If you’re craving a creamy, crunchy, and indulgently sweet dessert with a modern presentation, this Kunafa Cream Dessert in a Jar is the perfect recipe to try. It takes the rich, buttery crispness of traditional kunafa and layers it with velvety cream, fragrant rose or orange blossom water, and a touch of pistachio — all beautifully portioned in individual jars.
This no-bake, no-fuss version of kunafa is ideal for parties, Ramadan iftar spreads, Eid desserts, or elegant dinners. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly and easy to serve without slicing or plating.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- Classic kunafa flavor, modern format
- Easy to assemble and serve — perfect for guests
- Creamy & crunchy texture in every bite
- No oven required if using pre-toasted kunafa
- Customizable layers and flavors (mango, Nutella, coffee, etc.)
What Is Kunafa?
Kunafa (or kanafeh, knafeh, etc.) is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with shredded phyllo dough (kataifi), soaked in syrup, and typically layered with cream (ashta), cheese, or nuts. This jar version deconstructs the original into stylish individual servings layered with cream filling and buttery crisp kunafa pastry.
Ingredients
For the Kunafa Crust:
- 200g shredded kataifi pastry (kunafa dough), thawed if frozen
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon rosewater or orange blossom water (optional)
For the Cream Filling:
- 1½ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream or whipped topping
- ½ teaspoon rosewater or orange blossom water (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For the Sugar Syrup (Ater):
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon rosewater or orange blossom water (optional)
Toppings:
- Chopped pistachios
- Crushed rose petals (optional)
- Fresh fruits (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Small glass jars or dessert cups
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Frying pan or baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Kunafa Crust
Using your hands or scissors, shred the kunafa dough into small pieces. In a large bowl, mix the dough with melted butter and sugar until evenly coated.
To toast:
- Stovetop method: Toast in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden and crispy (7–10 minutes).
- Oven method: Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes, stirring every 5–6 minutes.
Add rose or orange blossom water (optional) at the end. Let it cool and crisp up.
2. Make the Cream Filling
In a saucepan, whisk together milk, cornstarch, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thick and pudding-like (5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat. Stir in rosewater or orange blossom water. Let it cool slightly, then fold in whipped cream or heavy cream for a lighter texture. Chill until ready to assemble.
3. Make the Simple Syrup (Ater)
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Add lemon juice and rosewater at the end. Cool to room temperature.
4. Assemble the Dessert Jars
In clean jars, layer the components as follows:
- Bottom layer: Toasted kunafa
- Middle layer: Cream filling
- Top layer: More kunafa
- Drizzle: A spoonful of sugar syrup
- Garnish: Chopped pistachios, rose petals, or fresh berries
Repeat for multiple layers if your jar is taller.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the jars for at least 2–3 hours before serving. Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
Variations
- Nutella Kunafa Jars: Add a layer of Nutella between cream and kunafa.
- Mango Kunafa Jars: Add a layer of mango puree or chopped mangoes.
- Lotus Biscoff: Use crushed Biscoff cookies in the cream layer or on top.
- Cheesecake-style: Add cream cheese to the filling for a thicker texture.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, tightly covered.
- Crunch tip: Add the final top layer of kunafa just before serving to keep it crisp.
- Make ahead: Toast kunafa and prepare cream in advance. Assemble before serving.
FAQs
Can I use phyllo dough instead of kataifi?
No, regular phyllo sheets are not suitable. Kataifi (shredded phyllo) is essential for the crispy kunafa texture.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based milk, coconut cream, and vegan butter. Substitute sugar syrup with maple syrup if desired.
Is the syrup necessary?
It adds authentic sweetness and flavor but can be reduced or omitted for a lighter dessert.
Final Thoughts
These Kunafa Cream Desserts in a Jar are a brilliant way to enjoy the classic flavors of kunafa in a fun, elegant, and modern format. The contrast between the crisp pastry and creamy filling, all accented with floral notes and pistachio crunch, makes this dessert a true showstopper.
Make it for Eid, dinner parties, or any time you want to impress — one delightful jar at a time.
