Egyptian Kunafa with Ashta
Cream
A classic Egyptian dessert featuring layers of crispy, shredded kunafa pastry filled with rich, creamy ashta (clotted cream) and drizzled with sweet syrup. A beloved treat, especially during Ramadan.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Kunafa dough (shredded phyllo)(Ensure the dough is thawed if frozen. It should be pliable but not sticky.)
- 500 g Ashta (Egyptian clotted cream)(Can be homemade or store-bought. If store-bought, ensure it's firm.)
- 200 g Ghee, melted(Clarified butter is ideal for a cleaner flavor and higher smoke point.)
- 400 ml Sugar syrup (Attar/Qatr)(Chilled. A simple syrup made from sugar and water, often flavored with rose water or orange blossom water.)
- 100 g Pistachios, chopped(For garnish. Lightly toasted for enhanced flavor.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Kunafa Dough: If using frozen kunafa dough, thaw it completely. Gently break apart the strands into smaller pieces. In a large bowl, pour the melted ghee over the kunafa dough. Use your hands to thoroughly mix and coat every strand of dough with ghee until it's evenly moistened. This ensures crispiness.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Assemble the Base Layer: Grease a round baking pan (approximately 25-30 cm or 10-12 inches in diameter) generously with some of the remaining ghee. Press half of the ghee-coated kunafa dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a firm, compact layer. Ensure there are no gaps.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Add the Cream Filling: Carefully spread the ashta evenly over the base layer of kunafa. Ensure the cream reaches close to the edges but doesn't spill over. Avoid pressing down too hard on the cream.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Top and Bake: Gently spread the remaining ghee-coated kunafa dough over the ashta layer, covering it completely. Lightly press down to seal the edges. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes, or until the kunafa is a deep golden brown and crispy on the edges and top. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.
⏱️ 30-35 minutes - 5
Syrup and Garnish: Once the kunafa is baked to a golden crisp, immediately remove it from the oven. While the kunafa is still hot, pour the chilled sugar syrup evenly over the entire surface. The contrast between hot kunafa and cold syrup creates the perfect texture. Let it sit for a few minutes for the syrup to absorb.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Serve: Garnish generously with the chopped pistachios. Allow the kunafa to cool slightly for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set.
⏱️ 10 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to perfect kunafa is the contrast between hot, freshly baked pastry and cold syrup. This prevents the pastry from becoming soggy.
- ✓Ensure the kunafa is baked until deeply golden brown and crispy for the best texture and flavor.
- ✓This dessert is a traditional centerpiece for Iftar during Ramadan, offering a sweet and satisfying end to the fast.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a cheesy kunafa, use a mixture of unsalted mozzarella and akkawi cheese (rinsed and drained) instead of or in addition to the ashta.
- Add a layer of fresh mango slices or mango puree over the ashta before topping with the second layer of kunafa for a fruity twist.