Name: Easy Baklava Bundt Cake Recipe with a Cake Mix
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490143H59M37S
Total time: PT-490143H59M37S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Baklava Topping:; ¼ cup melted butter; 1 cup chopped nuts (pistachios, almonds, walnuts mix); ⅓ cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon corn syrup; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; For the Cake Batter:; 1 box vanilla cake mix (13.25 ounces); 3 large eggs; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup water; 3 tablespoons sour cream; For the Honey Glaze:; ¼ cup honey; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 to 1½ tablespoons warm water

This Easy Baklava Bundt Cake brings together the rich, nutty flavors of traditional baklava in a moist, tender cake. By using a vanilla cake mix and a luscious nut topping, I can enjoy all the indulgence of baklava without the intricate layering of phyllo dough.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe simplifies the complex process of making baklava. The combination of crunchy nuts, sweet honey glaze, and soft cake creates a delightful dessert that's both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. It's perfect for special occasions or whenever I crave something sweet and nutty.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Baklava Topping:

¼ cup melted butter
1 cup chopped nuts (I use a mix of pistachios, almonds, and walnuts)
⅓ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon corn syrup
½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cake Batter:

1 box vanilla cake mix (13.25 ounces)
3 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
3 tablespoons sour cream

For the Honey Glaze:

¼ cup honey
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 to 1½ tablespoons warm water

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Liberally spray a Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
Prepare the Baklava Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, chopped nuts, brown sugar, corn syrup, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed. Pour this mixture into the bottom of the prepared Bundt pan.
Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and sour cream. Mix according to the package directions until the batter is smooth. Carefully pour the batter over the nut mixture in the Bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it, then invert it onto a cake plate. If any of the nut topping sticks to the pan, simply remove it and place it back on top of the cake.
Prepare the Honey Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and warm water until the glaze reaches a pourable consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the warm cake.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 10 servings. The total time to prepare and bake the cake is about 55-60 minutes: 15 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes for baking.

Variations

Nut Variations: I sometimes use only one type of nut, such as walnuts or pistachios, depending on what I have on hand.
Spice It Up: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the nut mixture gives the cake a different flavor profile.
Citrus Twist: Incorporating orange zest into the glaze adds a refreshing citrus note.

Storage and Reheating

I store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I need to keep it longer, I refrigerate it for up to 5 days. To reheat, I warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

What type of nuts work best for this recipe?

I prefer using a combination of pistachios, almonds, and walnuts for a rich flavor and texture. However, using just one type of nut also works well.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, I can substitute the vanilla cake mix with a yellow or butter-flavored cake mix for a slightly different taste.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the Bundt pan?

I make sure to liberally spray the Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray, ensuring all the crevices are well-coated.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature. I add the glaze just before serving for the best presentation.

Is there a substitute for corn syrup in the topping?

If I don't have corn syrup, I use honey as a substitute in the nut topping, which complements the honey glaze nicely.

Conclusion

This Easy Baklava Bundt Cake is a delightful fusion of traditional baklava flavors and the simplicity of a cake mix. It's a go-to recipe when I want to impress guests or treat myself to a sweet, nutty dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.