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Künefe (Sweet Cheese Pastry)

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Künefe is a luscious Middle Eastern dessert that harmoniously blends crispy kadayıf dough with gooey mozzarella cheese, all enveloped in fragrant syrup and topped with crunchy pistachios. This indulgent sweet cheese pastry is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, delivering an unforgettable taste experience that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Ingredients

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  • 8 oz künefe dough (kadayıf)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 8 oz low-moisture mozzarella cheese (shredded)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water
  • 1/4 cup pistachios (finely chopped)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir until dissolved and boil for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Add rose or orange blossom water, then set aside to cool.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Mix half of the melted butter with the künefe dough until well coated. Spread half of this mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
  4. Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough, then top with the remaining buttered dough mixture, pressing down gently.
  5. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
  6. Pour the cooled syrup over the hot künefe immediately after taking it out of the oven. Let it soak for a minute before garnishing with chopped pistachios.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cakerecipesfromscratch.com/irresistible-kunefe-sweet-cheese-pastry-delight-recipe/