Konafa (Egyptian Shredded Pastry Dessert) Recipe

Konafa is one of Egypt’s most famous desserts, made from thin, crispy strands of pastry soaked in sweet syrup and often layered with nuts, cream, or cheese. This golden, crunchy treat is a highlight of special occasions like Ramadan and family celebrations. Loved for its irresistible combination of textures and flavors, Konafa offers the perfect balance between sweetness and crunch. Whether prepared in its traditional form or with modern twists, this dessert is a true indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Konafa Base:

• 500g konafa (shredded phyllo pastry)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling (Choose One Option):

For the Cream Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Nut Filling:

• 1 cup mixed nuts (pistachios, walnuts, almonds), finely chopped
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (for extra stretchiness)

For the Syrup (Ater):

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Syrup

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil.
3. Add lemon juice and let it simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and add rose water (if using).
5. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

For the Cream Filling:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in a few tablespoons of cold milk.
3. Add the cornstarch mixture to the milk while stirring continuously.
4. Add sugar and vanilla extract and continue stirring until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool.

For the Nut Filling:

1. In a bowl, mix the chopped nuts, sugar, and cinnamon.

For the Cheese Filling:

1. Mix ricotta cheese and mozzarella together in a bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Konafa Base

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Using your hands, break apart the shredded konafa pastry into small strands.
3. Pour the melted butter over the konafa and mix well to coat all the strands.

Step 4: Assemble the Konafa

1. Grease a round baking dish with butter.
2. Press half of the buttered konafa into the bottom of the dish.
3. Add the desired filling (cream, nuts, or cheese) evenly over the layer.
4. Cover with the remaining konafa, pressing it gently.

Step 5: Bake the Konafa

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Add the Syrup

1. Once out of the oven, immediately pour the cooled syrup over the hot konafa.
2. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the syrup.

Step 7: Serve the Konafa

1. Cut into squares or wedges and serve warm.
2. Garnish with crushed pistachios or a drizzle of extra syrup if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Egyptian Konafa! 🍯🥮😋