Kanafeh or Kunafa or Kanafi
"My Dad is Palestinian and this was his FAVORITE dessert. I had it as often as he could find it or convince my Mom to make it while I was growing up. I am surprised how difficult it can be to find this in middle eastern eateries. So I thought I'd finally post the secret recipe. It is simple and delicious. The cheese doesn't have to be goat, just on the sweet/not salty side, fresh mozzarella works, just soak it to remove some salt if needed."
photo by kahetherington
- Ready In:
- 1hr 30mins
- Ingredients:
- 8
- Yields:
-
1 dessert
- Serves:
- 12-16
ingredients
-
Kanafi
- 1 (16 ounce) box shredded phyllo dough
- 8 ounces butter, unsalted
- 1 1⁄2 lbs whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1⁄2 lb fresh goat cheese or 1/2 lb light cream cheese
-
Simple Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
directions
-
Make Syrup first:
- Bring water and sugar to a boil, reduce heat.
- Add lemon juice and rose water (optional).
- Simmer until all sugar is dissolved, about 5-10min.
- Set aside to cool.
-
Kanafi:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Drain ricotta of excess liquid and mix with other cheese.
- Remove shredded phyllo dough from box and loosen shreds in a large bowl.
- Toss the shreds with melted butter to coat evenly.
- Arrange half of the buttered dough evenly on a 9X13 pan or baking dish.
- Spoon cheese mixture on top in an even layer.
- Place the remaining dough on top and press lightly with hands.
- Cover with foil and bake 30 min at 350°F.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 30 min or until crisp and golden .
- Serve warm or room temp with lemon syrup.
Questions & Replies
-
How do you shred the phyllo? I cant figure out how you get it into such thin shreds... -
Can you use phyllo sheets instead of the shredded phyllo?
Reviews
-
I made this but instead of the cheese filling I made my own custard... it is amazing!
RECIPE SUBMITTED BY
<p>I have always loved to cook, mainly because I love to eat! I learned how to make French Toast as a kid and it still one of my favorite breakfasts. If I eat out and want to re-create something or think I can make it better (hehehe), I check out my favorite recipie sites and get going. I also enjoy cooking to entertain; some of the best parties are at my house ;) </p>
