Description
Muakacha (Phyllo Crinkle Dessert) is a delicious Middle Eastern pastry made with layers of crispy phyllo dough, filled with a nutty, spiced mixture, and soaked in a sweet syrup. It’s the perfect combination of crunch and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 package of phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup walnuts or pistachios (or a mix), finely chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir in the rose water or orange blossom water and let it cool.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts or pistachios with sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Assemble the Muakacha: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. Layer 10-12 sheets of phyllo dough in the pan, brushing each with butter. Sprinkle the nut mixture evenly over the layers. Add another 8-10 layers of phyllo dough on top, pressing down gently and scoring the top into squares or diamonds.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Add the syrup: Pour the cooled syrup over the hot pastry. Let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb.
- Serve: Cut into squares or diamonds and serve!
Notes
- Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.
- For a sugar-free version, substitute with sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
