Description
A dessert that is both crispy and gooey, the Knafeh Chocolate Bar reinvents tradition with a rich, chocolatey twist. Combining buttery kataifi dough with smooth, velvety chocolate ganache, this Middle Eastern fusion dessert is perfect for special occasions or a comforting sweet treat.
Ingredients
For the Knafeh Base:
- 200g kataifi (shredded phyllo dough)
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Chocolate Filling:
- 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Syrup:
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp orange blossom water (optional)
For Garnishing:
- ¼ cup crushed pistachios or almonds
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2️⃣ Prepare the kataifi base: Gently pull apart the kataifi dough, mix it with melted butter and sugar, and toss until well coated.
3️⃣ Press half of the kataifi into the baking pan to form an even base.
4️⃣ Make the chocolate filling: Heat the heavy cream until warm (but not boiling), then add the chopped chocolate and stir until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract.
5️⃣ Pour the chocolate ganache over the kataifi base.
6️⃣ Cover with the remaining kataifi, pressing gently to create a compact top layer.
7️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
8️⃣ Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, bring sugar, water, and honey to a boil. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in orange blossom water.
9️⃣ Drizzle the warm syrup over the baked knafeh, allowing it to absorb for 5 minutes.
🔟 Garnish with crushed pistachios and a drizzle of melted chocolate, then slice into bars and serve.
Notes
✔️ Use high-quality dark chocolate (70% or higher) for a deep, rich flavor.
✔️ If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the syrup quantity slightly.
✔️ This dessert can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
✔️ Variations: Add a layer of hazelnut spread or praline for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Category: dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Knafeh chocolate bars, Middle Eastern dessert, crispy chocolate pastry, kataifi chocolate, fusion dessert