Delicious gooey kunafa dessert topped with syrup and nuts

Gooey Kunafa

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Why Make This Recipe

Gooey Kunafa is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. Its sweet, cheesy filling and crispy texture make it a favorite for many. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just want a delicious treat, Gooey Kunafa is sure to impress your family and friends.

How to Make Gooey Kunafa

Ingredients:

  • 1 package kunafa dough
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup sugar syrup

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the kunafa dough with the melted butter until it’s well combined.
  3. Layer half of the dough in a baking dish evenly.
  4. Spread the ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese on top of the first layer.
  5. Add the remaining kunafa dough on top of the cheese mixture.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  7. Once done, drizzle with sugar syrup before serving.

How to Serve Gooey Kunafa

Gooey Kunafa is best served warm. You can enjoy it plain, or you can add some crushed nuts on top for an extra crunch. It pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee.

How to Store Gooey Kunafa

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving again.

Tips to Make Gooey Kunafa

  • Make sure to fully melt the butter before mixing it with the kunafa dough.
  • For a richer flavor, you can add some cardamom or vanilla to the cheese mixture.
  • Keep an eye on the kunafa while baking to avoid over-browning.

Variation

You can experiment with different types of cheese for the filling. Some people like to add a bit of cream cheese for an even richer taste. You can also flavor the syrup with rose water or orange blossom for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I make Gooey Kunafa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cream cheese or a blend of cottage cheese for a different texture.

Is Gooey Kunafa suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking it as directed.

Gooey Kunafa

Gooey Kunafa is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert featuring a sweet, cheesy filling and crispy texture, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Kunafa Components
  • 1 package kunafa dough
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted) Make sure to fully melt before mixing.
Cheese Filling
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Can be substituted with cream cheese.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
Syrup
  • 1/2 cup sugar syrup Can be flavored with rose water or orange blossom.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the kunafa dough with the melted butter until it’s well combined.
  3. Layer half of the dough in a baking dish evenly.
  4. Spread the ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese on top of the first layer.
  5. Add the remaining kunafa dough on top of the cheese mixture.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  2. Once done, drizzle with sugar syrup before serving.

Notes

Gooey Kunafa is best served warm. Pairs well with tea or coffee. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.