If you’ve ever tasted that golden, crispy, cheesy dessert in a Middle Eastern restaurant and wondered how to make it at home, this cheese kunafa recipe is exactly what you need. This sweet, buttery, and creamy dessert is a true showstopper and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re trying a simple cheese kunafa recipe for the first time or recreating the authentic cheese kunafa recipe like those found in Arabian bakeries, this guide will help you master it at home.
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Let’s dive into the best cheese kunafa recipe that brings the authentic taste of the Middle East straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Cheese Kunafa Recipe
Before we start, gather all your cheese kunafa ingredients for the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
For the Kunafa Crust:
- 300g shredded Kataifi pastry (kunafa dough)
- 150g unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- For the Cheese Filling:
- 250g Akawi cheese for kunafa (or mozzarella as a substitute)
- 100g ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp cream (optional for extra richness)
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water
For Garnishing:
- Crushed pistachios
- Rose petals (optional)
Directions
Follow these simple steps to create the authentic cheese kunafa recipe right at home:
1. Prepare the syrup:
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring it to a boil, then add lemon juice and rose water. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thick. Cool completely before use.
2. Prep the kunafa dough:
Shred the kataifi dough into small pieces using your hands or kitchen scissors. Mix with melted butter and a tablespoon of sugar until well-coated.
3. Layer the kunafa:
In a greased non-stick pan, spread half of the dough mixture evenly. Press down gently.
4. Add the cheese filling:
Mix Akawi cheese for kunafa with ricotta and cream. Spread this mixture evenly on top of the dough layer.
5. Add the top layer:
Cover the cheese filling with the remaining dough and press it lightly for a compact structure.
6. Bake:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
7. Add the syrup:
Once baked, pour cooled syrup evenly over the hot kunafa. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes.
8. Serve:
Garnish with crushed pistachios and serve warm. Enjoy the best cheese kunafa recipe ever — crispy, creamy, and sweet!
Bonus Tip
If you want that stretchy texture like the kunafa recipe Arabic restaurants serve, use a mix of Akawi cheese for kunafa and mozzarella. Also, soak the Akawi cheese in water for a few hours to reduce its saltiness.
Recipe Card
- Recipe Name: Cheese Kunafa Recipe
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Extra Time: 30 minutes (baking + syrup cooling)
- Overall Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 people
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 22g
- Sugar: 25g
This cheese kunafa recipe is indulgent but perfect for special occasions or festive gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What cheese is best for kunafa?
The best cheese for cheese kunafa recipe is Akawi cheese for kunafa, known for its mild flavor and stretchy texture. You can also mix it with mozzarella for a simple cheese kunafa recipe.
2. Is kunafa Arabic or Turkish?
Kunafa is an Arabic dessert, deeply rooted in Middle Eastern traditions. The authentic cheese kunafa recipe originates from Palestine and is popular across the Arab world.
3. Can I make cheese kunafa without an oven?
Yes! You can prepare this simple cheese kunafa recipe on a stovetop by cooking it in a non-stick pan on low heat until both sides are golden and crispy.
Conclusion
So, what do you think of this cheese kunafa recipe? It’s sweet, creamy, and utterly satisfying the perfect dessert to end any meal. Try it out and share your version online! Don’t forget to tag @onspotrecipe and use the hashtag #onspotrecipe if you make this at home.
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This is definitely one of the best cheese kunafa recipes you’ll ever try — rich, gooey, and beautifully golden.