Choclava
Choclava is a decadent layered pastry featuring flaky phyllo, crunchy walnuts, and rich chocolate, baked to perfection—ideal for dessert lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the phyllo dough according to the package directions.
- Combine the chopped walnuts, semi-sweet chocolate chips, 3/4 cup sugar, and cinnamon; set aside.
- Brush the bottom of a 15 x 11 x 2-inch pan with melted butter.
- Layer 8 sheets of phyllo dough in the pan, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of the nut and chocolate mixture evenly over the layered dough.
- Top with 4 more sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with butter.
- Sprinkle an additional 2 cups of the nut mixture over the layers.
- Add another 4 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with butter.
- Spread the remaining nut mixture over the layers.
- Place the remaining phyllo sheets on top, brushing each with butter.
- Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top.
- Score the pastry into diamond shapes without cutting through the dough.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour.
- Once baked, cut through all layers along the scored lines and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, handle phyllo dough gently to avoid tearing; cover unused sheets with a damp cloth to keep them moist. If you don’t have walnuts, pecans or almonds can be good substitutes. Consider adding a touch of orange zest to the nut mixture for added flavor. Using a high-quality semi-sweet chocolate will enhance the overall taste of your Choclava.
Serving Suggestions
Choclava is delightful on its own, but you can enhance it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Easter Cheese (Hruda Or Sirets) or Mediterranean recipes for a diversified dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for a longer shelf life, up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual pieces in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to regain some of the crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Choclava contains roughly 336 calories, with 7g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Choclava ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Choclava a day in advance. Assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking. This allows the flavors to meld. Bake just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor may differ slightly, but it will still yield a delicious result.
How can I tell when Choclava is done baking?
Choclava is ready when it is golden brown on top and the edges are crisp. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Ensure you cool it slightly before cutting to maintain the layers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).