Kunafe Kenafe Knafe Gimzawia

Indulge in the luscious decadence of Kunafe Kenafe Knafe Gimzawia, a classic Middle Eastern dessert that masterfully combines crispy layers of buttery kataifi dough with a rich, gooey filling of mozzarella and ricotta cheeses. Baked until golden and drenched in a fragrant syrup infused with rose water and orange blossom, this dessert is a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Topped with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for a vibrant finish, this kunafe is an irresistible treat perfect for special occasions or an everyday indulgence. With just 30 minutes of prep time, it’s a surefire way to bring the authentic taste of the Levant to your table. Whether served with tea or coffee, this dessert will captivate your senses with its aromatic sweetness and crispy-chewy perfection!

Nutriscore Rating: 52/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams Kataifi dough (shredded phyllo)
• 200 grams Unsalted butter
• 300 grams Mozzarella cheese
• 250 grams Ricotta cheese
• 250 grams Granulated sugar
• 250 milliliters Water
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Rose water
• 1 tablespoon Orange blossom water
• 50 grams Crushed pistachios (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch round baking pan with butter or non-stick spray and set it aside.

Step 2

Place the kataifi dough in a large bowl. Gently separate the shredded strands with your hands to loosen them. Melt the butter and pour it evenly over the dough. Mix well to coat all the strands in butter.

Step 3

In another bowl, mix the mozzarella and ricotta cheeses together until smooth and well-combined.

Step 4

Spread half of the buttered kataifi dough evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Press it down gently to create an even layer.

Step 5

Add the cheese mixture on top of the kataifi layer, spreading it evenly but leaving about 1 cm of space around the edges.

Step 6

Cover the cheese layer with the remaining kataifi dough, pressing it down gently to set the layers.

Step 7

Bake the kunafe in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Step 8

While the kunafe bakes, prepare the sugar syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer for 7-10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the rose water and orange blossom water.

Step 9

Once the kunafe is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm sugar syrup evenly over the top. Be sure to cover the entire surface for even sweetness.

Step 10

Allow the kunafe to cool for 10-15 minutes to absorb the syrup fully.

Step 11

Garnish with crushed pistachios for added flavor and visual appeal, if desired.

Step 12

Slice into wedges and serve warm. Enjoy this indulgent and aromatic dessert with your favorite tea or coffee.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1848.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5697.7

Total Fat 307.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 159.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.2g
Cholesterol 791.1mg	0%
Sodium 3885.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 643.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.4g	0%
Total Sugars 270.0g
Protein 151.5g	0%

Vitamin D 48IU	0%
Calcium 3267.8mg	0%
Iron 10.7mg	0%
Potassium 1426.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 46.5%

Protein: 10.2%

Carbs: 43.3%