Crispy Kunafa with Sweet Cheese Filling

1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2In a mixing bowl, separate the kunafa dough (1 lb) strands.

3Pour the melted butter over the dough strands and mix well to ensure they are evenly coated.

4Press half of the buttered dough into the bottom of a baking dish to form the base.

5In a separate bowl, mix the mozzarella and ricotta cheese (2 cups) together and spread the cheese mixture over the dough base.

6Cover the cheese filling with the remaining buttered dough strands, forming the top layer.

7Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the kunafa turns golden brown and crispy.

8While the kunafa is baking, prepare the sugar (1 cup) syrup by combining sugar (1 cup), water (1 cup), and lemon juice (1 tablespoon) in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until the sugar (1 cup) is dissolved and the syrup thickens slightly.

9Once the kunafa is cooked, remove it from the oven and pour the sugar (1 cup) syrup evenly over the hot kunafa.

10Garnish with chopped pistachios (½ cup) and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

11Slice and serve the crispy kunafa warm, enjoying the contrasting textures of the crispy pastry and gooey cheese filling.