Description
Kunafa is a classic Middle Eastern dessert made with shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), cheese or cream, and sweet syrup. It’s crispy, gooey, and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
- 250g kataifi (shredded phyllo) dough
- ½ cup unsalted melted butter
- 200g Nabulsi or Akkawi cheese (soaked and shredded)
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water
- Crushed pistachios (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Syrup – Simmer sugar, water, and lemon juice for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, add rose water, and let cool.
2️⃣ Assemble the Kunafa – Coat the shredded phyllo dough with melted butter. Layer half in a greased pan, spread the cheese filling evenly, and top with the remaining dough.
3️⃣ Bake and Serve – Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes until golden brown. Pour the cooled syrup over the hot kunafa, garnish with pistachios, and enjoy!
Notes
✔️ For extra crunch, press the kunafa dough firmly into the pan before baking.
✔️ Cheese too salty? Soak it in water for 1–2 hours before using.
✔️ Want a creamier texture? Swap cheese for ashta (clotted cream) for a smooth, rich filling.
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 35min
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: MENA Kitchen
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 Servings
- Calories: 400 Kcal
- Sugar: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 8g