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Turkish Cuisine Desserts

Hatay Usulü Peynirli Künefe – Hatay-Style Cheese Künefe (Kunafa) Recipe

Hatay-style künefe, the pearl of Hatay: buttery kadayif and stretchy künefe cheese, finished with cold syrup.

Prep 15 minCook 20 minTotal 35 minServings 2Difficulty Medium

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Last editorial review: 16.08.2026
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Step by step

Preparation steps

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Make the syrup

Make the syrup first: bring the water and granulated sugar to the boil, add the lemon juice just before taking it off the heat and leave it to cool.

Chef's tip: The syrup should be cold and the künefe hot.

Prepare the kadayif

Pull the kadayif apart into fine strands with your hands and toss it thoroughly with the melted butter.

Press the bottom layer

Grease the künefe pan. Spread half of the kadayif evenly in the pan and press it down firmly with your hand or a plate.

Chef's tip: Pressing it down well keeps the künefe from falling apart.

Add cheese and top layer

Scatter the grated or sliced künefe cheese on top, keeping it away from the very edges. Spread the remaining kadayif over the cheese and press down firmly again.

Cook, flip and pour syrup

Cook on the hob over low heat until the underside is golden, then turn it over with the help of a plate and brown the other side. While it is hot, pour the cold syrup over it and serve.

Time's up! Enjoy your meal.

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Editorial and media review in progress

Last check: 16.08.2026

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