Kadaif is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert featuring thin, shredded dough, often filled with nuts and soaked in sweet syrup. This recipe combines the crunchiness of the dough with the rich flavors of nuts and the sweetness of syrup, making for a delightful treat. It's perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious treat for family and friends.
Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Prepare Kadaif Dough: Gently separate the kadaif dough strands with your fingers. Mix the dough with melted butter until well coated.
Add Nuts: Mix the chopped nuts with cinnamon. Spread half of the buttered kadaif dough evenly into the baking pan. Press gently. Sprinkle the nut mixture over the dough layer. Cover with the remaining kadaif dough, pressing down lightly.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the top turns golden brown.
Make Syrup: While the kadaif is baking, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Add rose water or orange blossom water, if using.
Combine Kadaif and Syrup: Remove the kadaif from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over it. Allow it to soak in for at least 1 hour.
Serve: Cut into pieces and serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.