GREEK-STYLE HONEY-NUT PASTRIES

Makes 24.

Note: Phyllo (or filo) is available frozen in supermarkets.

• 1 pkg. (1 lb.) frozen phyllo dough, thawed

• 2/3 c. melted butter

• 1 c. coarsely chopped walnuts

• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

• 1/8 tsp. ground cloves

• 1 tbsp. dry bread crumbs

• Honey Syrup (recipe follows)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

On a working surface, make a stack of five phyllo sheets, brushing each with melted butter (use about half the butter). Cut the stack into 24 squares. Line the cavities of a 24-cup miniature muffin pan with the phyllo squares. Trim ends to form round cups. Cover with damp cloth to keep the pastry moist.

Roll up the remaining pastry and, with a sharp knife, cut into very thin shreds (about 1/16- inch thick). Divide into 24 equal portions. Cover with a damp cloth and set aside.

Mix the walnuts, cinnamon, cloves and bread crumbs in a bowl.

Take one portion of the shredded phyllo and shape it into a small bird's nest. Put 1/2 tablespoon of the nut mixture into the center of the "nest" and roll it up into a ball. Place into the center of a pastry-lined muffin cup. Repeat to fill the remaining cups.

Brush pastry tops with the remaining butter. Bake pastries for 25 to 35 minutes until golden brown.

HONEY SYRUP

Makes about 2 cups.

• 1 c. sugar

• 1 c. water

• 1 c. honey

• Peel from 1 lemon

• 1 tbsp. lemon juice

Directions

While pastries are baking, bring all the ingredients to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and cool slightly.

Drizzle baked pastries with the syrup. Serve warm or chilled, or freeze pastries until ready to serve.