Syrup: Remember, always use cooled syrup on hot baklava. This helps retain the crispy texture without making them soggy.
Rolling Technique: Roll tightly but gently to ensure even cooking. If using skewers, they can help maintain the shape during the baking process.
Baking Temperature: Bake at a low temperature for a longer time to achieve an even golden color without burning the phyllo layers. If they brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Greek Baklava Rolls Variations

Embrace your creativity and make these delightful Greek Baklava Rolls truly your own with these exciting twists!

Nutty Twist: Swap walnuts and almonds for a mix of pistachios and hazelnuts for a unique flavor profile. The vibrant green hue of pistachios adds a beautiful touch!
Spice Infusion: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for an extra depth of warmth. This subtle spice will intertwine beautifully with the cinnamon.
Zesty Surprise: Incorporate orange zest into the syrup for a citrusy brightness. It elevates the traditional recipe, making each bite feel like a celebration of flavors.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. You’ll achieve a delightful flavor while keeping the crispiness intact.
Floral Note: Add a splash of rose water to the syrup for a fragrant touch. This unexpected twist brings a beautiful perfume and pairs wonderfully with the nutty filling.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled rolls for a rich and decadent touch. This fusion of flavors will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Crunchy Topping: Before pouring the syrup, sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds on top of the rolls to add a crunchy layer that complements the soft interior.
Heat Factor: For those who love a kick, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the nut mixture. It creates an exciting contrast to the sweetness of the baklava.

Let your culinary imagination take flight as you explore these delightful variations!

What to Serve with Greek Baklava Rolls (Saragli)?

Indulging in these flaky delights invites a charming meal experience that captures the essence of Greek gatherings.

Greek Coffee: The robust flavor and slight bitterness of Greek coffee pairs beautifully, cutting through the sweetness of the baklava.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm, syrupy rolls, creating a textural joy with every bite.
Fresh Citrus Salad: The brightness of a citrus salad refreshes the palate, balancing the rich nutty sweetness of the dessert.
Minted Yogurt Dip: This cool, creamy dip offers a refreshing contrast and can enhance the aromatic notes of the baklava rolls.
Pistachio Crumble: Sprinkle finely chopped pistachios on top for added crunch and a pop of color; they amplify the nutty goodness within.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, especially chamomile or mint, complements the fragrant flavors and creates a comforting finish.
Honey Drizzle: A simple drizzle of local honey enhances the natural sweetness and adds a sticky, luxurious touch that ties everything together.

Make Ahead Options

These Greek Baklava Rolls (Saragli) are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing for delicious dessert preparation ahead of time! You can prepare the filling and syrup up to 3 days in advance; simply store the filling in an airtight container and refrigerate the syrup until needed. Additionally, you can assemble the rolls and freeze them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, place them directly in the oven from the freezer, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time. This way, you’ll have homemade baklava rolls on the table with minimal effort, all while ensuring they remain just as crispy and flavorful!

Greek Baklava Rolls (Saragli) Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best phyllo dough for my baklava?
Absolutely! Look for phyllo dough that is fresh and free of tears. The package should not have any dark spots or damage. It should also be kept frozen until ready to use. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before you begin your baklava journey, ensuring even pliability while layering.

How should I store leftover Greek Baklava Rolls?
Very! To maintain their delightful texture, store the Greek Baklava Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks, but be aware that this can soften their crispiness. For best results, cover them loosely to reduce moisture absorption.

Can these baklava rolls be frozen?
Absolutely! To freeze, prepare the rolls but do not bake them. Place the unbaked rolls in a single layer in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and they will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for perfectly golden results.

What should I do if my baklava rolls are too soggy after baking?
If you find your baklava rolls are soggy, it’s possible that the syrup was too hot when applied, or they were not baked long enough. Make sure to always pour cold syrup over hot baklava. If they are already soggy, you can place them back in a low oven (about 150°C/300°F) for 10-15 minutes to help crisp them up a bit.

Are Greek Baklava Rolls suitable for those with nut allergies?
Absolutely! Since these delicious rolls primarily contain nuts, they may not be suitable for those with nut allergies. However, you can try using seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a substitute for nuts, adjusting the recipe accordingly. Always ensure your kitchen tools and utensils are free from cross-contamination with nuts to guarantee safety.

Can I make a vegan version of Greek Baklava Rolls?
Yes! For a vegan version, simply substitute the unsalted butter with melted coconut oil or olive oil. Ensure that the phyllo dough you choose is vegan as some brands may contain animal products. With these simple adjustments, you can enjoy delicious Greek Baklava Rolls without any animal products!