Knafeh, a sweet and savory pastry, has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. This delicate dessert, made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, and syrup, has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world. From classic combinations to innovative twists, knafeh is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 mouthwatering knafeh recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire your baking skills.
Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventure-seeker, there’s something for everyone in our collection of creative knafeh recipes. From classic cheese and orange blossom syrup to pistachio-crusted and rose water-infused treats, we’ve got the perfect recipe to tantalize your taste buds.
So, let’s get started and explore the world of knafeh!
Classic Cheese Knafeh with Orange Blossom Syrup
This sweet and savory pastry is a staple of Middle Eastern desserts. Shredded phyllo dough filled with melted cheese, wrapped in a syrupy orange blossom goodness, makes for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package shredded phyllo dough (about 16 sheets)
– 1 cup Akkawi or Nabulsi cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Orange Blossom Syrup (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cheese, sugar, and cardamom.
3. Layer shredded phyllo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
4. Pour the cheese mixture over the phyllo layers.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Orange Blossom Syrup:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, stirring to dissolve sugar. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in orange blossom water.
Pistachio-Crusted Knafeh with Rose Water
This Middle Eastern-inspired dessert combines the crispy, nutty texture of knafeh with the subtle sweetness and fragrance of rose water. The pistachio crust adds a delightful crunch and flavor to this sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package knafeh dough (or phyllo sheets)
– 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
– 1 tablespoon rose water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the knafeh dough and cut into desired shapes.
3. In a bowl, mix together pistachios, sugar, and salt.
4. Dip each knafeh piece into the melted butter, then coat with the pistachio mixture.
5. Place coated knafeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Drizzle with rose water and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate-Stuffed Knafeh with Hazelnuts
This recipe combines the classic Middle Eastern pastry knafeh with the indulgent flavors of chocolate and hazelnut. The result is a rich and decadent dessert that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of knafeh dough (usually found in Middle Eastern or Mediterranean markets)
– 1 cup of milk
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup of dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa solids)
– 1/4 cup of chopped hazelnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the knafeh dough into small pieces and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk and melted butter.
3. Stuff each cooked knafeh piece with a spoonful of chocolate chips and top with chopped hazelnuts.
4. Place the stuffed knafeh pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with the milk-butter mixture.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the chocolate is melted and the pastry is golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutella and Banana Knafeh Rolls
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these sweet and indulgent treats! These Nutella and banana-filled knafeh rolls are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 ripe banana, mashed
– 2 tablespoons Nutella
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in milk, melted butter, and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spread mashed banana and Nutella on one half of the dough.
6. Fold the other half over to form a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baklava-Inspired Layered Knafeh
This sweet treat combines the nutty flavors of baklava with the soft, cheesy goodness of knafeh. A perfect dessert for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded phyllo dough
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine phyllo dough, walnuts, sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix well.
3. Layer half of the mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle with feta cheese and rose water (if using). Repeat layers.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut and Almond Knafeh Bites
Coconut and Almond Knafeh Bites: A sweet and indulgent treat that combines the warm spices of traditional knafeh with the creamy richness of coconut and crunchy texture of almonds. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in shredded coconut, chopped almonds, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each bite.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Date-Filled Knafeh with Cardamom Syrup
Knafeh is a classic Middle Eastern pastry filled with sweet, sticky dates and topped with crispy phyllo dough. This recipe takes it to the next level by adding a fragrant cardamom syrup for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of shredded phyllo dough (about 20 sheets)
– 1 cup of chopped pitted dates
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup of water
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dates and granulated sugar.
3. Brush one sheet of phyllo dough with vegetable oil and place a spoonful of date mixture in the center.
4. Fold the dough into triangles and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. For the cardamom syrup, combine water and ground cardamom in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Drizzle warm syrup over the baked knafeh and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon-Infused Knafeh with Honey Drizzle
A refreshing twist on the traditional knafeh, this lemon-infused version is perfect for spring and summer gatherings. The sweetness of the honey drizzle balances out the brightness of the lemon, creating a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package knafeh dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Honey drizzle (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the knafeh dough to desired thickness.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, and melted butter.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the edges over to form a crust.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Drizzle:
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Mix together and drizzle over warm knafeh.
Ricotta and Fig Knafeh Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the sweetness of caramelized figs, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup caramelized figs (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, and honey until smooth.
4. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Arrange caramelized figs on top of the ricotta mixture.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Note: To caramelize figs, heat 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup of fresh or dried figs and cook, stirring frequently, until the figs are tender and caramelized.
Matcha Green Tea Knafeh with White Chocolate
Combine the nutty flavor of matcha green tea with the richness of white chocolate for a unique and delicious knafah. This Middle Eastern-inspired dessert is perfect for those looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, matcha powder, and salt.
3. Add the melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Allow knafahs to cool completely before drizzling with white chocolate chips melted in the microwave (30 seconds at a time, stirring between each interval).
8. Drizzle honey over the top of the white chocolate.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Apple Knafeh with Cinnamon
Caramelized Apple Knafeh with Cinnamon: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Middle Eastern Dessert
This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of caramelized apples and the crunch of crispy phyllo, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 phyllo sheets
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced apples and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate pan, combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until caramel forms.
