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Knafeh

Sweet Knafeh Delight: A Taste of Middle Eastern Tradition

Knafeh is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert consisting of crispy kataifi dough and a creamy cheese filling, creating a sweet and delightful experience.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Syrup
  • 1 cup Water Base for syrup; no substitutions needed.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetness for syrup; essential and cannot be substituted.
  • 2 tablespoons Rose Water Adds aromatic flavor; can substitute with orange blossom water for a different twist.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Balances the sweetness; optional but recommended for depth.
For the Knafeh
  • 1 pound Kataifi Dough Main structure for the dessert; ensure it’s thawed and moist—can substitute with filo but expect a change in texture.
  • 1/2 cup Melted Butter Adds richness and binds dough; salted gives more flavor, ghee is a suitable alternative.
  • 1 pound Sweet Cheese Creamy filling; fresh mozzarella or a ricotta-mozzarella blend works well—ensure moisture is removed for best results.
For Toppings
  • 1/4 cup Crushed Pistachios Adds texture and flavor; optional, can substitute with any preferred nuts.
  • Kunafa Powdered Coloring Optional for enhancing the color of your dough.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • large mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • Serving plate

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Knafeh
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Once dissolved, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before mixing in rose water and lemon juice.
  3. Set aside to allow the syrup to thicken.
  4. While the syrup cools, take the thawed kataifi dough and cut it into small pieces.
  5. Drizzle melted butter over the dough in a large mixing bowl and mix thoroughly.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with a little melted butter.
  7. Firmly press half of the kataifi mixture into the bottom of the dish, creating an even layer.
  8. Layer the sweet cheese evenly on top of the pressed kataifi base.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining kataifi mixture over the cheese layer and gently press down.
  10. Place your assembled Knafeh in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until golden-brown.
  11. Once baked, let it cool for 10 minutes and carefully invert the Knafeh onto a serving plate.
  12. Pour the cooled syrup generously over the warm Knafeh.
  13. Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top, slice, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For a delightful flavor boost, consider using variations like orange blossom water for a unique twist!

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