Custard Kunafa Dessert Recipe in 30 Minutes NoBake - No Gelatine

Custard Kunafa Dessert Recipe in 30 Minutes NoBake - No Gelatine

Kunafa is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert, traditionally made with shredded phyllo dough, butter, and syrup. Adding custard to this sweet treat offers a rich, creamy variation that elevates the flavor profile and texture. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make kunafa with custard, sure to impress your family and guests alike.

1. Introduction to Kunafa with Custard 

Kunafa is a classic dessert enjoyed across the Middle East, often served during special occasions like Ramadan or weddings. This version incorporates a creamy custard filling, creating a delightful contrast between the crunchy, golden top and the smooth, sweet filling. The combination of crispy layers of dough and velvety custard makes this dessert irresistible.

2. Ingredients You’ll Need 

To prepare kunafa with custard, you’ll need a few essential ingredients: 

• 500 grams of kunafa dough (shredded phyllo dough or kataifi dough) 

• 100 grams of unsalted butter, melted 

• 1 cup of milk 

• ½ cup of sugar 

• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch 

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 

• 1 cup of heavy cream 

• 1 tablespoon of rose water (optional, for extra fragrance) 

• ½ cup of chopped pistachios (for garnish, optional) 

• Simple syrup (for soaking)

3. Preparing the Custard 

Start by making the custard filling. In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it thickens into a smooth custard. Once the mixture reaches a thick but pourable consistency, remove from heat and fold in the heavy cream for added richness. Set the custard aside to cool while you prepare the kunafa dough.

4. Preparing the Kunafa Dough 

Next, take the kunafa dough and gently shred it into small pieces if it’s not already in small strands. In a large bowl, combine the shredded dough with the melted butter, mixing thoroughly so that the butter coats every strand. The butter helps the dough crisp up beautifully when baked, ensuring that the final result has the perfect balance of crunch and softness. 

5. Assembling the Kunafa 

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a round baking pan, spread half of the prepared kunafa dough mixture to form an even layer at the bottom. Press it down gently to compact the dough. Then, pour the cooled custard over the dough, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Once the custard is evenly distributed, top it with the remaining kunafa dough, again pressing it down lightly to create an even, flat surface.

6. Baking the Kunafa 

Bake the kunafa in the preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes, or until the top layer of dough turns golden brown and crispy. The edges should be slightly caramelized and the custard should be set. While the kunafa is baking, you can prepare your simple syrup by heating equal parts sugar and water until the sugar dissolves, then adding a splash of rose water for fragrance. 

7. Serving and Garnishing 

Once the kunafa is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm simple syrup evenly over the hot kunafa, allowing it to soak in and sweeten the dough. Let the kunafa sit for a few minutes to absorb the syrup. Before serving, garnish with chopped pistachios or shredded coconut for a colorful and crunchy finish. Slice into squares or wedges and enjoy the perfect balance of crispiness and creaminess in every bite! 

Kunafa with custard is a luxurious treat that brings together the best of both worlds: the crunch of the dough and the smoothness of the custard. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!