The Best Kunafa (Knafeh) Recipe – Crispy, Cheesy, Perfect!

kataifi pastry

🥗Healthier: whole wheat phyllo dough

💰Cheaper: regular phyllo dough

Whole wheat phyllo adds fiber, while regular phyllo is more accessible.

ricotta cheese

🥗Healthier: cottage cheese

💰Cheaper: cream cheese

Cottage cheese offers lower fat, while cream cheese is often less expensive.

pistachios

🥗Healthier: almonds

💰Cheaper: walnuts

Almonds are healthier, while walnuts are more budget-friendly.

honey

🥗Healthier: agave syrup

💰Cheaper: maple syrup

Agave syrup has a lower glycemic index, while maple syrup can be less costly.

Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5–6 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the lemon juice and rose water (if using), then set aside to cool completely.

Prepare the Kataifi dough: If frozen, thaw completely. Loosen the strands with your fingers until fluffy. Pour over the melted butter and mix until all strands are evenly coated.

Prepare the cheese filling: in a small bowl mix both cheeses until well combined.

Assemble the knafeh: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a 9-inch (23cm) non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Spread half the kataifi evenly across the bottom, pressing gently with a spatula.

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the kataifi, leaving a 1cm border around the edges. Top with the remaining kataifi, gently pressing down to create a smooth, even surface and seal the edges.

Cook the knafeh: Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown. Place a large plate or flat lid over the pan, hold firmly, and flip the knafeh onto it. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan, then slide the knafeh back in to cook the second side for another 5 minutes, until golden and crisp.

Add syrup & serve: Remove from heat and immediately pour the cooled syrup over the hot knafeh (use as much or as little as you prefer). Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chopped pistachios. Serve warm.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens