Top 9 kunafa variations in Middle East in 2025
-
Hassan Rahim
- . September 12, 2025
- . Update: September 12, 2025 8:54 pm
Time to embark on a beautiful journey. Let’s take a look at the top 9 kunafa variations in the Middle East. But before that, let’s understand this delicious dessert and its importance. Imagine buttery threads of shredded phyllo or fine semolina cake embracing indulgent fillings.
The fragrant syrup is another incredible thing to enjoy. The exact origin of kunafa is still being debated. By in 2025, this dessert is immensely popular in different parts of the globe, let alone in the Middle East. Take a look at some of the most indulgent kunafa variations.
Top 9 kunafa variations in Middle East
1. Knafeh Nabulsiyeh (Nablus, Palestine)
This is the classic cheese knafeh. The signature kunafa from Nablus in Palestine features shredded kataifi on top and bottom and a layer of Nabulsi cheese in the middle. It is drenched in sugar syrup after baking and crushed pistachios are sprinkled on top.
2. Na’ameh
Think buttery and delicate. Na’ameh is a soft and fine-pulled kunafa – adored in different parts of the globe for the texture and taste. You are going to find a fine, soft shredded pastry. It is immensely popular in Lebanon and parts of Syria.
3. Knafeh bil-Ashta
Full of ashta (a thick clotted cream), Knafeh bil-Ashta is quite common in Lebanon. It is a gentler, more dessert-pudding experience. It is not full of cheese. The texture is creamy. You are going to find a floral scent on some occasions.
4. Antakya Kunefe
This is the Turkish take on kunafa. Antakya Kunefe often features local Hatay cheese, a stretchy and mozzarella-like cheese. It is quite similar to the Levantine cheese kunafa but is often presented piping hot. You could find a lemon-scented syrup too.
5. Gazan Knafeh
This is from Gaza. You can find different versions of Gazan Knafeh. Some use spice blends and incorporate less or no cheese. Gazan Knafeh is generally more spiced and nutty than the plain cheese models. Knafeh traditions can be quite different inside Gaza itself.
6. Khishnah
Looking for maximum crisp? Look no further than Khishnah or Khishneh. This particular version of kunafa uses coarser and longer strands of shredded dough. The kadaif is roasted or fried until super crisp, adding to the maximum crispiness characteristic.
7. Kunafa rolls and fingers
Try out rolled or finger-shaped kunafa in 2025. This version is often full of cheese, cream or a nut paste, fried or baked into separate potions. You are going to find a delicious syrup drizzled on top. This snackable item is handy, crunchy outside and soft inside.
8. Chocolate/modern fusion kunafa
In some parts of the Middle East, chocolate kunafa is immensely famous. These are contemporary reinterpretations of kunafa that add chocolate, Nutella or other global tastes to the classic pastry.
9. Semolina/Basbousa-style kunafa
This is a cake hybrid. Some local recipes in the Middle East blend kunafa technique and semolina cake (basbousa) methods to produce immensely delicious and denser cake-like kunafa. This item is baked instead of being built from shredded kataifi.
Isn’t it incredible? Hope this list of the best 9 variations of kunafa in the Middle East makes your culinary journey across the region easier and more approachable. This region is quite famous for its delicacies and you must check them out.
