Baklavas (Baklava)(Makes 40 Servings) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 1/4 c. sugar
2 c. water
2 or 3 (2-inch) strips lemon peel
6 whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1/4 to 1/2 c. honey (optional)

Preparation

In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients, except lemon juice and honey.
Bring to a boil.
Simmer 20 minutes or until candy thermometer registers 224\u00b0.
Add lemon juice and honey; simmer 5 minutes.
Remove from heat; cool.