Egyptian Kunafa

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KUNAFA

Yield 16

Prep time

15 Min

Cook time

15 Min

Inactive time

2 Hour

Bake Time

20 Min

Total time

2 H & 50 M

This Egyptian style kunafa (also spelled kunafeh) is crispy, golden, and layered with a rich nut filling instead of cheese. It is made with shredded kunafa dough tossed in clarified butter, baked until perfectly crisp, then soaked in a warm, citrus-kissed simple syrup. The center is packed with walnuts, golden raisins, and a touch of cinnamon for just the right balance of sweetness and texture.

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Ingredients

For the Simple Syrup:

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups sugar
• juice of ½ lemon
• vanillin powder

For the Nut Filling:

• 2 cups walnuts
• 1 cu golden raisins
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Kunafa Dough:

• 16 ounces shredded phyllo dough
• 8 tablespoons clarified butter
• ½ cup sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Simple Syrup:

1. Combine 2 cups water and 2 cups sugar in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring the mixture to a low simmer, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Squeeze in the juice of ½ lemon and continue simmering until the syrup reduces slightly and thickens.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in ¼ teaspoon vanillin powder.
5. Allow the syrup to cool completely to room temperature.

Make the Nut Filling:

1. Combine 2 cups finely crushed walnuts, 1 cup golden raisins, ¼ cup sugar, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon in a mixing bowl.
2. Stir the ingredients together until evenly distributed.
3. Set the filling aside until ready to assemble the kunafa.

Prepare the Kunafa Dough:

1. Tear 16 ounces shredded phyllo dough (kunafa dough) into smaller pieces and place it in a large bowl.
2. Pour 8 tablespoons melted clarified butter over the dough.
3. Add ½ cup sugar and mix thoroughly.
4. Massage the mixture with your hands until the butter and sugar are evenly incorporated throughout the dough.

Assemble the Kunafa and Bake:

1. Press half of the kunafa dough mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking pan to create an even base layer.
2. Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough.
3. Cover the filling with the remaining kunafa dough mixture.
4. Press the top layer gently to create a smooth, even surface.
5. Bake the kunafa at 400°F for at least 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.

Finish and Serve:

1. Remove the kunafa from the oven.
2. Pour the cooled simple syrup evenly over the hot kunafa immediately after baking.
3. Cover the pan with foil and allow the kunafa to cool for a few hours.
4. Cut into portions and enjoy.

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