Shredded filo dough baked to a shattering golden crust over a molten layer of stretchy sweet cheese, drenched in rose-scented sugar syrup. This legendary dessert is pure decadence in every gooey, crunchy bite.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Presentation Guide
Vessel: round platter, inverted
Garnishes: crushed pistachios, rose petals
Accompaniments: additional syrup on the side
Instructions
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1
Soak akkawi cheese in water for at least 6 hours, changing water every 2 hours to remove excess salt. Drain, shred, and mix with ricotta.
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2
Make syrup by boiling sugar, water, and lemon juice for 8 minutes. Add rose water and orange blossom water, stir, and cool completely.
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3
Process kunafa dough briefly to break up strands. Toss thoroughly with melted butter until every strand is well coated and golden-colored.
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4
Press two-thirds of the buttered dough firmly into a round baking pan, creating a compact, even base and pressing up the sides slightly.
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5
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the dough base. Top with the remaining buttered dough, pressing gently to create a flat top layer.
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6
Bake at 180C for 35-40 minutes until deeply golden and crispy. Immediately pour cold syrup over the hot kunafa, invert onto a platter, and garnish with crushed pistachios.
Did You Know?
In Jordan, kunafa is so beloved that shops specializing only in this dessert have lines out the door during Ramadan evenings.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- round baking pan
- saucepan
- food processor
Garnishing
crushed pistachios, rose petals
Accompaniments
additional syrup on the side
The Story Behind Kunafa
Kunafa has a storied history stretching back to the Fatimid dynasty and possibly earlier. In Jordan, the Nablusi-style kunafa with its stretchy cheese filling became the gold standard, brought by Palestinian families who settled in Jordan and shared their legendary recipes. The dessert holds a sacred place during Ramadan, when families break their fast and gather at kunafa shops for freshly baked trays dripping with syrup. Making kunafa at home is a cherished tradition passed from mothers to daughters.
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