How to Make the Perfect Simple Kunafa Cups
Middle Eastern · Easy · 40 min · 6 servings
These simple kunafa cups are a kid friendly recipe that recreates the beloved Middle Eastern dessert in adorable individual portions. Kids go crazy for the crispy buttery pastry filled with gooey sweet cheese and soaked in fragrant syrup.
Why this recipe works
This Simple Kunafa Cups recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 9g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 8 oz shredded phyllo dough kataifi thawed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup ricotta cheese
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 0.25 cup water
- 1 tsp rose water optional
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Simple Syrup
Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves then simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in rose water if using. Cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
Toss shredded phyllo dough with melted butter until every strand is coated. Press into the bottom and sides of a greased muffin tin to form cups.
Step 3: Fill and Bake
Mix mozzarella and ricotta together and spoon into the center of each pastry cup. Bake at 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is deep golden brown.
Step 4: Soak and Serve
Immediately spoon cooled syrup over hot kunafa cups as they come out of the oven. Let sit 5 minutes then carefully remove from pan and serve warm.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- shredded phyllo dough → crushed vermicelli noodles tossed in butter as a similar crunchy base
- rose water → a few drops of vanilla extract for a kid-friendly floral-free flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Pouring hot syrup on cold pastry or cold syrup on hot pastry which prevents proper absorption
- Not pressing the pastry firmly enough into the muffin cups causing the sides to collapse when filling is added
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 9g protein, 48g carbs, 18g fat, 1g fiber.
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