Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Knafeh Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 48 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Knafeh is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert featuring layers of crispy shredded phyllo dough, rich gooey cheese, and a sweet fragrant sugar syrup infused with rose or orange blossom water. This warm, fragrant treat combines delightful textures and flavors, making it a perfect indulgence for any occasion.

Ingredients

Pastry and Cheese

  • 400 g kataifi (shredded phyllo dough)
  • 200 g mozzarella or akkawi cheese
  • 150 g butter, melted

Syrup

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water

Garnish

  • Crushed pistachios, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to warm up while you prepare the knafeh ingredients, ensuring even baking.
  2. Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar and water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the rose water or orange blossom water. Set aside to cool.
  3. Prepare the Kataifi: Gently separate the kataifi strands using your fingers to loosen them. Mix thoroughly with the melted butter until the strands are well-coated, which helps achieve a golden, crispy texture.
  4. Assemble the Knafeh: Grease a baking dish, then evenly press half of the buttered kataifi into the dish to form the base layer. Spread the shredded mozzarella or akkawi cheese evenly over this base. Top the cheese with the remaining kataifi, pressing lightly to compact the layers.
  5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy, signaling the pastry is perfectly cooked.
  6. Add Syrup and Garnish: Once baked, remove the knafeh from the oven and immediately pour the cooled fragrant syrup evenly over the hot pastry, allowing it to absorb the sweetness. Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for a beautiful finish and added texture.
  7. Serve Warm: For the best taste and texture, serve the knafeh while it is still warm and the cheese is delightfully gooey.

Notes

  • Use low-moisture cheese such as low-moisture mozzarella or akkawi to prevent excess water content, which can make the dessert soggy.
  • Serve immediately after adding syrup for optimal crispiness and texture.
  • Adjust syrup sweetness and rose/orange blossom water to taste.
  • Kataifi can be refrigerated but soften before using for easier handling.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Find it online: https://justsosweet.com/knafeh-recipe/