Kunafah Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Preheat the oven to 350掳F (175掳C) and grease a baking dish.
• STEP 2.In a bowl, mix the shredded phyllo dough with melted butter until well coated.
• STEP 3.Press half of the dough mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to form a crust.
• STEP 4.In another bowl, combine the cheese filling ingredients and mix well.
• STEP 5.Spread the cheese filling evenly over the dough crust.
• STEP 6.Cover the cheese filling with the remaining shredded phyllo dough mixture.
• STEP 7.Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
• STEP 8.While the kunafah is baking, prepare the syrup by combining the syrup ingredients in a saucepan and bringing it to a boil.
• STEP 9.Reduce the heat and let the syrup simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let it cool.
• STEP 10.Once the kunafah is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the cooled syrup over it.
• STEP 11.Allow the kunafah to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
• STEP 12.Serve the kunafah as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Cooking Tips

• Make sure to thaw the shredded phyllo dough according to package instructions before using.
• For the cheese filling, you can use a combination of mozzarella and ricotta cheese for a creamy and slightly salty flavor.
• To achieve a crispy top, you can brush the top layer of shredded phyllo dough with melted butter before baking.
• If you don't have rosewater or orange blossom water for the syrup, you can substitute with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Serving

• Kunafah is best served fresh and warm, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350掳F (175掳C) for about 5 minutes.
• Serve the kunafah as is or with a drizzle of additional syrup and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added texture and flavor.