Kunafa (or Knafeh) is a popular Middle Eastern dessert
made with shredded phyllo dough, filled with sweet cheese or
cream, and soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. It’s crispy, rich,
and absolutely delicious!
Ingredients (Serves 6-8):For the Kunafa Base:
● 250g kataifi (shredded phyllo dough)
● 100g unsalted butter, melted
● 200g sweet cheese (mozzarella, ricotta, or Akkawi),
shredded
● ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
For the Sugar Syrup:
● 1 cup sugar
● ½ cup water
● 1 tsp lemon juice
● 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water
For Garnish:
● 2 tbsp crushed pistachios
● Honey (optional)
Instructions :
Prepare the Sugar Syrup:- In a saucepan, mix sugar and water, then bring to a boil.
- Add lemon juice and simmer for 5 minutes, until slightly
thickened. - Remove from heat and stir in rose water or orange
blossom water. Let it cool. Prepare the Kunafa Base:- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the kataifi dough in a large bowl and gently
separate the strands. - Pour melted butter over the dough and mix well to coat
evenly. Assemble the Kunafa:- Grease a round baking pan (about 22cm).
- Spread half of the kataifi dough evenly in the pan and
press it down. - Layer with cheese (and cream if using).
- Cover with the remaining kataifi dough, pressing gently.
Bake the Kunafa:- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and immediately pour the cool
syrup over the hot kunafa. Garnish & Serve:
● Sprinkle with crushed pistachios.
● Serve warm, with extra syrup or honey if desired.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Kunafa! 😍
