Kanafeh (Middle Eastern Cheese and Phyllo Dessert) Recipe (2024)

For the Kanafeh:

• 8 ounces (225g) nabulsi, akkawi, or mozzarella cheese, roughly chopped or shredded

• 2/3 cup clotted cream, crème fraîche, or cream cheese (5 ounces; 140g)

• 1 pound (454g) shredded phyllo, thawed

• 1 1/2 cups ghee, melted (12 ounces; 340g)

For the Syrup:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (11.5 ounces; 325g)

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon rose water

• 1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water

• 3/4 cup chopped, toasted pistachios (3 ounces; 84g)

1. Getting Started: Set the oven rack to the lower-middle position and preheat to 400°F (204°C).

2. For the Kanafeh: In a medium bowl, combine the cheese and clotted cream and set aside. With a serrated knife, slice the shredded phyllo crosswise into 1/4- to 1/2-inch lengths and transfer to a large bowl. Pour the melted ghee over the phyllo and, using your hands, toss and mix the phyllo with the ghee in a gentle rubbing motion to ensure that all the phyllo shreds are evenly coated, about 5 minutes.

3. Transfer half the coated phyllo to a 10-inch cast iron skillet, evenly distributing it along the bottom of the pan. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to firmly pack the phyllo, creating an even crust. Top this with the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly over the first phyllo layer and leaving a 1/2-inch border along the rim. Spread the remaining phyllo over the cheese and once again firmly pack it down. Bake in the preheated oven until deeply golden brown, about 40 minutes.

4. For the Syrup: Prepare the syrup while the kanafeh bakes. In a medium sauce pot, add the sugar, lemon juice, and 1 cup of water. Simmer until the syrup reaches 234°F (112°C), or when a small amount dropped into ice water forms a soft ball. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. When the kanafeh is ready, finish the syrup by adding the rose and orange blossom waters.

5. To Serve: After removing the kanafeh from the oven, immediately drizzle on about 1/3 of the syrup. Invert the pie onto a serving platter and drizzle with the remaining syrup. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and serve right away.

Special Equipment

Bread knife, offset spatula, 10-inch cast iron skillet, rimmed baking sheet

Notes

The brined nabulsi and akkawi cheeses need to be soaked in water overnight to remove excess salt. Alternatively, you can gently simmer the cheese in water (and changing the water if it becomes too cloudy) for about 15 minutes.

This Recipe Appears In

• Kanafeh Is the Crispy, Gooey, Nutty, Syrupy Dessert for Cheese Lovers