Hey! Today, I’m gonna share with you my absolute favorite recipe for knafeh through Beyond the Bayou Blog , a mouthwatering Middle Eastern dessert that’s just field with deliciousness.
It all started a few years back when I was visiting my friend Lisa make in her hometown of Beirut, Lebanon. One evening, as we strolled through the streets of the city, we stumbled upon a little bakery tucked away in a corner. The aroma of freshly baked pastries wafted through the air, drawing us in like magnets.
I eagerly followed her lead and ordered Philadelphia Cheesecake, Lemon Velvet Cake and a generous slice of knafeh, served piping hot and dripping with sweet syrup. With the first heavenly bite, I was transported to a world of pure bliss. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gave way to a gooey, cheesy center, while the fragrant syrup danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more with every bite.
From that moment on, I was hooked. I begged Lisa to teach me the secrets of making knafeh, and she gladly obliged, passing down her family recipe with all its cherished traditions. So, without further ado, let’s dive into making some irresistible knafeh together!
What is Knafeh?
Knafeh is a delicious dessert originating from the Middle East. It’s a sweet cheese pastry that boasts a crispy exterior and a gooey, indulgent interior. This treat is crafted using shredded phyllo dough, rich creamy cheese, and a luscious syrup infused with flavors such as orange blossom or rose water. Loved for its combination of crunchy texture, cheesy goodness, and delightful sweetness, knafeh is a true culinary delight!
Crunchy Knafeh Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Mixing Bowls
- Oven
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
- 250 gram Shredded phyllo dough (Kataifi)
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, melted
- 500 gran Ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease baking dish.
- Mix shredded phyllo dough with melted butter.
- Spread half of the dough in the baking dish.
- Crumble cheese evenly over the dough.
- Layer remaining dough on top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare syrup: Boil sugar, water, and lemon juice.
- Simmer syrup until slightly thickened, then add flavoring.
- Pour syrup over baked Knafeh.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes, then garnish with pistachios if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Knafeh.
Notes
- Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese and phyllo dough, for the best flavor and texture.
- Consistent Layers: Ensure that the layers of dough and cheese are evenly distributed to create a balanced bite in every serving.
- Golden Brown: Bake the Knafeh until it’s uniformly golden brown on top for a crispy texture and appealing appearance.
- Flavorful Syrup: Use fragrant and flavorful syrup, such as orange blossom or rose water-infused syrup, to enhance the taste of the Knafeh.
Nutrition
Time for the Tips!
- Proper Cooling: Allow it to cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to develop and prevent burning your mouth.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Garnish with chopped pistachios or other nuts for added texture and visual appeal, but ensure they complement the flavors of the dish.
- Serve Warm: This is best enjoyed warm, so serve it shortly after cooling for the most delicious experience.
- Butter Application: Ensure the melted butter is evenly distributed throughout the phyllo dough for a consistent texture. Don’t skimp on butter, as it adds richness and helps the layers crisp up during baking.
- Syrup Saturation: When pouring the syrup over the baked dish, ensure it covers the entire surface evenly. The syrup adds sweetness and moisture to the dessert, so don’t be afraid to be generous with it.
What to Serve with Knafeh?
