Authentic Palestinian Knafeh Recipe: A Sweet Tradition

Introduction to Palestinian Knafeh

Palestinian Knafeh is one of the most cherished desserts in Middle Eastern cuisine. Known for its golden, crispy top layer, gooey cheese center, and fragrant sugar syrup, this dessert holds a special place in celebrations, family gatherings, and cultural events.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through an authentic Palestinian Knafeh Recipe, complete with easy steps, essential tips, and everything you need to recreate this delicious treat in your own kitchen.
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Ingredients for this Palestinian Knafeh Recipe

Ingredient	Quantity
Kataifi Pastry (shredded phyllo dough)	500g
Unsalted Butter (melted)	1 cup
Nabulsi Cheese (or Mozzarella)	400g
Ricotta Cheese	200g
Granulated Sugar	1 cup
Water	1 cup
Lemon Juice	1 tsp
Rosewater	1 tbsp
Orange Blossom Water	1 tbsp
Crushed Pistachios	1/4 cup

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Preparation and Cook Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

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Instructions for Palestinian Knafeh Recipe

Following instructions step by Step is mandatory in this Palestinian Knafeh Recipe.

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in 1 tablespoon rosewater and 1 tablespoon orange blossom water, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. If using Nabulsi cheese, soak it in water for 1 hour to reduce its saltiness.
2. Drain and shred the cheese.
3. In a bowl, mix the shredded Nabulsi cheese (or mozzarella) with 200g ricotta cheese for a creamy texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Kataifi Dough

1. Chop 500g kataifi pastry into smaller pieces for easier handling.
2. Pour 1 cup melted unsalted butter over the shredded dough.
3. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even coating of butter.

Step 4: Assemble the Knafeh

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a baking dish with melted butter.
3. Spread half of the kataifi dough evenly at the base of the dish, pressing it down lightly.
4. Evenly distribute the cheese mixture over the kataifi layer.
5. Cover with the remaining kataifi dough, gently pressing it down to secure the layers.

Step 5: Bake the Knafeh

1. Place the assembled knafeh in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove from the oven and immediately pour the cooled sugar syrup evenly over the hot knafeh.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle 1/4 cup crushed pistachios on top for an authentic touch.
2. Let the knafeh rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
3. Serve warm and enjoy its crispy, cheesy, and syrupy goodness!

Enjoy this delicious Palestinian Knafeh Recipe with friends and family!

Here are variations of knafeh you should try:
Authentic Lebanese Knafeh Recipe
Authentic Turkish Knafeh Recipe: Künefe Recipe

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What is Palestinian Knafeh?

Knafeh (or Kunafa) is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with layers of shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), filled with stretchy cheese or creamy custard, and soaked in aromatic sugar syrup. The Palestinian version is typically prepared using Nabulsi cheese, which gives it a distinct salty yet sweet flavor profile.

This dessert is not just food—it’s a cultural symbol of hospitality, warmth, and togetherness.

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Why You’ll Love This Palestinian Knafeh Recipe

• Authentic Flavor
  • The use of Nabulsi cheese and floral sugar syrup creates an unmatched taste.
• Perfect for Celebrations
  • Ideal for Ramadan, Eid, weddings, or any festive gathering.
• Simple Yet Elegant
  • While it looks intricate, the recipe is surprisingly simple with our step-by-step guide.
• Gooey and Crispy Texture
  • The balance between the crispy kataifi layer and the gooey cheese center is divine.
• Make it Your Own
  • Add nuts, cream, or extra syrup to suit your preferences.

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Tips for Perfect Palestinian Knafeh

• Use fresh kataifi dough for the best texture.
• Don’t over-soak with syrup; it should be moist, not soggy.
• Serve warm to enjoy the stretchy cheese filling.
• Adjust sweetness by controlling the syrup quantity.

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Variations of Palestinian Knafeh

• Cream-Filled Knafeh
  • Swap the cheese layer with creamy Ashta for a softer version.
• Chocolate Knafeh
  • Add layers of chocolate for a rich twist.
• Nutty Knafeh
  • Mix chopped nuts into the cheese layer for added crunch.

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What to Serve with Palestinian Knafeh

• Strong Arabic Coffee: Balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Mint Tea: Refreshing and aromatic.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy contrast to the warm Knafeh.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in this Palestinian Knafeh Recipe

• Using overly salty cheese without soaking it.
• Pouring syrup over a cold Knafeh.
• Overcooking, which dries out the dessert.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven to preserve the crispy texture

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Health Benefits (In Moderation)

• Cheese provides calcium and protein.
• Kataifi dough offers energy-rich carbohydrates.
• Pistachios are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants.

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Conclusion

Palestinian Knafeh is not just a dessert; it’s a cultural symbol filled with history, flavor, and warmth. With its crispy golden crust, gooey cheese filling, and fragrant syrup, every bite is pure indulgence. Whether you’re preparing it for a special celebration or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this Palestinian Knafeh Recipe will surely impress.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this iconic dessert!

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FAQs for Palestinian Knafeh Recipe

I Hope you Enjoyed this Palestinian Knafeh Recipe.

References

palestiniandish.com