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How to make a popular Arab dessert Kunafa

HOUSTON – Known for its flaky texture and gooey, stretchy cheese soaked in sweet sugar syrup, kunafa is a popular dessert in the Arab world. Whether it’s spelled or pronounced differently across regions, one thing remains the same—it’s a beloved treat in the community.

There are two main types of kunafa:

  • Na’ama – a soft, smooth version made with fine semolina dough that melts in your mouth
  • Kishneh (Kishna) – made with shredded phyllo dough for a crisp, crunchy texture
Golden Roastery Kunafa (Copyright 2026 by KPRC Click2Houston - All rights reserved.)

If you’re getting hungry, don’t worry. Brothers from the popular Middle Eastern shop Golden Roastery share their signature kunafa recipe that you can recreate at home with your family.

Before you scroll below for the recipe or watch the video above featuring a signature kunafa flip, Golden Roastery is offering Houston Life viewers a special walk-in-only deal.

From now until May 10, customers can receive 20% off kunafa orders when they mention “HL20” at checkout, in-store only.

Locations

  • 3111 Fondren Rd, Houston, TX 77063
  • 5199 FM 1960 W, Houston, TX 77069

Kunafa Recipe

(Small Tray – 12-inch pan)

  • 1 lb sweet cheese
  • 500g ghee (butter)
  • 2 lbs kataifi dough
  • 1/4 cup crushed pistachios
  • 1 cup sugar syrup

Directions

  1. Spread ghee evenly inside the pan
  2. Lay out and press the kataifi dough
  3. Spread sweet cheese evenly over the dough
  4. Bake until golden brown
  5. Flip onto serving tray
  6. Sprinkle crushed pistachios
  7. Pour sugar syrup on top
  8. Serve and enjoy

Even though the discount is limited to kunafa, you can still explore more desserts by visiting goldenroastery.store.