4. Layer phyllo sheets in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing with melted butter between each layer.
5. Arrange cooked apple mixture on top of phyllo layers, followed by caramel sauce.
6. Sprinkle chopped walnuts (if using) over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mango and Cream Cheese Knafeh
Elevate your dessert game with this unique twist on the classic knafeh, featuring sweet and tangy mango paired with creamy cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of knafeh dough (or homemade phyllo dough)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Unroll the knafeh dough and cut into desired shapes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together mango, cream cheese, sugar, honey, and salt until smooth.
4. Place a spoonful of the mango mixture onto each piece of dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges to seal.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Za’atar Knafeh with Labneh
This recipe combines the classic flavors of knafeh with the earthy, herbaceous notes of za’atar and the creamy richness of labneh. Perfect for a savory snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package knafeh dough (about 10 sheets)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons za’atar
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or other salty cheese)
– 1/4 cup labneh (lebanese yogurt cheese)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll knafeh dough and cut into 8 equal pieces.
3. Brush each piece with olive oil and sprinkle with za’atar.
4. Top each piece with crumbled feta cheese and a dollop of labneh.
5. Fold the dough over filling to form triangles, pressing edges to seal.
6. Place knafeh on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Velvet Knafeh with Cream Cheese Frosting
Knafeh is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert, typically flavored with orange blossom water and topped with a sweet syrup. Here’s a creative take on the classic recipe, incorporating the deep red color and tangy flavor of red velvet cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 package knafeh dough (or homemade version)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out knafeh dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into desired shapes and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. For the cream cheese frosting, beat butter, confectioners’ sugar, and cream cheese until smooth. Add vanilla extract and red food coloring; mix well.
5. Assemble knafeh with cream cheese frosting, dusting with powdered sugar as desired.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Tahini and Halva Knafeh Swirls
These sweet treats combine the creamy richness of tahini with the nutty flavor of halva, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/2 cup halva crumbs
– Confectioners’ 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 flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
4. Spread 1-2 teaspoons tahini on one half of each piece, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with halva crumbs.
5. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges together to seal. Place on prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Strawberry and Rose Knafeh Parfait
This recipe combines the sweetness of strawberries with the exotic charm of rose syrup, layered in a crispy knafeh pastry. Perfect for dessert or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of knafeh pastry (about 12-15 sheets)
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rose syrup
– Whipped cream or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll knafeh pastry sheets and separate into individual strands.
3. Brush each strand with melted butter, then layer in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. In a separate bowl, mix sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and let sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to release.
6. Layer baked knafeh pastry with strawberry mixture, rose syrup, and whipped cream (if using).
7. Repeat layers one more time, ending with whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Knafeh with Maple Glaze
Warm up to the flavors of fall with this sweet and spicy dessert, featuring knafeh’s signature shredded phyllo and a rich maple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 package knafeh dough
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp maple syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw knafeh dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Roll out knafeh dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shape.
5. Place dough in a baking dish, overlapping pieces if necessary.
6. Pour pumpkin mixture over dough, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While the knafeh is still warm, drizzle with maple syrup and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkish Delight Knafeh with Pistachios
This traditional Middle Eastern dessert combines the iconic Turkish delight with the crunch of pistachios, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Turkish delight (cut into small pieces)
– 1/2 cup shredded phyllo dough
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together shredded phyllo dough and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add chopped pistachios and stir until evenly distributed.
4. Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange Turkish delight pieces on top of the phyllo mixture.
6. Sprinkle sugar and rose water (if using) over the Turkish delight.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Saffron and Almond Knafeh with Honey Syrup
This traditional Arabic dessert is a showstopper, with layers of crispy phyllo dough, creamy saffron-infused cheese, and crunchy almonds, all drizzled with a sweet honey syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon of saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon of hot water
– 1/2 cup of chopped almonds
– Honey syrup (recipe below)
Honey Syrup:
– 1 cup of honey
– 1 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and saffron mixture.
4. Layer the phyllo dough with the cheese mixture, ending with a layer of phyllo on top.
5. Sprinkle chopped almonds over the top layer of phyllo.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. While the knafeh is baking, prepare the honey syrup by boiling the honey and water together in a saucepan until the mixture thickens slightly.
8. Remove knafeh from oven and drizzle with warm honey syrup.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mini Knafeh Cups with Mixed Nuts
These bite-sized treats combine the classic Israeli dessert knafeh with the crunch of mixed nuts, making them perfect for a sweet and satisfying snack or party favor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, and walnuts)
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, mixed nuts, and rose water (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a cup shape.
5. Place a mini knafeh cup in each muffin tin. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of knafeh with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic cheese and orange blossom syrup to innovative flavors like pistachio-crusted, chocolate-stuffed, and matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone. Try layering knafeh with baklava-inspired goodness or indulging in sweet treats like caramelized apple and strawberry rose parfaits. For a savory twist, enjoy za’atar knafeh with labneh or saffron and almond knafeh with honey syrup. With so many options, you’ll never get bored of this Middle Eastern dessert!
