Healthier Vegan Baklava Cups

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 130g oat flour (or blend oats into a fine flour)
• Pinch of salt
• 50g coconut oil, melted
• 1½ tbsp maple syrup

For the Frangipane Layer:

• 25g ground almonds
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp ground flaxseed
• 1 tbsp warm water
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tbsp coconut oil
• ½ tbsp milk of choice

For the Pistachio Layer:

• 50g pistachios, finely chopped
• 1½ tbsp maple syrup
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp cardamom
• ¼ tsp orange blossom water (optional)
• ¼ tsp rose water (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F.

2. Prepare the Base:

   • In a bowl, mix the oat flour, salt, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup until well combined.
   • Press the mixture into mini cupcake molds lightly brushed with oil to prevent sticking. (A 10x8 inch, 12-cup mini muffin tray works well.)

3. Prepare the Flaxseed Mixture:

   • In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseed with 1 tbsp warm water. Let it set for 10 minutes to thicken.

4. Prepare the Frangipane Layer:

   • In a bowl, combine the ground almonds, baking powder, salt, the set flaxseed mixture, maple syrup, coconut oil, and milk. Mix until smooth.
   • Divide this mixture between the cups, leaving room for the pistachio topping.

5. Prepare the Pistachio Layer:

   • In another bowl, mix the finely chopped pistachios, maple syrup, cinnamon, cardamom, and optional orange blossom or rose water.
   • Spoon the pistachio mixture on top of the frangipane layer and press down lightly to compact.

6. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the tops are set.
   • Allow to cool completely before removing from the molds.

Notes:

• Oat Flour: If you don't have oat flour, you can blend rolled oats in a high-speed blender until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency. Use gluten-free oats if needed.
• Orange Blossom/Rose Water: These are optional but add a lovely floral note. They are available in some supermarkets, Asian/Middle Eastern shops, or online.

Enjoy these Pistachio Frangipane Mini Cups as a delightful treat or a sophisticated addition to any gathering!