Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet and savory delights! Knafeh, also known as shakarpara or knafeh bil-jibneh, is a Middle Eastern dessert that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many around the globe. This crispy, cheesy delight is typically topped with syrup and chopped nuts, but we’re taking it to the next level by sharing 20 delicious Knafeh recipes you must try! From classic cheese knafeh to innovative twists like Nutella-stuffed and coconut-infused, there’s something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through the world of knafeh, exploring new flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory snacks, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness!
Classic Cheese Knafeh
Knafeh, a popular Middle Eastern dessert, is a sweet treat that combines crispy phyllo dough with a rich cheese filling. This classic recipe is a staple of Lebanese cuisine and is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of Akkawi or similar white cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of rose water (optional)
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled Akkawi cheese, shredded mozzarella, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well.
4. Layer the phyllo dough with the cheese mixture, finishing with a layer of dough on top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pistachio Knafeh
Knafeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that combines crispy phyllo pastry with a sweet and nutty filling. This Pistachio Knafeh recipe adds a vibrant green twist with the addition of pistachios, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon of rose water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together sugar, pistachios, rose water (if using), and salt.
4. Layer the phyllo dough with the sugar mixture, brushing each layer with melted butter.
5. Roll out the remaining phyllo dough into a thin sheet and place on top of the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rosewater Knafeh
Knafeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with shredded phyllo, cheese, and sweet syrup. This rosewater-infused version adds an extra layer of sophistication and fragrance to this classic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo (about 12-16 sheets)
– 1 cup of Akkawi or Nabulsia cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons of rosewater
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded phyllo, crumbled cheese, sugar, rosewater, and salt. Mix well.
3. Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with some vegetable oil.
4. Add the phyllo mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
6. Allow the knafeh to cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Nutella-Stuffed Knafeh
Knafeh is a popular Middle Eastern dessert made with shredded phyllo, cheese, and syrup. In this recipe, we’ll take it to the next level by adding a rich Nutella filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo (about 16-20 sheets)
– 1 cup grated Akkawi or ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons rose water (optional)
– 1 jar Nutella
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Layer the phyllo sheets in a shallow dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
3. Mix the cheese, sugar, and pistachios; spread half of it on top of the phyllo layers.
4. Spread the Nutella evenly over the cheese mixture.
5. Top with the remaining cheese mixture.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drizzle with syrup (optional) and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cream-Filled Knafeh
Knafeh is a popular dessert originating from the Middle East, typically made with shredded phyllo dough, nuts, and sweet syrup. This recipe gives you a twist by filling it with creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo dough
– 1 cup of chopped pistachios or almonds
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of rose water (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded phyllo dough and chopped nuts.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
4. Add the cream and rose water (if using) to the sugar mixture and whisk until stiff peaks form.
5. Layer the phyllo-nut mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the cream mixture and smooth out.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orange Blossom Knafeh
Knafeh is a beloved dessert in the Middle East, typically flavored with rose water or orange blossom water. This recipe adds a bright and citrusy twist to the classic version, perfect for spring and summer celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded phyllo dough
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange blossom water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded phyllo dough, granulated sugar, and orange blossom water. Mix until the pastry is evenly coated.
3. Add melted butter, ground cardamom, and mix until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool slightly before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Drizzle Knafeh
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and indulgent chocolate drizzle knafeh recipe, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. This Middle Eastern-inspired pastry is filled with shredded phyllo dough, nuts, and spices, then topped with a velvety chocolate glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of knafeh mix (or homemade phyllo dough)
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Follow package instructions to prepare the knafeh mix.
2. In a bowl, combine chopped pistachios, rose water, orange blossom water, and cardamom.
3. Mix melted butter with sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Combine the sugar mixture with the knafeh dough and fold in the nut mixture.
5. Roll out the dough to desired thickness and cut into squares.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over warm knafeh. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Walnut Knafeh
Knafeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with shredded phyllo, cheese, and nuts. This walnut variation adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor to the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo (about 16 sheets)
– 1 cup of grated Akkawi or similar cheese
– 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon of rose water (optional)
– 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded phyllo and grated cheese.
3. Add the chopped walnuts and mix until well combined.
4. If using rose or orange blossom water, add 1 tablespoon of each and mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the phyllo is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Date-Filled Knafeh
Experience the warmth of the Middle East with this traditional dessert, where crispy phyllo pastry wraps around a sweet and sticky date filling. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped dates
– 1 tablespoon rose water
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped dates, rose water, orange blossom water, cardamom, and salt.
4. Layer the phyllo dough in a baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
5. Spoon the date mixture onto the top layer of phyllo.
6. Roll up the phyllo tightly and place seam-side down.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Enjoy your sweet and crispy Date-Filled Knafeh!
Coconut Knafeh
A classic Middle Eastern dessert, Coconut Knafeh is a sweet and indulgent treat that combines crispy shredded phyllo dough with creamy coconut custard. This recipe adds a tropical twist to the traditional version by incorporating shredded coconut into the custard.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of rose water (optional)
– 1/2 cup of shredded coconut
– Vegetable oil for brushing phyllo dough
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. Brush a 9×13 inch baking dish with a thin layer of vegetable oil.
