Description
Homemade Lebanese Knafeh is a classic Middle Eastern dessert made with buttery shredded phyllo dough (kataifi) layered with a creamy cheese or Ashta filling, baked until golden and crispy, then soaked in aromatic sugar syrup. It’s a rich, indulgent treat perfect for celebrations and special occasions.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 lb kataifi dough (shredded phyllo pastry), thawed
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: 1/4 tsp orange food coloring or a pinch of turmeric
- For the filling (choose one):
- 1 1/2 cups sweet cheese (akkawi, mozzarella, or ricotta – well-drained)
- or
- 1 1/2 cups Ashta (Middle Eastern clotted cream)
- For the syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional)
- For garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Prepare the sugar syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes. Add lemon juice and floral water if using. Let cool completely.
- Prep the cheese: If using Akkawi or a salty cheese, soak in water for a few hours, changing water to remove salt. Drain and shred.
- Prepare kataifi: Gently pull apart and fluff kataifi dough. Mix with melted butter and orange coloring or turmeric, ensuring even coating.
- Assemble: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish. Press half the kataifi into the bottom. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a small border. Top with the remaining kataifi, pressing gently.
- Bake: Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until golden and crispy on top.
- Finish: Immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot Knafeh. Let it absorb for 5–10 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Top with chopped pistachios. Cut into slices and serve warm.
Notes
Use high-quality butter for best flavor and crispiness.Cool syrup + hot Knafeh = best texture (not soggy).Ashta gives a custard-like filling, while cheese gives a stretchy, creamy texture.Add a bit of semolina to the cheese filling for added texture, if desired.You can assemble ahead and refrigerate or freeze before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
