Knafe – Middle Eastern Sweet Cheese Pastry

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400 F. Prepare a spring form pan by wrapping the outside of the bottom with foil to avoid spillage into your oven.

2. 2

   Shred the dough in a food processor using the blade attachment. This will take about 45 seconds. Add the lemon zest and whirl around another 5 seconds. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.

3. 3

   Add the cheese into the bowl of the food processor (fitted with the grater attachment) and whirl for a few seconds to chop it into small pieces. Set the shredded cheese aside.

4. 4

   In a small bowl combine the melted butter with the food coloring. Combine the colored butter with the dough making sure all of the strands are colored completely.

5. 5

   Spread half of the dough into the spring form pan. Spread the cheese on top (2nd layer). Spread remaining dough on top of the cheese (3rd layer).

6. 6

   Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until golden.

7. 7

   Meanwhile make the simple syrup. In a small saucepan combine the sugar and water. Heat on medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. It just needs to heat and dissolve the sugar-it does not need to boil. Remove from heat and add the lemon juice.

8. 8

   When the pastry is done remove it from the oven. Pour the syrup onto the hot dessert while syrup is still hot/warm. Let it soak in for about 10 minutes. Eat!

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.