Authentic Syrian Kunafa Recipe – Recipe by Die Prinzen

An Arabic dessert spread is not complete without Kunafa! It is one of the most popular sweets in the Levant region, especially in Syria, and is characterized by its rich taste, crispy texture and creamy filling. In this article, we will show you how to prepare Syrian Kunafa step by step at home.

Ingredients:

For the Kunafa:

• 500 g kunafa pastry threads (fresh or frozen)
• 200 g local ghee or melted butter
• 2 tbsp fine sugar

For the filling:

• 250 g cream or homemade qishta (alternatively cream cheese)
• Or soaked Akkawi cheese (soaked in water to remove the salt) – optional

For the sugar syrup:

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp orange blossom or rose water (optional)

Preparation:

1. Prepare the syrup:
   • Place the sugar and water in a pot over medium heat.
   • Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add the lemon juice.
   • Let the syrup boil for 7-10 minutes until it thickens.
   • Remove from heat and add the orange blossom or rose water, then let it cool.
2. Prepare the kunafa:
   • Shred the kunafa with your fingertips or use a food processor to finely chop it.
   • Add the melted ghee and sugar to the kunafa and mix well until fully absorbed.
3. Prepare the baking dish:
   • Grease a kunafa baking dish with ghee or butter.
   • Place half of the kunafa mixture and press it firmly.
   • Distribute the cream or cheese evenly on top, avoiding the edges.
   • Place the second half of the kunafa and press gently.
4. Baking:
   • Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C.
   • Bake the kunafa for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
5. Serving:
   • As soon as the kunafa comes out of the oven, pour the cold syrup over it.
   • Serve hot and garnished with chopped pistachios.

Golden Tips:

• You can make qishta at home using milk and starch.
• For perfectly golden kunafa, make sure to distribute the ghee evenly.
• Best served with Arabic coffee or tea for an authentic taste experience.

Syrian Kunafa is more than just a dessert – it is a piece of cultural heritage and a taste that carries the fragrance of the Levant.

Try the recipe and enjoy a moment of pure joy with every bite!