Kunafa Cheesecake

Short Description

Kunafa Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of Middle Eastern and Western desserts. It combines the buttery crunch of kunafa (shredded phyllo pastry) with the creamy smoothness of cheesecake, all finished with a fragrant sugar syrup and a sprinkle of pistachios. This elegant dessert is perfect for festive gatherings, holidays, or when you want to serve something truly special.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe blends tradition and modernity in the most delicious way. The crisp golden kunafa adds texture, while the cheesecake layer offers a creamy, melt-in-the-mouth contrast. Enhanced with rose water or orange blossom syrup, it delivers a subtle floral aroma that elevates the entire dessert. Its show-stopping appearance and indulgent taste make it a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Kunafa Base and Topping

• Kataifi (shredded phyllo dough)

• Unsalted butter, melted

• Granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

• Cream cheese, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• Heavy cream or sour cream

• Optional: Rose water or orange blossom water

For the Syrup and Garnish

• Sugar

• Water

• Optional: Rose water or orange blossom water

• Crushed pistachios

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Directions

1. Prepare the Syrup

   • In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, simmer until slightly thickened, and stir in rose water or orange blossom water. Let cool.

2. Make the Kunafa Crust

   • Toss shredded kataifi with melted butter and sugar.

   • Press half of the mixture into the bottom of a greased springform pan.

   • Bake until lightly golden.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

   • Beat cream cheese with sugar until smooth.

   • Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and cream.

   • Mix until silky.

4. Bake the Cheesecake

   • Pour filling over the baked kunafa crust.

   • Bake in a moderate oven until just set in the center.

   • Allow to cool completely, then chill for several hours or overnight.

5. Assemble the Topping

   • Toast the remaining kataifi with butter until golden and crisp.

   • Once the cheesecake has set, top with the toasted kunafa.

   • Drizzle syrup and garnish with pistachios before serving.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8–10 slices

• Prep Time: 1 hour

• Bake Time: 55–60 minutes

• Cooling & Chilling Time: 4–6 hours (or overnight)

• Total Time: 6–8 hours (including chilling)

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Variations

• Flavoring: Swap rose water for orange blossom water for a different floral note.

• Nut Options: Garnish with almonds, cashews, or walnuts instead of pistachios.

• Mini Cheesecakes: Use muffin tins to create individual servings.

• No-Bake Version: Use a chilled, no-bake cheesecake filling for a lighter option.

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Storage / Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

• Freezing: Cheesecake layer can be frozen (without kunafa topping) for up to 1 month.

• Serving: Best enjoyed chilled, with syrup drizzled just before serving to keep the kunafa crisp.

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FAQs

1. Can I use regular phyllo sheets instead of kataifi?

Regular phyllo sheets can be used, but kataifi provides the signature kunafa texture.

2. Do I need to bake the cheesecake in a water bath?

A water bath is recommended for even baking and to prevent cracks, but it is not strictly necessary.

3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a day ahead to allow the cheesecake to set properly. Add the kunafa topping just before serving.

4. How do I prevent the kunafa from becoming soggy?

Add syrup only when ready to serve, and avoid excessive syrup.

5. Can I make it without rose water or orange blossom water?

Yes, you can simply flavor with vanilla or lemon zest.

6. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you may cut down sugar in the syrup and filling to suit your taste.

7. What if I don’t have pistachios?

Almonds, cashews, or even hazelnuts can be used as garnishes.

8. How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?

At least 4 hours, but overnight chilling yields the best results.

9. Can I freeze the whole Kunafa Cheesecake?

You can freeze it, but the kunafa topping may lose its crunch when thawed.

10. Can I make a no-bake version?

Yes, you can use a no-bake cheesecake filling, but the crust and topping should still be baked for crispness.

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Conclusion

Kunafa Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that combines the best of two worlds—the creamy richness of cheesecake and the crisp, buttery sweetness of kunafa. Fragrant syrup and nutty pistachios complete this indulgent treat, making it a perfect centerpiece for festive occasions or dinner parties. Though it requires patience and preparation, the result is an unforgettable dessert that delights every bite.

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