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Homemade Lebanese Knafeh

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Homemade Lebanese Knafeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with buttery shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), melty cheese filling, and fragrant orange blossom syrup. It’s crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and beautifully sweetened for a luxurious treat.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound kataifi dough (shredded phyllo pastry), thawed
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 pound Akawi cheese, soaked and shredded (or mozzarella/ricotta substitute)
  • 1/4 cup semolina (optional, for a creamy layer)
  • 1/2 cup milk (if using semolina)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange blossom water
  • 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crushed pistachios for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. If using Akawi cheese, soak in cold water for several hours or overnight, changing water a few times. Drain and shred the cheese.
  3. In a saucepan, melt the butter and toss with the kataifi dough until fully coated and separated.
  4. To make syrup: combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in orange blossom water and rose water (if using). Set aside to cool.
  5. Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish. Press half the buttered kataifi into the bottom to form a firm, even layer.
  6. Spread the shredded cheese evenly over the base. If using semolina, cook it with milk until thickened and add over the cheese layer.
  7. Top with the remaining kataifi dough and press down gently to compact the top.
  8. Bake for 30–40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
  9. Remove from oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot knafeh.
  10. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the syrup. Garnish with crushed pistachios, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

Use mozzarella or ricotta if Akawi cheese is unavailable.Syrup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.To maintain crispness, avoid covering while hot.For a richer flavor, combine cheese with ashta or clotted cream.Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/homemade-lebanese-knafeh/