
Rich Lebanese Knafeh with Creamy Ashta Filling
A decadent Middle Eastern dessert perfect for special occasions
This Lebanese Knafeh is a luscious, cheese-filled pastry topped with a crispy kataifi dough and infused with a fragrant syrup, featuring a rich creamy ashta filling.
- 1 h 45 min
- 8
- Intermediate
Ingredients
For the Knafeh Base
For the Ashta Filling
For the Cheese Layer
For the Sugar Syrup
Preparation
Preparing the Knafeh Base
Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Loosen kataifi dough
Place the kataifi dough in a large bowl and gently pull apart to loosen.
Coat with butter
Pour the melted butter over the dough, mixing thoroughly to coat evenly.
Preparing the Ashta Filling
Combine ingredients
In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, cornflour, and sugar.
Cook mixture
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
Flavor and cool
Stir in rose water and orange blossom water, then set aside to cool.
Cooking Process
Assembling the Knafeh
Spread half of the buttered kataifi dough into a baking dish, pressing firmly.
Layering the Cheese
Spread grated akawi and mozzarella over the kataifi base.
Adding Ashta Filling
Spread cooled ashta over cheese, then top with remaining kataifi dough.
Plating & Serving

Rich Lebanese Knafeh with Creamy Ashta Filling
Rich Lebanese Knafeh with Creamy Ashta Filling
Serve Warm
Serve warm pieces of Knafeh drizzled with sugar syrup, ensuring each piece glistens with sweetness.
Sauce Pairings
Garnishes & Accompaniments
Perfect Sides
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