Nutella Kunafa with chocolate, hazelnuts, syrup, and delicious buttercream is a luxurious dessert that combines the golden crispiness of kunafa with the rich taste of chocolate and hazelnuts. This makes it an ideal choice for lovers of Eastern sweets with a Western touch.

This recipe contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and magnesium from hazelnuts, calcium from butter, and antioxidants found in dark chocolate. While it provides energy and enhances mood, excessive consumption may lead to weight gain and increased blood sugar levels due to its syrup and added sugar content. Therefore, it is best enjoyed in moderation to savor its delicious flavor without compromising health.

Ingredients:

1- Kunafa Ingredients:

• Kunafa strands: 500 grams (fresh or thawed if frozen)
• Melted butter (or Arabic ghee): ¾ cup
• Powdered sugar: ¼ cup (for a light crunch)

2- Filling Ingredients:

• Nutella chocolate spread: 1 cup
• Liquid whipping cream: ¼ cup (for a creamy texture)
• Crushed hazelnuts: ¼ cup (optional)

3- Syrup Ingredients:

• Sugar: 1 cup
• Water: ½ cup
• Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon (from half a small lemon)
• Rose water: ½ teaspoon (optional)

4- Topping Ingredients:

• Melted Nutella: ¼ cup (for drizzling)
• Crushed hazelnuts: 2 tablespoons
• Grated chocolate or chocolate chips: 2 tablespoons

Healthy Ingredient Substitutes:

• Butter → Coconut oil or olive oil
• Powdered sugar → Natural honey or stevia sugar
• Nutella → Unsweetened almond or hazelnut butter
• Whipping cream → Coconut cream or low-fat plant-based cream
• Syrup → Diluted honey or maple syrup
• Milk chocolate → Dark chocolate
• Adding oats to kunafa for a healthier twist

Preparation Method

1- Preparing the Kunafa (10 minutes)

• Cut the kunafa into small pieces using scissors or by hand for a uniform texture.
• Place the kunafa in a large bowl, then add the melted butter and rub well until fully absorbed.
• Add the powdered sugar and mix well to distribute it evenly.

2- Preparing the Syrup (10 minutes)

• In a saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
• Once it starts boiling, add the lemon juice and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the syrup thickens.
• Add rose water (optional), stir, then remove from heat and let it cool.

3- Preparing the Filling (5 minutes)

• In a bowl, whip the whipping cream until slightly thick.
• Gently mix in the Nutella until a creamy consistency is achieved.
• Add the crushed hazelnuts (optional) and stir gently.

4- Assembling the Kunafa in the Pan (10 minutes)

• In a buttered baking pan, spread half of the kunafa and press gently to form a firm layer.
• Evenly spread the filling over the layer, leaving a small margin at the edges.
• Add the remaining kunafa on top of the filling and press gently to hold the layers together.

5- Baking the Kunafa (30 minutes)

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) for 10 minutes.
• Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
• For extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes if needed.

6- Adding the Syrup (5 minutes)

• Gradually pour the cooled syrup over the hot kunafa, allowing it to absorb completely.
• Let the kunafa rest for 10 minutes before serving.

7- Decoration (5 minutes)

• Drizzle melted Nutella over the top.
• Garnish with crushed hazelnuts and chocolate chips.

8- Serving (5 minutes)

• Cut the kunafa into equal portions.
• Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Enjoy the rich and delicious taste of Nutella Kunafa!

Total Time Breakdown:

• Preparing the Kunafa: 10 minutes
• Preparing the Syrup: 10 minutes
• Preparing the Filling: 5 minutes
• Assembling the Kunafa: 10 minutes
• Baking the Kunafa: 25-30 minutes
• Adding the Syrup & Decoration: 5 minutes
• Serving: 5 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 70 minutes

Tips for a Successful Nutella Kunafa Recipe & Avoiding Mistakes for Beginners

1. Cutting the Kunafa Properly

Use kitchen scissors to finely cut the kunafa for even butter distribution.

2. Coating the Kunafa with Butter

Ensure every strand is coated with butter for a golden, crispy texture.

3. Using Cold Syrup

The syrup should be cold while the kunafa is hot to prevent it from becoming soggy.

4. Controlling Oven Temperature

Bake at 180°C (356°F) for the perfect crispiness without burning.

5. Choosing the Right Pan

Use a well-buttered round pan to prevent sticking.

6. Balancing the Filling

Leave a small margin at the edges to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

7. Watching the Broiler

Monitor the kunafa carefully when using the broiler to avoid burning.

Best Side Dishes with Nutella Kunafa

☕ Hot Drinks: Arabic coffee, mint tea, cappuccino.
🥤 Cold Drinks: Orange juice, chocolate milkshake.
🍓 Light Desserts: Fresh fruits, vanilla ice cream.

Dietary Considerations

✅ For Vegans: Substitute butter with plant-based oils and use fillings like peanut or almond butter.

✅ For Diabetics: Avoid sugar and use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol.

✅ For Low-Carb Diets: Use low-carb nut butter and dark chocolate.

✅ For Children: Serve in moderate portions and avoid excessive sugar or chocolate for those with allergies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Cut and Toast Kunafa Perfectly?

• Use kitchen scissors to cut the kunafa into small pieces.
• For crispiness, mix the kunafa well with melted butter and bake at 180°C (356°F).

How to Prepare the Syrup Correctly?

• Boil sugar and water with lemon juice for 5 minutes.
• Add rose water, then let it cool completely before use.
• Always pour cold syrup over hot kunafa for perfect absorption.

How to Make This Recipe Suitable for Diabetics?

• Use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol.
• Replace Nutella with unsweetened nut butter.

How to Serve Nutella Kunafa?

Serve warm, garnished with crushed hazelnuts and grated dark chocolate.

How Long Can Kunafa Be Stored?

• Best enjoyed on the same day of preparation.
• Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated before serving.