This recipe started with me wanting to make that viral Dubai chocolate, but somewhere along the way, I ended up with something so much better—Knafeh Cookies. They’re sweet, nutty, and dipped in chocolate, made with just a few simple ingredients that come together in the most satisfying way.
These knafeh cookies are crunchy thanks to toasted kataifi pastry, and the pistachio paste brings that rich, Middle Eastern flavour I love. They’re the kind of treat that looks fancy but is incredibly easy to make. And once they’re dipped in chocolate and drizzled with pistachio? Trust me, they’re a showstopper.
If you’re a fan of my more traditional Barazek Cookies or the quick and gluten-free Choc Chip Peanut Butter Cookies, you’ll love this one. These cookies are perfect for gifting, Eid trays, or just having with coffee when you feel like something sweet but different.
Toast the Kataifi
Cut the kataifi pastry into small pieces using a sharp knife. In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the chopped kataifi. Toast, stirring frequently, until it turns a deep golden colour and becomes crispy.
Combine and Shape the Cookies
While still warm, mix the toasted kataifi with ½ cup of slightly melted pistachio spread until well combined and the mixture holds together. Using an ice cream scoop, portion the mixture onto a sheet of baking paper. For uniform cookies, press them down inside an egg ring or gently flatten with the base of a cup. Refrigerate or freeze until firm.
Dip, Drizzle, and Set
Melt the chocolate, then stir in the reserved handful of chopped chocolate to temper it, creating a glossy finish. Dip each frozen cookie entirely into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage, then place on a tray lined with baking paper. If the cookies soften, return them to the freezer before continuing. Once set, trim any excess chocolate and drizzle the tops with melted pistachio spread.
Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Mini no-bake cakes layered with cocoa cream and cherries. Make them ahead and watch them disappear from your dessert table!
This chocolate raspberry loaf is all about the swirls! Rich, moist, and topped with a silky buttercream—simple yet a masterpiece in every bite.
