Knafeh

Indulge in the sweet, aromatic layers of Knafeh, a Middle Eastern dessert made with crispy kataifi pastry and gooey cheese, drizzled with rose water syrup. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful end to any meal.

• 500 g kataifi pastry
• 250 g unsalted butter
• 300 g sweet cheese
• 200 g sugar
• 200 ml water
• 1 tbsp rose water
• 1 tbsp ground pistachios

Method

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. 2

   In a bowl, mix the kataifi pastry with melted butter until evenly coated.

3. 3

   Spread half of the buttered kataifi into a greased baking dish to form the bottom layer.

4. 4

   Evenly distribute the sweet cheese over the kataifi layer, then top with the remaining kataifi, pressing down gently.

5. 5

   Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

6. 6

   While the knafeh is baking, prepare the syrup by boiling sugar and water in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves. Add rose water if using.

7. 7

   Once the knafeh is done baking, pour the syrup evenly over it while it's still hot.

8. 8

   Let it cool slightly, then garnish with ground pistachios before serving warm.