Gluten Free Baklava (Viral Recipe)

Short Description

This inventive, gluten‑free take on baklava uses rice paper instead of filo dough, wrapped around a spiced nut filling to create a crispy, coil‑shaped pastry that bakes up crunchy and sweet—perfect for a light, gluten‑free treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Grain‑free and gluten‑free alternative to traditional baklava
• Light yet crispy rice paper shell with spiced nut filling
• No filo dough required—easy pantry ingredients
• Air fryer method yields golden crunch without heavy frying
• Sweetened with coconut sugar and honey for subtle, natural sweetness

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 sheets rice paper
• 1/8 cup pistachios
• 1/4 cup walnuts
• 1½ tablespoons coconut sugar (reserve ½ tablespoon for topping)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, melted

Directions

1. In a food processor, pulse the pistachios, walnuts, cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon coconut sugar until the mixture is finely ground. Set aside.
2. Dip each sheet of rice paper in room‑temperature water until pliable, then lay all three overlapping on your work surface.
3. Spread the nut mixture evenly over the overlapping rice paper layers.
4. Starting from the edge closest to you, roll the rice paper tightly over the nut filling, folding in the sides as you go until you have a log or rope shape.
5. Starting from one end, coil the rice paper rope into a circular spiral.
6. Brush the top lightly with melted butter and sprinkle the reserved ½ tablespoon of coconut sugar over it.
7. Air fry at 400 °F (200 °C) for about 6 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it—it can brown quickly.
8. Remove and, if desired, drizzle with honey just before serving.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: Makes about 4–6 small rolls (acts like mini‑tarts or individual portions)
• Prep Time: ~10 minutes
• Cook Time: ~6 minutes
• Total Time: ~16 minutes

Variations

• Nut swaps: Use almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts instead of pistachios and walnuts.
• Sweetener options: Substitute coconut sugar with maple sugar, brown sugar, or a sugar-free alternative.
• Spice boost: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg for extra warmth.
• Oil option: Use ghee or coconut oil in place of butter for richer flavor or dairy‑free version.
• Honey drizzle alternatives: Try maple syrup, date syrup, or a sugar‑free syrup drizzle.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days—best enjoyed crispy and fresh.
• Reheating: Warm briefly in the air fryer or toaster oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for 1–2 minutes to refresh the crispness; drizzle honey after reheating.

FAQs

1. Is rice paper gluten‑free?

Yes—most rice paper wrappers are made from rice flour and water and are gluten‑free. Always verify the label to ensure no additives with gluten.

2. Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes—bake in a preheated oven at 375 °F (190 °C) for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy, turning halfway for even browning.

3. Can I double the recipe?

Certainly—prepare multiple rolls and air fry or bake in batches, ensuring enough space for proper crisping.

4. How sweet will the rolls be?

They have mild sweetness from coconut sugar and honey; adjust by adding more sugar or drizzle, depending on preference.

5. Can I make the nut filling ahead?

Yes—the spiced nut mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

6. Are these suitable for vegan diets?

If you replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine and use a vegan honey alternative or omit the drizzle, they can be vegan‑friendly.

7. How do I prevent the rice paper from tearing?

Dip it just until pliable—not soaking—and handle gently to avoid ripping while wrapping.

8. Can I use fresh honey instead of drizzle?

Yes—serve with fresh, high‑quality honey or date syrup for a richer flavor. Drizzle lightly after air frying.

9. Are these nut‑free adaptable?

Replace nuts with sunflower seed mix or pumpkin seeds for nut‑free alternative, adjusting sweetness if needed.

10. How do I tell when they’re done crisping?

They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. If they’re still soft, add 1–2 more minutes in the air fryer and check again.

Conclusion

This Gluten Free Baklava reinvents a classic dessert into a light, grain‑free snack with crisp rice paper spirals and spiced nut filling. Quick to prepare and elegant in presentation, it’s a perfect handheld treat if you’re craving the flavor of baklava without gluten or filo.

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