Akşehir Cheese Baklava

Akşehir Cheese Baklava is a traditional dessert unique to the Akşehir district of Konya province, distinguished from other baklava varieties by the use of fresh, unsalted cheese in its filling. The essential ingredients that give this baklava its distinctive flavor—cheese and butter—are produced in Akşehir. Akşehir Cheese Baklava is typically served warm, reflecting the cultural and gastronomic traditions of the region.

Production Method

The production of Akşehir Cheese Baklava is a traditional process requiring skilled craftsmanship, and all stages must take place within the geographical boundaries of Akşehir district. The phyllo dough is rolled out extremely thin, filled with fresh unsalted cheese and butter, then baked. Immediately after removal from the oven, hot syrup is poured over the top, and after a short resting period, the baklava is served warm. It can also be reheated and consumed after cooling.

Geographical Indication Registration and Oversight

Akşehir Cheese Baklava was registered as a "Geographical Indication" by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office on 20 December 2021. A "Geographical Indication" certifies that the product’s reputation, characteristics, and other qualities originate from a specific geographical area, and that at least one stage of production occurs within this defined boundary.

To ensure compliance with the geographical indication, a monitoring authority has been established under the coordination of the Akşehir Municipality. This authority conducts annual inspections to verify the suitability of ingredients and their quantities, adherence to the production method, and the correct use of the registered emblem.