How to Make Kataifi: A Step-by-Step Guide

Sharing is caring!

If you’ve ever wandered through the bustling streets of Greece or attended a festive gathering in the Middle East, you might have encountered a golden, crisp, and syrup-soaked delight known as Kataifi. This unique pastry, often compared to baklava, offers an unforgettable crunch paired with a sweet, nutty filling. But what if you could recreate this delicacy in your own kitchen?

Well, you’re in the right place! In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make Kataifi from scratch—achieving the perfect texture, taste, and balance of flavors. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a curious beginner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right ingredients to mastering the art of handling Kataifi dough. Let’s dive in!

What is Kataifi?

Kataifi is a beloved Greek and Middle Eastern dessert crafted from shredded phyllo dough, which is filled with a rich nut mixture and drizzled with a luscious honey syrup. Unlike traditional phyllo, Kataifi dough consists of fine, delicate strands that create an airy yet crispy texture when baked.

This dessert is often enjoyed during celebrations, family gatherings, and special occasions, making it a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. The balance of crunchy pastry, aromatic nuts, and sweet syrup makes it a delightful treat for those with a love for layered textures and rich flavors.

The History of Kataifi

Kataifi has a deep-rooted history in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures. It is believed to have originated centuries ago, evolving from traditional phyllo-based pastries. The dessert has variations across different countries:

• Greece: Often filled with walnuts and almonds, drizzled with a citrus-infused honey syrup.
• Turkey: Known as “Tel Kadayif,” sometimes filled with cheese instead of nuts.
• Arab Countries: A popular dessert, with some variations using pistachios and rosewater syrup.

Despite regional differences, the essence of Kataifi remains the same—a crispy, golden pastry paired with a flavorful filling and a fragrant syrup.

Ingredients for Homemade Kataifi

Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are the secret to an irresistible Kataifi dessert.

Sweet Kataifi Recipe Ingredients

Syrup Ingredients

The combination of butter-soaked pastry, crunchy nuts, and a fragrant syrup is what gives Kataifi its signature taste and texture.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Kataifi

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get started! Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect Kataifi.

Step 1 – Preparing the Filling

• Finely chop the walnuts and almonds (or your preferred nuts) into small pieces to create an even texture.
• In a bowl, mix the chopped nuts with sugar, cinnamon, and cloves to enhance the flavor. This combination gives Kataifi its traditional, aromatic filling.

Step 2 – Handling Kataifi Dough

• Gently separate the Kataifi strands to prevent them from clumping together.
• Keep the dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent it from drying out. Dried-out Kataifi becomes brittle and difficult to roll.
• If the dough is tangled, carefully pull apart small sections to ensure even distribution when rolling.

Step 3 – Assembling Kataifi Rolls

• Take a small section of Kataifi dough and spread it out on a flat surface.
• Place a spoonful of the nut mixture at one end.
• Carefully roll it up, ensuring it is firm but not too tight.
• Brush each roll generously with melted butter to keep the pastry moist and encourage even browning.

Step 4 – Baking Kataifi

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Arrange the Kataifi rolls in a buttered baking dish, ensuring they are close together but not overcrowded.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown and crisp.

Step 5 – Preparing the Syrup

• In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil.
• Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
• Add honey and lemon juice, stirring well to blend the flavors.
• Pour the warm syrup over the hot Kataifi rolls to allow it to soak in and create the perfect sweet balance.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Kataifi

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✅ Don’t overfill the rolls—too much filling can make rolling difficult and cause breakage.
✅ Brush with plenty of butter—this prevents dryness and enhances the crispy texture.
✅ Pour warm syrup over hot Kataifi—this ensures proper absorption and avoids sogginess.

Variations of Kataifi

Savory Kataifi Options

• Cheese Kataifi: Uses feta or ricotta, drizzled with honey for a sweet-salty balance.
• Seafood Kataifi: Wrapped around shrimp or scallops, then baked until golden.

Alternative Sweet Fillings

• Chocolate and Hazelnut Kataifi for a modern twist.
• Orange and Almond Kataifi for a citrus-infused version.

Serving and Storing Kataifi

• Serve warm with Greek coffee or mint tea for an authentic experience.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freeze unbaked Kataifi rolls for up to 3 months and bake fresh when needed.

FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Kataifi

Conclusion

Now that you know the secrets to making perfect Kataifi, it’s time to bring this delicious Greek dessert to your table. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with new flavors, this pastry is sure to impress.

Try out this Kataifi and let your creativity shine! We’d love to see your sweet creations. Tag us on Instagram at @SweetEatsRecipes and use the hashtag #Kataifi to get featured.

Print Recipe

Kataifi

This guide walks you through the process of making Kataifi, a crispy and syrup-soaked Greek pastry filled with a rich nut mixture. From handling the delicate Kataifi dough to preparing the perfect honey syrup, this step-by-step guide ensures your homemade Kataifi is just as delicious as the traditional version.

Prep Time30 minutes mins

Cook Time40 minutes mins

Resting Time30 minutes mins

Total Time1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 400kcal

Equipment

• Baking Dish
• Pastry brush
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

Kataifi Dough & Filling:

• 500 g Kataifi dough
• 200 g Unsalted butter
• 150 g Walnuts
• 100 g Almonds or pistachios
• 50 g Sugar
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• ½ tsp Cloves

Syrup:

• 250 g Sugar
• 250 ml Water
• 2 tbs pHoney
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice
• 1 stick Cinnamon

Instructions

• Prepare the Filling:

  Chop the walnuts and almonds into fine pieces.

  Mix them with sugar, cinnamon, and cloves.
• Handle the Kataifi Dough:

  Gently separate the strands to prevent clumping.

  Keep the dough covered with a damp towel.
• Assemble the Kataifi Rolls:

  Spread a small section of Kataifi dough on a flat surface.

  Add a spoonful of the nut mixture at one end.

  Roll it tightly but carefully and brush with melted butter.
• Bake the Kataifi:

  Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

  Place the rolls in a buttered baking dish.

  Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
• Prepare the Syrup:

  In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick.

  Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

  Stir in honey and lemon juice.
• Soak and Serve:

  Pour warm syrup over the hot Kataifi rolls.

  Allow them to absorb the syrup before serving

Notes

• Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
• Freeze unbaked Kataifi rolls for up to 3 months.
• Try different fillings like chocolate, cheese, or orange zest for variations.