Künefe

Ingredients:

• 1 package of shredded kadayıf dough (approximately 500 grams)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 250 grams of unsalted cheese (such as mozzarella or akkawi), shredded
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon rose or orange blossom water (optional)
• Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round baking dish or skillet with butter.

2. Place the shredded kadayıf dough in a large bowl and separate the strands gently with your fingers.

3. Pour the melted butter over the kadayıf dough and toss until evenly coated.

4. Press half of the kadayıf dough mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish, forming an even layer.

5. Spread the shredded cheese evenly over the layer of kadayıf dough in the baking dish.

6. Cover the cheese with the remaining half of the kadayıf dough mixture, pressing it down gently to form another even layer.

7. Bake the künefe in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

8. While the künefe is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and rose or orange blossom water (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. Allow the syrup to simmer for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

9. Once the künefe is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot künefe, allowing it to soak in.

10. Let the künefe cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges or squares.

11. Serve the künefe warm, garnished with chopped pistachios or almonds if desired.

12. Enjoy your homemade künefe!