Matcha Kunafa

Matcha Kunafa brings a fresh twist to the viral dessert trend, combining golden, crispy kunafa with a smooth, creamy matcha filling. Made with Matcha powder, this easy dessert delivers the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, sweetness, and earthy matcha flavor.

📌What Is Matcha Kunafa?

Matcha kunafa is a modern fusion dessert inspired by traditional Middle Eastern kunafa (knafeh) and the global love for Japanese matcha. The word kunafa refers to a dessert made with thin, shredded kataifi pastry, typically layered with a creamy or cheesy filling and finished with sweet syrup and pistachios.

While classic kunafa is commonly prepared with a cheese or cream-based filling, this version adds Japanese matcha powder for a smooth green color and distinctive earthy flavor.

Think of it as crispy golden kunafa meets creamy Japanese matcha - a delicious East-meets-Middle-East dessert that's made for anyone who loves trying trending matcha desserts.

📌Ingredients

📌For the Kunafa Base

🍃250 g kunafa (kataifi) dough, shredded

🍃100 g unsalted butter, melted

🍃3 tbsp sugar

📌For the Matcha Cream Filling

🍃2 cups full-fat milk

🍃1/2 cup fresh cream

🍃1/3 cup sugar

🍃3 tbsp cornflour

🍃3 g Everyday Matcha Powder

📌For the Matcha Syrup

🍃1/2 cup sugar

🍃1/2 cup water

🍃1 tsp lemon juice

🍃1/2 tsp matcha powder

📌For Garnishing

🍃Crushed pistachios

🍃A light dusting of matcha powder

📌How to Make Matcha Kunafa

🍃1. Prepare the Kunafa Dough

• Cut the shredded kataifi dough into smaller strands using scissors or a knife.
  
  
• Pour the melted butter over the dough and mix thoroughly until every strand is evenly coated.
  
  
• Add the sugar and mix again. Set aside.

🍃2. Make the Matcha Cream

• Add the milk, fresh cream, sugar, and cornflour to a saucepan while the ingredients are still cold
  
  
• Whisk well until the cornflour dissolves completely and there are no lumps.
  
  
• Sift in the matcha and whisk until smooth.
  
  
• Add the sugar and mix again. Set aside.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat and continue whisking for 5-6 minutes, or until the mixture thickens into a smooth, custard-like cream that coats the back of a spoon.
  
  
• Remove from the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.

🍃3. Layer the Base

• Grease your baking tin well with butter.
  
  
• Spread half of the buttered kunafa dough evenly across the bottom.

• Press it down firmly with your palms or the back of a spoon to create a compact, even layer.

🍃4. Add the Matcha Filling

• Pour the cooled matcha cream over the base.
  
  
• Spread gently with a spatula, making sure the filling reaches all the corners.

🍃5. Add the Top Layer

• Spread the remaining buttered kunafa dough evenly over the cream.
  
  
• Press down gently but firmly to create an even top layer and seal the filling inside.

🍃6. Bake Until Golden

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  
  
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking at the 25-minute mark.
  
  
• The top should be golden brown and crisp. If needed, bake for another 5 minutes.

🍃7. Make the Matcha Syrup

• Add the sugar, water, and lemon juice to a small saucepan.
  
  
• Simmer over low-medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  
  
• Remove from the heat and whisk in the sifted matcha until smooth.

🍃8. Finish and Serve

• Pour the warm syrup evenly over the kunafa as soon as it comes out of the oven.
  
  
• Let it rest for 5 minutes.
  
  
• Garnish with crushed pistachios and a light dusting of matcha.
  
  
• Slice and serve warm.

📌Why You'll Love This Matcha Kunafa

• Trending dessert fusion: Combines the crispy texture of kunafa with the distinctive flavor of matcha.
  
  
• Crispy and creamy: Golden kataifi pastry surrounds a smooth, rich filling.
  
  
• Beautiful natural color: Matcha gives the dessert its signature green hue without added food coloring.
  
  
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it approachable for home bakers.
  
  
• Perfect for sharing: Its beautiful layers make it ideal for parties, celebrations, and gatherings.
  
  
• Delicious flavor contrast: Sweet syrup balances the gentle earthy notes of matcha, while pistachios add a nutty crunch.

📌Expert Tips for the Best Matcha Kunafa

🍃1. Sift the Matcha

Always sift your matcha powder before adding it to liquids. This helps prevent clumps and creates a smoother filling and syrup.

🍃2. Choose Matcha for Recipes

A versatile culinary-grade matcha works particularly well in desserts because its flavor pairs nicely with milk, cream, sugar, and buttery pastry.

🍃3. Don't Overbake

Start checking the kunafa at around 25 minutes. The top should be golden and crisp without becoming overly dark or dry.

🍃4. Add the Syrup While Warm

Pour the syrup over the kunafa immediately after baking. The warm pastry absorbs the syrup more evenly.

🍃5. Add Matcha After Heating

For the syrup, remove the pan from the heat before adding the matcha. Whisk thoroughly until smooth.

🍃6. Let It Rest

Allow the kunafa to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This gives the filling and pastry time to settle.

🍃7. Store Leftovers Properly

Store leftover kunafa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

The pastry may soften after refrigeration. Reheat it briefly in the oven to bring back some of its crispness.

📌Can You Make Matcha Kunafa Without an Oven?

Yes, you can make matcha kunafa without an oven, although the stovetop method requires more attention.

Use a heavy-bottomed non-stick pan and cook over very low heat with a lid until the bottom becomes golden and the filling is set.

For a more consistent result, baking is recommended because it helps create an evenly golden and crispy top.

📌What Does Matcha Kunafa Taste Like?

Matcha kunafa has a buttery, crispy exterior and a smooth, creamy center.

The sweetness of the syrup balances the earthy flavor of matcha, while pistachios add a nutty crunch. The combination creates a rich dessert without being overly complicated.

📌Matcha Kunafa vs Traditional Kunafa

Traditional kunafa is generally made with shredded kataifi pastry, a sweet filling, syrup, and pistachios, although recipes vary across different regions.

This version keeps the familiar crispy pastry, sweet syrup, and pistachio topping while introducing a creamy matcha filling for a contemporary twist.

It's a simple way to combine the flavors of Japanese matcha with the textures of a traditional Middle Eastern dessert.

📌Conclusion

Matcha kunafa is a delicious fusion of crispy kataifi pastry, creamy matcha filling, sweet syrup, and crunchy pistachios.

Whether you're exploring trending matcha recipes or simply looking for an easy dessert with a unique twist, this recipe is a delicious one to try at home.

Ready to make it?

Ready to make your own matcha creations? Explore Bree Matcha and shop your favorite products today.

For more ideas, explore Bree Matcha recipes and discover more creative ways to enjoy matcha.