Ingredients
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For the Kunafa
- 250g Kunafa (kataifi) dough (shredded phyllo dough)
- 100g unsalted butter, melted
- 200g ricotta cheese or unsweetened cream cheese (or a mix of both)
- 100g sugar (optional for a sweetened cheese filling)
- 1 tablespoon rose water or orange blossom water (optional)
- Chopped pistachios (optional for garnish)
For the Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water
Directions
Kunafa is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert that’s rich in flavor and tradition. This indulgent treat is made from shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), which is layered with a luscious, creamy filling of ricotta or cream cheese. The dough is generously coated in melted butter, giving it a crispy, golden texture when baked. Once out of the oven, the kunafa is drenched in a fragrant, sweet syrup made from sugar, water, lemon juice, and a touch of rose or orange blossom water, which gives it a distinct, aromatic flavor.
The beauty of kunafa lies in its balance of textures and flavors—the crunchy outer layers contrast beautifully with the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth filling. Garnished with crushed pistachios for a hint of crunch and nuttiness, kunafa is a dessert that captivates both the eyes and the taste buds. Traditionally served warm, it’s a popular choice for special occasions, gatherings, or simply as a treat to enjoy with a cup of Arabic coffee or tea. The combination of sweet, creamy, and nutty flavors makes kunafa an unforgettable dessert that’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Steps
1 Done | Prepare the Syrup1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. 2. Bring to a boil and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for 10 minutes. 3. Remove from heat and stir in the rose water or orange blossom water. Let the syrup cool. |
2 Done | Prepare the Kunafa1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). 2. Gently separate the Kunafa dough (kataifi) into small strands and place it in a large bowl. 3. Pour the melted butter over the dough and toss it well, ensuring all the strands are coated with butter. 4. Grease a round baking dish (or any oven-safe dish) with butter or ghee. 5. Take half of the prepared dough and press it into the bottom of the dish, creating a firm base. 6. For the filling, mix the ricotta cheese or cream cheese with sugar and rose water (optional) in a separate bowl. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough base. 7. Cover the cheese layer with the remaining dough, pressing it down gently. |
3 Done | Bake1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. 2. Remove from the oven and pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot kunafa. 3. Let the kunafa absorb the syrup and cool for 10 minutes. |
4 Done | Garnish and Serve1. Garnish the kunafa with chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor. 2. Slice and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Kunafa! It's best served with a cup of Arabic coffee or tea for a truly authentic experience. |
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