Irresistible Kunafa Recipe: Master the Art of Middle Eastern Desserts

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Kunafa

Kunafa Introduction

Welcome to the enchanting world of Kunafa, where layers of delicate phyllo dough and gooey cheese meet in a symphony of flavors and textures. Originating from the Middle East, Kunafa has captured the hearts of dessert lovers worldwide with its irresistible sweetness and indulgent richness. In this blog post, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey as we uncover the secrets behind crafting the perfect Kunafa right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice baker, our step-by-step recipe will guide you through the process, ensuring that each bite of Kunafa transports you to dessert paradise. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this iconic dessert that is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Let’s dive in and discover the magic of Kunafa!

Irresistible Kunafa Recipe: Master the Art of Middle Eastern Desserts
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Irresistible Kunafa Recipe: Master the Art of Middle Eastern Desserts

Course: DessertCuisine: Middle EasternDifficulty: Medium
Servings

5

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Indulge in the irresistible sweetness of Kunafa, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert that captivates the senses with its layers of crispy phyllo dough, gooey cheese, and fragrant syrup. Our easy-to-follow Kunafa recipe brings the flavors of the Middle East to your kitchen, allowing you to recreate this decadent treat at home. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet ending to any meal, Kunafa is sure to delight both family and friends alike.

Ingredients

  • 1 package (500g) kunafa dough (shredded phyllo dough)

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese or Akkawi cheese, crumbled

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1/2 cup water

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped (optional)

  • 1/4 cup simple syrup (made with equal parts sugar and water, simmered until sugar dissolves)

Directions

  • Prepare the Kunafa Dough:
  • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Place the kunafa dough in a large bowl and separate the strands with your fingers to ensure they are loose and fluffy.
  • Assemble the Layers:
  • Brush the bottom of a baking dish with melted butter.
  • Place half of the kunafa dough in the bottom of the baking dish, pressing it down firmly to form an even layer.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the kunafa dough.
  • Crumble the ricotta or Akkawi cheese over the mozzarella layer.
  • Top with the remaining kunafa dough, pressing it down gently.
  • Bake the Kunafa:
  • Drizzle the melted butter over the top layer of kunafa.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the kunafa is golden brown and crispy.
  • Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
  • While the kunafa is baking, prepare the sugar syrup by combining the sugar, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
  • Finish and Serve:
  • Once the kunafa is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the sugar syrup evenly over the hot kunafa.
  • Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top, if desired, and drizzle with additional simple syrup.
  • Allow the kunafa to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Please note that the calorie counts are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.