Step 1:Prepare the Nut Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, pistachios, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves (if using).
• Mix well and set aside.

Step 2:Prepare the Syrup

• In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and citrus peels.
• Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until slightly thickened.
• Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely. Remove the cinnamon stick and peels before using.

Step 3:Assemble the Baklava

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
• Unroll the filo dough and cut the stack to fit the size of your baking dish. Cover the filo with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.
• Place one sheet of filo in the baking dish and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet, until you have about 8-10 layers.
• Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture evenly over the filo.
• Continue layering the filo sheets and butter, adding another layer of nuts after every 5-6 sheets, until all the nuts are used.
• Finish with about 8-10 more layers of filo on top, brushing each sheet with butter.

Step 4:Cut and Bake

• Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, cutting all the way through to the bottom of the dish.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.

Step 5:Serve

• As soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot pastry, making sure to cover all pieces.
• Let the baklava cool completely, allowing the syrup to soak in and the layers to set.
• Once cooled and set, re-cut the baklava along the lines to separate the pieces. Serve at room temperature.