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Kunafa

Kunafa is a delectable Middle Eastern dessert, featuring crispy pastry layered with creamy cheese, perfect for special occasions or sweet cravings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet Treat
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the kunafa
  • 500 g kunafa dough Be sure to crumble finely for even baking.
  • 200 g unsalted butter, melted Used for mixing with dough and greasing the dish.
For the cheese filling
  • 300 g ricotta cheese Can substitute with cream cheese for extra creaminess.
  • 300 g mozzarella cheese, shredded Use a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
For the syrup
  • 200 g sugar Provides sweetness to the dish.
  • 1 cup water Needed to prepare the syrup.
  • 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water Can substitute with vanilla extract.
For garnish
  • Chopped pistachios Adds crunch and flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with some melted butter.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Set aside.
  3. Take half of the kunafa dough and crumble it into small pieces. Mix it with half of the melted butter until well combined.
  4. Spread the buttered dough evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
  5. Layer the cheese mixture over the dough, then crumble the remaining kunafa dough on top. Drizzle the remaining melted butter evenly on top.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Syrup Preparation
  1. While the kunafa is baking, prepare the syrup by combining sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add rose or orange blossom water.
Finishing Touches
  1. Once the kunafa is done baking, pour the syrup evenly over it while it’s still hot.
  2. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then garnish with chopped pistachios before serving.

Notes

Kunafa is best enjoyed warm, right after it has been drizzled with syrup. Can be served with ice cream for an irresistible dessert. If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain flavor.