Maple Pecan Baklava Rolls – Buttery, Crispy, and Sweet with a Maple Twist

These Maple Pecan Baklava Rolls take everything you love about traditional baklava and add a cozy maple twist that feels right at home during the holidays. Crispy, golden layers of phyllo pastry are filled with toasted pecans, brown sugar, and warm spices, then drizzled with a rich maple syrup glaze. Each bite is buttery, nutty, and sweet with just the right amount of crunch.

This recipe delivers all the satisfaction of classic baklava but in a simpler, rolled form that’s easier to assemble and serve. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you want a show-stopping dessert that looks elegant but comes together easily.

What Are Maple Pecan Baklava Rolls

These rolls are a fun, modern twist on traditional Greek or Middle Eastern baklava. Instead of layering sheets of phyllo pastry in a pan, the sheets are brushed with butter, filled with a spiced pecan mixture, then rolled up and sliced into spirals before baking. Once they’re golden and crisp, a warm maple syrup glaze is poured over the top to soak into the flaky layers.

The result is a bite-sized dessert that’s as pretty as it is delicious buttery, sticky, nutty, and sweet with that irresistible caramelized maple flavor.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these Maple Pecan Baklava Rolls because they’re:

• Easier to assemble than traditional layered baklava
• Perfectly portioned for serving or gifting
• Infused with real maple syrup for a cozy winter flavor
• Crisp, nutty, and irresistibly sweet
• A stunning addition to your holiday dessert table

They combine the classic appeal of baklava with the warmth of maple and pecans, creating a dessert that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

How Do They Taste

Each roll is crisp and buttery on the outside, with a gooey, nutty center that’s lightly spiced and perfectly balanced. The maple syrup glaze adds depth and a soft sweetness that seeps into every flaky layer. The pecans bring a toasty crunch that pairs beautifully with the smooth caramel notes of the maple.

They’re rich, flavorful, and satisfying without being too heavy — the kind of treat that has everyone reaching for seconds.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

Pecans are naturally rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, while maple syrup is a less refined sweetener that brings minerals and complex flavor. Phyllo pastry keeps things light and crisp without the need for heavy doughs.

While this dessert is certainly indulgent, it’s made with simple, whole ingredients and can be enjoyed in small, satisfying portions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:

• 2 cups finely chopped pecans
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

For the Pastry:

• 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Maple Syrup Glaze:

• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet or 9×13-inch pan
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowl

Optional Substitutions & Additions

• Nuts: Substitute walnuts, pistachios, or a mix of nuts.
• Flavor: Add orange zest or a splash of bourbon for depth.
• Sweetener: Replace honey with agave or extra maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Spices: Add cardamom or allspice for a warm holiday touch.
• Topping: Finish with a drizzle of caramel or sprinkle of flaky salt for contrast.

How to Make

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare filling: In a bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Assemble rolls: Lay one sheet of phyllo on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter. Stack another sheet on top and brush again. Sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons of pecan mixture evenly over the surface.
4. Roll and slice: Starting from one long edge, gently roll the phyllo into a tight log. Slice into 1½-inch rolls and place cut side up on the prepared pan. Repeat with remaining sheets and filling.
5. Bake: Brush tops of rolls with remaining butter and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
6. Make syrup: While rolls bake, combine maple syrup, honey, water, and vanilla in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
7. Glaze rolls: When baklava rolls come out of the oven, immediately pour warm syrup evenly over them. Let them sit for at least 1 hour to soak up the glaze before serving.

What to Serve With

These baklava rolls pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a lovely addition to dessert platters alongside cookies, truffles, or spiced cakes. For brunch, serve them with fruit and yogurt for a sweet complement.

Why They’re Perfect for Holidays

Maple Pecan Baklava Rolls are festive, elegant, and full of warm, cozy flavor. The maple syrup and pecans make them ideal for fall and winter gatherings, while their beautiful spiral shape adds a touch of charm to any dessert table.

They also store well, making them a great option for gifting or preparing ahead of time.

Tips for Success

• Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying.
• Don’t skip brushing each layer with butter for that signature flaky texture.
• Slice rolls before baking to make syrup absorption easier.
• Pour syrup over warm rolls for the best soak.
• Allow time for the syrup to fully absorb before serving for ideal flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using dry phyllo sheets: Always keep unused sheets covered.
• Skipping the resting time: The rolls need time to soak up the syrup.
• Overbaking: They can quickly go from golden to burned. Watch carefully near the end.
• Pouring cold syrup: The syrup should be warm when added to freshly baked rolls.

How to Store & Make Ahead

Store baklava rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Do not refrigerate, as it can make the phyllo soggy.

For longer storage, freeze baked rolls (without syrup) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat at 300°F for 10 minutes, then drizzle with fresh syrup before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought syrup instead of making my own?
Yes, but homemade syrup gives a richer flavor and perfect texture.

Can I make these with puff pastry?
Phyllo is essential for traditional baklava texture, but puff pastry can be used for a softer, flakier variation.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely. Walnuts are classic in baklava and taste amazing with maple syrup.

Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes. They actually taste better the next day once the syrup has fully absorbed.

Nutritional Info (approximate per roll)

Calories: 210 | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 22g | Protein: 3g | Sugar: 14g | Sodium: 60mg

Conclusion

These Maple Pecan Baklava Rolls are a delightful twist on a timeless favorite. With flaky layers, toasted pecans, and sweet maple syrup glaze, they’re buttery, nutty, and bursting with warm flavor.

Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply treating yourself, these rolls are as beautiful as they are delicious. Every bite delivers the perfect mix of crisp pastry and sticky-sweet filling, making them a dessert you’ll want to bake again and again.

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November 5, 2025 by Melissa