Air Fryer Baklava

Crispy, flaky, and dripping with sweet honey syrup, this Air Fryer Baklava brings the magic of a classic Mediterranean dessert right to your kitchen—no oven needed! Layers of buttery phyllo and spiced nuts crisp up perfectly in the air fryer for a quicker, easier take on this indulgent treat. It’s rich, golden, and absolutely irresistible.

If you love traditional baklava but dread the long bake time, this Air Fryer Baklava recipe is a game-changer. With golden, crisp layers of buttery phyllo dough, a spiced walnut filling, and a drizzle of homemade honey syrup, this version captures all the rich, nutty flavor of the original in a fraction of the time.

Using the air fryer creates that signature crispy texture without heating up the whole kitchen—perfect for a sweet treat any day of the week. Whether you’re entertaining or craving something special, this easy shortcut doesn’t skimp on flavor or indulgence.

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Dessert Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER CINNAMON STICKY BUNS, AIR FRYER CINNAMON CHURRO BITES, AIR FRYER APPLE PIE BOMBS, AIR FRYER BEST CHERRY TURNOVERS, and AIR FRYER NUTELLA CROISSANTS.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy Perfection Every Time – The air fryer delivers golden, flaky layers without the need for a traditional oven.
• Faster Than Traditional Baking – Enjoy homemade baklava in less time with no compromise on taste or texture.
• Sweet and Satisfying – The combination of spiced nuts and honey syrup hits every sweet tooth craving.
• No Fuss, No Fail – Simple steps and easy assembly make this recipe approachable, even for beginners.
• Impressive and Elegant – Looks bakery-worthy, making it perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a treat-yourself moment.

Ingredients Needed

• Filo (phyllo) dough – Paper-thin pastry sheets for crisp, flaky layers.
• Unsalted butter, melted – Adds rich flavor and browns the phyllo perfectly.
• Finely chopped walnuts – Earthy, crunchy nuts for classic baklava texture.
• Finely chopped pistachios – Adds vibrant color and buttery nutty flavor.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens syrup and balances the nutty filling.
• Honey – Sticky, floral sweetness for the syrup drizzle.
• Ground cinnamon – Warm spice that enhances the nut filling.
• Lemon zest – Bright citrus note to cut the sweetness.
• Water – Base for the honey-sugar syrup mixture.

How To Make Air Fryer Baklava

Step One: Preheat the air fryer to 355 degrees F, air fryer setting. Grease a small baking dish that will fit inside your air fryer and set it aside.

Step Two: In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped nuts and cinnamon to evenly coat.

Step Three: Unroll your thawed filo dough. Trim the filo layers to fit your baking pan and set them aside covered by a damp cloth (this prevents the dough sheets from drying out). Place two trimmed filo sheets into the bottom of the pan and brush the top with the melted butter. Repeat until there are 6-8 sheets total to form the bottom layer of the baklava. 

Step Four: Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the nut mixture over the top of the filo layers and spread evenly. Follow by two more sheets of filo and brush the top with butter. Add another 2-3 tablespoons of the nut mixture and repeat the process until you have used up the nuts. For the final top layer, add two sheets of filo, brush with butter, and repeat until there are 6 sheets total. 

Step Five: Use a knife to slice the baklava into squares or diamond shapes (this is done prior to baking to achieve cleaner cuts).

Step Six: Set cook time for 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of your pan until the filo pastry becomes a crispy, light golden brown and is cooked through. While the baklava bakes, boil the sugar and water in a saucepan until the sugar has dissolved. Add the lemon zest and honey and simmer for 15- 20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.

Step Seven: Remove the baklava from the air fryer and spoon the honey sauce over the top. Allow the baklava to cool before serving, enjoy!

Air Fryer Baklava Recipe Tips

• Use thawed, fresh filo sheets: Handle filo dough carefully once thawed to prevent tearing and drying out. Keep covered with a damp towel while working.
• Brush each layer generously: Brushing melted butter on each filo sheet ensures crisp, golden layers. Don’t skimp on the butter!
• Cut before baking: Score the baklava into pieces before air frying to get clean, even slices and easier serving.
• Monitor cooking time closely: Air fryer models vary; check for golden brown edges and a crispy top to avoid burning.
• Let syrup cool before pouring: Pour cooled honey syrup over warm baklava to soak evenly without making the pastry soggy.
• Use a small, oven-safe dish: Choose a baking dish that fits snugly in your air fryer basket for even cooking.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Store baklava in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it crisp and fresh for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating, as it can make the pastry soggy.
• Freezing: Wrap baklava tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing to preserve freshness for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture.
• Reheating: Reheat baklava in the air fryer at 300°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness without drying it out. Alternatively, warm in a low oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Baklava Air Fryer Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen filo dough for this recipe? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and keep it covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying out.

How long does it take to cook baklava in the air fryer? Typically, it takes about 18–22 minutes at 355°F, but cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.

Can I substitute the nuts in this recipe? Absolutely! Walnuts and pistachios are traditional, but almonds, pecans, or a mix work well too.

Can I make the honey syrup ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the syrup in advance and store it in the fridge. Warm it slightly before pouring over the baklava.

Is it necessary to cut the baklava before cooking? Cutting before baking helps create clean pieces and makes serving easier. It also helps the syrup soak evenly.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER CINNAMON CHURRO BITES
• AIR FRYER S’MORES BANANA BOATS
• EASY AIR FRYER NUTELLA CROISSANTS
• AIR FRYER PANCAKE BATTER OREOS
• AIR FRYER CHERRY CHEESECAKE EGG ROLLS
• EASY AIR FRYER RASPBERRY WONTONS
• AIR FRYER PEANUT BUTTER BANANA EGG ROLLS

Don’t Forget To Pin!

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