Knafeh, a Middle Eastern delight that combines crispy shredded phyllo with sweet and gooey cheese filling, has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. But why settle for just one classic recipe when you can experiment with endless flavor combinations? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore 20 irresistibly sweet knafeh recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire your creativity in the kitchen.
From classic cheese knafeh infused with rose water syrup to chocolate-stuffed knafeh topped with hazelnuts, each recipe is a unique twist on this beloved dessert. Whether you’re a fan of nuts, spices, or fruit, there’s something for everyone in our collection of knafeh recipes. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge your sweet tooth with these scrumptious treats!
Classic Cheese Knafeh with Rose Water Syrup
This iconic Middle Eastern pastry is elevated by the addition of rose water syrup, creating a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 1 egg, beaten
– Rose water syrup (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, milk, yeast, and beaten egg. Mix until smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it forms a ball. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough, roll out to 1/8-inch thickness, and cut into squares.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Rose Water Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons rose water
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in rose water. Let cool before serving.
Pistachio-Crusted Knafeh with Orange Blossom Syrup
A sweet and crunchy twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, knafeh. The pistachio crust adds a delightful texture to this fragrant pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of knafeh dough (or make your own)
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup orange blossom syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out knafeh dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pistachios, sugar, and salt.
3. Spread the pistachio mixture evenly over the knafeh dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
5. Place the knafeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. While the knafeh is baking, warm the orange blossom syrup by gently heating it in a saucepan over low heat.
7. Once the knafeh is done, drizzle with warmed orange blossom syrup and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate-Stuffed Knafeh with Hazelnut Topping
Experience the perfect blend of textures and flavors in this decadent dessert, featuring tender knafeh dough wrapped around a rich chocolate filling and topped with toasted hazelnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, milk, and yeast to the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk and place 1 tablespoon of chocolate chips in the center.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Place knafeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While knafeh is baking, toast hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.
9. Remove knafeh from the oven and top each piece with toasted hazelnuts.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cream-Filled Knafeh with Cardamom Syrup
A twist on the classic Palestinian dessert, this creamy knafeh is filled with a sweet cardamom syrup and topped with chopped pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded phyllo dough
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon cardamom syrup (see below)
– Chopped pistachios for garnish
Cardamom Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine phyllo dough, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Mix in melted butter until well combined.
4. Roll out dough into a thin sheet.
5. Cut into desired shape and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Allow knafeh to cool completely.
7. Fill with whipped heavy cream and drizzle with cardamom syrup.
8. Garnish with chopped pistachios.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Nutella Swirl Knafeh with Crushed Walnuts
A twist on the classic Palestinian dessert, this recipe combines rich Nutella with crushed walnuts for a delicious and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup Nutella
– 1/2 cup crushed walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk and softened butter until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Spread Nutella over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Sprinkle crushed walnuts evenly over Nutella layer.
8. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
9. Place the knafeh in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Layered Knafeh with Mascarpone and Dates
A twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, this layered knafeh combines creamy mascarpone cheese with sweet dates for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo dough (about 12-15 sheets)
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped dates
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mascarpone cheese, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Layer the phyllo dough sheets in a 9×13 inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
4. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture on top of the phyllo layers.
5. Top with chopped dates, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Repeat layers: phyllo, mascarpone, and dates.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baklava-Inspired Knafeh with Honey Drizzle
A twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, this knafeh combines crispy phyllo layers with a sweet and nutty filling, topped with a drizzle of warm honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon of honey
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 the chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Layer the phyllo dough in a baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
5. Sprinkle the walnut mixture evenly over the top of the phyllo layers.
6. Roll up the knafeh tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Drizzle with warm honey before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mini Knafeh Cups with Saffron Syrup
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized treats, infused with the subtle warmth of saffron syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Saffron syrup (see below)
Saffron Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving with Saffron Syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Knafeh with Coconut Cream and Agave
Discover the creamy, sweet, and utterly delightful combination of vegan knafeh, coconut cream, and agave. This traditional Middle Eastern dessert gets a modern twist with plant-based ingredients that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or oat)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 can full-fat coconut cream (chilled)
– 2 tablespoons agave nectar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together semolina flour, cornstarch, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine non-dairy milk, coconut oil, maple syrup, and baking powder. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place knafeh shapes on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow to cool before serving with coconut cream, agave nectar, and lemon juice. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Knafeh Cheesecake with Raspberry Coulis
A twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, this Knafeh cheesecake combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavors of raspberry coulis.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecake:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 pounds cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the raspberry coulis:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating overnight.
