Delicious Kunafa with Cream
A rich, indulgent Middle Eastern dessert that combines crispy pastry with creamy goodness, drenched in sweet syrup.
Kunafa is an iconic Middle Eastern dessert that never fails to impress. With its delicate layers of flaky kunafa pastry filled with a creamy center and topped with sweet syrup, this treat is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving something sweet, this Kunafa with Cream recipe will bring the taste of the Middle East straight to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Kunafa with Cream
- Crispy and creamy: The combination of the flaky kunafa and the smooth, rich cream creates the perfect texture contrast.
- Irresistible sweetness: The syrup adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the cream filling.
- A beloved Middle Eastern treat: Perfect for special occasions or just a delicious indulgence!
Ingredients
(Makes about 8 servings)
- ½ kg kunafa (shredded phyllo dough)
- ½ cup melted ghee (clarified butter)
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Ready-made syrup (qatar, for drizzling)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cream Filling
In a medium pot over medium heat, dissolve the cornstarch in cold milk. Once fully dissolved, add the sugar and vanilla extract, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a custard-like consistency.
Remove the mixture from heat, and then stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture cool completely before using it in the recipe.
2. Prepare the Kunafa
Cut the kunafa into smaller pieces and mix it thoroughly with the melted ghee. This will give it a rich flavor and make it crisp up beautifully during baking.
3. Assemble the Kunafa
Grease a baking dish with a little bit of ghee. Place half of the kunafa mixture into the dish, gently pressing it down to create an even layer.
Next, spread the cream filling evenly over the kunafa layer. Then, top the cream with the remaining kunafa, pressing gently to secure it in place.
4. Bake the Kunafa
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the assembled kunafa for about 30–40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn.
5. Add the Syrup
Once the kunafa is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cold syrup (qatar) over the hot kunafa. The syrup will soak into the layers, adding a beautiful shine and sweetness to the dish.
Allow the kunafa to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Kunafa is best served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a cup of Moroccan mint tea or coffee for an authentic Middle Eastern experience. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the combination of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and syrupy sweetness in this Kunafa with Cream. This dessert is guaranteed to delight your taste buds with every bite. It’s a perfect way to end a meal or celebrate a special occasion!
Have you tried this delicious treat before? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! ✨