4. Layer the phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with a little water and stacking them on top of each other.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut milk, sugar, salt, and rose water (if using).
6. Pour the coconut custard mixture over the phyllo layers and sprinkle with shredded coconut.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Layered Knafeh with Ashta
This sweet treat combines the crispy, cheesy goodness of knafeh with the creamy, dreamy texture of ashta. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo dough (kadaif)
– 1 cup of melted butter
– 1 cup of grated akkawi cheese (or substitute with ricotta or feta)
– 1/2 cup of ashta (see recipe below) or store-bought ashta
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Ashta Recipe:
– 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon of rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Layer the shredded phyllo dough, melted butter, and grated cheese in a baking dish.
3. Top with ashta and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
4. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Knafeh Bites
Take a break from traditional dessert options and try these bite-sized treats that blend the sweetness of knafeh with the convenience of mini portions.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 1/4 cup of rose water
– 1/4 cup of orange blossom water
– 1/2 cup of chopped pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, rose water, and orange blossom water.
4. Layer the phyllo dough with the sugar mixture, chopped pistachios, and cinnamon, starting and ending with phyllo.
5. Cut into desired mini size (about 1-inch squares).
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baklava-Inspired Knafeh
This recipe combines the flaky, crispy texture of knafeh with the sweet and nutty flavors of baklava. The result is a delicious dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded phyllo dough
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rose water (optional)
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Layer phyllo dough in a shallow baking dish, brushing each layer with some of the melted butter.
3. Sprinkle chopped pistachios and sugar over the top of the final layer of phyllo dough.
4. Drizzle with rose water and orange blossom water (if using), then sprinkle with cinnamon and cardamom.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cardamom-Scented Knafeh
This sweet Middle Eastern dessert combines crispy shredded phyllo with a fragrant cardamom-infused syrup, topped with chopped pistachios and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. A perfect treat for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo (about 12-16 sheets)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon rose water (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the phyllo sheets in a baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
3. Bake the phyllo for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, cardamom, and rose water (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove the syrup from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. Assemble the knafeh by placing the crispy phyllo on a serving plate, drizzling with the cardamom syrup, and topping with chopped pistachios.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Almond Crunch Knafeh
This sweet treat combines the traditional knafeh pastry with a crunchy almond topping, perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings. With its crispy phyllo layers and nutty flavor, Almond Crunch Knafeh is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of knafeh dough (or shredded phyllo)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the knafeh dough into small pieces and layer them in a baking dish.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, flour, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until well combined.
3. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the knafeh layers.
4. Top with sliced almonds.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Golden Crispy Knafeh
Knafeh is a popular Palestinian dessert made with shredded phyllo, cheese, and syrup. This recipe gives you a crispy and golden take on this classic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo (about 10-12 sheets)
– 1 cup of grated Akkawi or Nabulsia cheese
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of rose water
– 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cheese, sugar, rose water, and orange blossom water.
3. Layer the shredded phyllo in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
4. Pour the cheese mixture over the phyllo layers.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
7. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Cheese and Honey Knafeh
Sweet Cheese and Honey Knafeh Recipe
This sweet and indulgent treat is a twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, knafeh. The combination of crispy shredded phyllo pastry, creamy cheese filling, and drizzle of warm honey will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo pastry (about 12 sheets)
– 1 cup crumbled ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Thaw phyllo pastry according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
4. Layer 6 sheets of phyllo pastry in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
5. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
6. Top with remaining 6 sheets of phyllo pastry, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and drizzle with warm honey.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vermicelli Knafeh
This traditional Palestinian dessert is a twist on the classic knafeh, substituting vermicelli noodles for shredded phyllo dough. The result is a sweet and syrupy treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vermicelli noodles
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon rose water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
– 1/2 cup pistachio or almonds, chopped
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, rose water, and orange blossom water (if using). Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the syrup thickens slightly.
3. Add cooked vermicelli noodles to the syrup and stir until well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
5. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Zest Knafeh
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of shredded phyllo with the brightness of lemon zest and a hint of orange blossom water.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– Lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded phyllo, granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Pour in melted butter and mix until the phyllo is evenly coated.
4. Divide the mixture into two portions and shape each into a log.
5. Place logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before slicing and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Sprinkle lemon zest and drizzle with lemon juice and orange blossom water.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Knafeh with Ice Cream
Transform traditional knafeh into a decadent dessert by caramelizing the semolina pastry and serving it with creamy ice cream. This unique treat is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of knafeh dough (usually found in Middle Eastern markets)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the knafeh dough and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the sugar.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sugar is caramelized and the knafeh is golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Serve warm with your favorite scoop of ice cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and savory world of knafeh! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes that take this Middle Eastern dessert to new heights. From classic cheese knafeh to creative twists like Nutella-stuffed, rosewater-infused, and even baklava-inspired variations, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a unique dessert to impress your guests, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get baking, and discover the magic of knafeh!