7. For coulis, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a blender. Blend until smooth.
8. Serve chilled cheesecake with warm raspberry coulis.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Savory Knafeh with Halloumi and Za’atar
A twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, this savory knafeh combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the earthy flavor of za’atar. Perfect for a unique appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package knafeh dough (or substitute with phyllo)
– 1/2 cup grated halloumi cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon za’atar
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw knafeh dough according to package instructions.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
4. Sprinkle grated halloumi cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
5. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle za’atar over the cheese.
6. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Brush the top with a little water and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Knafeh Rolls with Almond Filling
These sweet and flaky rolls are a classic Middle Eastern dessert, filled with a fragrant almond filling that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Istanbul.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 cup blanched almonds
+ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
+ 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
+ Pinch of ground cardamom (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add oil and lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet.
6. Place 1/6 of the almond filling in the center of each sheet, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Fold the sides and roll up the knafeh to form a neat log shape.
8. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
9. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Velvet Knafeh with Cream Cheese Frosting
This classic Middle Eastern dessert gets a twist with the addition of cream cheese frosting, creating a velvety and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package knafeh dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out knafeh dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
4. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioner’s sugar (to taste)
Combine cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth. Gradually add confectioner’s sugar to desired consistency.
Knafeh Parfait with Whipped Cream and Berries
Knafeh Parfait with Whipped Cream and Berries
A twist on the traditional Middle Eastern dessert, this parfait combines crispy knafeh pastry with whipped cream, fresh berries, and a touch of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 package knafeh pastry (usually found in Middle Eastern grocery stores)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the knafeh pastry into small pieces and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
3. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the mixed berries and honey.
5. To assemble the parfait, layer the baked knafeh pastry, whipped cream, and berry mixture in small glasses or cups. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Caramelized Banana Knafeh with Pecans
Transform ordinary banana bread into a show-stopping dessert by caramelizing bananas and pairing them with crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and mashed bananas. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Lemon-Infused Knafeh with Mint Garnish
Lemon-Infused Knafeh with Mint Garnish Recipe
This refreshing dessert combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of knafeh, a traditional Middle Eastern pastry. A zesty lemon syrup infuses the crispy phyllo layers with a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and lemon juice until dissolved.
4. Layer the phyllo dough with the melted butter, brushing each layer with some of the lemon syrup.
5. Roll out the knafeh to desired thickness (about 1/8 inch).
6. Cut into diamond shapes or squares.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and garnishing with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Knafeh Bread Pudding with Vanilla Custard
Transform the flavors of traditional Knafeh bread into a decadent bread pudding, topped with a rich and creamy vanilla custard.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale Knafeh bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, sugar, melted butter, eggs, cinnamon, and cardamom.
3. Mix until well combined, then pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the vanilla custard: Whisk together heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl.
6. Pour the warm bread pudding into individual serving cups or ramekins.
7. Top with the chilled vanilla custard.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve Warm: Yes
Spiced Knafeh with Cinnamon and Clove Syrup
Experience the warm spices of the Middle East with this traditional Lebanese pastry, infused with the sweetness of cinnamon and clove syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten
– Cinnamon and clove syrup (see below)
Cinnamon and Clove Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 3-4 whole cloves
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add melted butter, sugar, warm water, and beaten egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Brush tops with cinnamon and clove syrup (see below).
8. Cook in boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until pastry rises to the surface.
Cinnamon and Clove Syrup:
1. Combine sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Strain syrup through a fine-mesh sieve before using.
Knafeh Tart with Apricot Glaze
A sweet and savory twist on the classic Middle Eastern pastry, this Knafeh Tart combines crispy phyllo layers with a tangy apricot glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (thawed)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup apricot preserves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Layer phyllo dough in a 9-inch tart pan, brushing each sheet with some of the melted butter.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, flour, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the phyllo layers.
4. Roll out remaining phyllo sheets into thin strips and weave into a lattice pattern on top of the tart.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While the tart is baking, combine apricot preserves and chopped parsley in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until warm and syrupy.
7. Remove tart from oven and let cool slightly. Brush with apricot glaze.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Layered Knafeh Ice Cream Cake
A sweet and unique dessert that combines the classic Middle Eastern pastry knafeh with creamy ice cream, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of knafeh dough (usually found in Middle Eastern markets)
– 1 pint of your favorite ice cream flavor
– 1 cup of whipped cream
– 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios or almonds
– 1 tablespoon of honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Roll out the knafeh dough and cut into thin sheets.
3. Layer the knafeh sheets in a 9×13-inch baking dish, trimming edges as needed.
4. Place a scoop of ice cream on top of each layer of knafeh.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of knafeh on top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the knafeh is golden brown and the ice cream is slightly melted.
8. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet and savory delights with these 20 delicious knafeh recipes! From classic cheese knafeh with rose water syrup to creative variations like chocolate-stuffed, cream-filled, and even vegan options, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover innovative flavor combinations like pistachio-crusted with orange blossom syrup or baklava-inspired with honey drizzle. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or a savory snack, these irresistible knafeh recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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