Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom (if using).
In another large bowl, beat together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the milk or buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
Gently fold in the chopped mixed nuts, making sure they are evenly distributed.
2. Prepare the Streusel Topping (Optional):
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, chopped nuts, and flour. Stir until well mixed and crumbly.
Sprinkle this mixture on top of the muffin batter in each muffin cup for an extra crunchy, nutty topping.
3. Bake the Muffins:
Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
If using the streusel topping, sprinkle it on top of each muffin before baking.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
4. Prepare the Honey Syrup:
While the muffins are baking, prepare the honey syrup by combining the honey, water, and lemon juice (if using) in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until the honey has fully dissolved and the syrup is warm. Set aside.
5. Drizzle the Syrup:
Once the muffins are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the warm honey syrup over the top of each muffin to mimic the traditional sweetness of baklava.
6. Serve:
Let the muffins cool slightly, and then enjoy! The muffins will have a sweet, nutty, and slightly crunchy texture from the streusel, combined with the warm, honeyed finish that resembles baklava.
