Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Kinda Baklava

If you’ve ever wanted to make baklava but felt intimidated by all the layers and syrup, this Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Kinda Baklava is your shortcut to sweet success. It’s crunchy, nutty, citrusy, and totally addictive—with none of the usual faff. I made it on a Sunday afternoon with coffee and friends, and let’s just say… there weren’t many leftovers. (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

• 3 large juicy oranges
• 1 × 340g jar of runny honey
• 2 nests of vermicelli (100g)
• 300g luxury fruit and nut mix
• 1 × 270g pack of filo pastry

How To Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Kinda Baklava

1. Step 1: Start the Syrup
   Grate half the zest of the oranges into a pan, then squeeze in all the juice. Add the honey and let it simmer gently over medium heat. Swirl the pan now and then—don’t stir—until the syrup thickens slightly. Then set it aside to cool.
2. Step 2: Prep the Vermicelli
   Place the vermicelli in a bowl and pour over boiling water to soften. After a few minutes, drain and squeeze out any excess liquid.
3. Step 3: Blend the Filling
   Blitz half the fruit and nut mix in a food processor until fine, then pulse the remaining half for texture. Reserve a small handful for topping. Add the softened vermicelli to the food processor and pulse a few times to bring everything together.
4. Step 4: Layer the Pastry
   Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Oil a 30cm non-stick frying pan. Lightly oil half the filo sheets and layer them into the pan, letting the edges hang over. Spoon in the filling and spread it evenly. Oil and layer the rest of the filo on top, then tuck in the edges and press gently to compact.
5. Step 5: Slice and Bake
   Pre-slice the baklava into diamonds or squares before baking. Bake for 30 minutes, then scatter the reserved fruit and nuts over the top and bake for another 5 minutes until golden and crisp.
6. Step 6: Soak and Cool
   Once out of the oven, gently press the baklava down with a spatula, then pour over your cooled syrup. Let it sit for at least 2 hours to absorb all that sticky, citrusy goodness.
7. Step 7: Serve It Up
   To loosen the baklava before serving, warm the pan gently on the stove. Serve straight from the pan or turn it out onto a board—it looks stunning either way

Why I Love This Recipe

This baklava is an absolute crowd-pleaser. It’s rich without being too heavy, and the honey-orange syrup makes it feel fresh. The use of vermicelli is genius—it adds body to the filling without needing extra ingredients. I’ve even packed leftovers for lunchbox treats (no judgment here).

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh filo pastry: It’s easier to handle and bakes up beautifully crisp.
• Go slow with the syrup: Stop as soon as it thickens—overcooked syrup won’t soak properly.
• Pre-slice before baking: It makes serving neater and helps syrup soak evenly.
• Press gently post-bake: It helps compress the layers and absorb the syrup.
• Let it fully cool: Don’t rush—cooling for a couple of hours makes a big difference in texture and flavor.

How To Store Leftovers

• In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
• In the Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Can I use a different syrup instead of honey?
  Honey really brings out the Mediterranean feel, but maple syrup could work as a substitute in a pinch.
• Is vermicelli traditional in baklava?
  Nope! That’s Jamie’s clever twist. It helps bulk out the filling and adds great texture.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day once the syrup has soaked in.
• How do I keep filo from drying out?
  Keep a damp towel over your filo while you work to stop it from cracking.
• What kind of fruit and nut mix works best?
  A mix with pistachios, almonds, raisins, and cranberries works beautifully—but feel free to get creative!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 332 kcal
• Fat: 9.2g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Protein: 6.7g
• Carbohydrates: 58.5g
• Sugars: 30.8g
• Salt: 0.2g
• Fibre: 1.9g

Try More Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Recipes:

• 5 Ingredients Pistachio Panna Cotta
• 5 Ingredients Tahini Rocky Road
• 5 Ingredients Crème Caramel
• 5 Ingredients Jools’ Chocolate Dreams