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Kadayif and Walnut Dessert Recipe

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4.4 from 389 reviews

A delightful Middle Eastern dessert featuring crispy kadayif noodles layered with a rich walnut filling, drenched in a fragrant lemon-vanilla syrup, and garnished with fresh strawberries and crushed pistachios. Perfect for vegan dessert lovers seeking a sweet, nutty treat with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Kadayif Mixture

  • 500g Kadayif Noodles
  • 100g Vegan Butter, Melted
  • 150 ml Sunflower or vegetable oil
  • 130g Walnuts, Finely Chopped

Syrup

  • 450g Caster Sugar
  • 500ml Water
  • Juice of 1/2 Lemon
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Extract

Garnish

  • 6 Strawberries, Halved
  • 30g Crushed Pistachios

Instructions

  1. Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine the caster sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  2. Prepare the kadayif noodles: In a large bowl, mix the kadayif noodles with the melted vegan butter and sunflower or vegetable oil, ensuring all strands are well coated to achieve crispiness when cooked.
  3. Assemble the dessert: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, layer half of the buttered kadayif noodles evenly. Spread the finely chopped walnuts over this layer, then cover with the remaining kadayif noodles, pressing gently to compact the layers.
  4. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the kadayif is golden brown and crisp.
  5. Add syrup: Remove the kadayif from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot dessert to allow it to absorb fully. Let it rest for at least 1 hour to soak up the syrup.
  6. Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish the dessert with halved strawberries and crushed pistachios for added color and texture. Cut into slices and enjoy.

Notes

  • Ensure the syrup is fully cooled before pouring it onto the hot kadayif to get the best texture.
  • You can substitute walnuts with pistachios or almonds according to preference.
  • For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before chopping.
  • Store leftover dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • The dessert can be served warm or at room temperature depending on preference.