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Crispy kunafa cups filled with melty white chocolate and creamy dulce de leche, topped with crushed pistachios—ready in under 30 minutes!
Looking for a dessert that’s crispy, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet—without using any refined sugar? These Kunafa cups are your answer! They’re crunchy on the outside, filled with melty white chocolate and creamy caramel in the middle, and topped with a sprinkle of pistachios. You only need a few ingredients and 5 minutes to prep. Great for parties, family nights, or a sweet bite after dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Kunafa Cups with White Chocolate, Dulce de Leche & Pistachio Recipe
Ready in under 30 minutes
You don’t have to wait long! These bites are quick to prep and bake, so you’ll be snacking in no time.
Fun to make (and eat!)
Shaping the kunafa into little cups, filling them, and topping with nuts and chocolate—it’s like edible arts and crafts!
Beautiful presentation for guests
They look fancy, like something from a bakery. Perfect for serving at parties or bringing to family gatherings.
Customizable with your favorite fillings
Not a fan of pistachios? Try almonds, dark chocolate, or even fruit. You can switch it up and make them just the way you like.
Ingredients & Why They Work
For the Base:
- 250g Kunafa pastry (shredded phyllo dough): Crispy and golden when baked—this gives the dessert its signature crunch.
- 80ml melted butter: Helps the kunafa turn golden and adds rich flavor.
- 2 tbsp honey: Naturally sweetens the base without refined sugar.
For the Filling:
- 100g white chocolate (melted): Sweet and smooth, this balances the crunchy base.
- 200g dulce de leche: Thick, creamy caramel that pairs perfectly with white chocolate.
Garnish:
- Crushed pistachios: Adds crunch and color.
- Extra honey (optional): For drizzling on top, if you want a little extra sweetness.
Let’s Make It
1. Prep the Kunafa
Cut the kunafa into short strands—about 3 cm long. Place them in a big mixing bowl.
Pour in the melted butter and honey. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is coated and slightly sticky.
2. Shape the Cups
Grease a muffin tin or small baking cups with leftover butter. Press the kunafa mixture into the bottom and up the sides to form a little nest or cup.
3. Bake the Base
Add some melted butter
Pop the tray in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
4. Mix the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the melted white chocolate and dulce de leche until smooth and creamy.
5. Fill and Finish the Kunafa Cups
Once the kunafa cups are fully baked and slightly cooled, it’s time to fill them.
Use a piping bag to neatly swirl the creamy white chocolate and dulce de leche mixture into each cup. This not only looks beautiful but also gives you even, mess-free portions.
Then, sprinkle with crushed pistachios for a pop of color and added crunch.
(Optional: Add a light drizzle of honey for extra shine and sweetness.)
6. Chill or Serve Warm
You can serve these warm (for a gooey center) or chill them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes for a firmer texture. Either way, they’re delicious!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
- Watch the oven: Every oven is different, so check your kunafa at 18 minutes.
- Press firmly: Make sure the kunafa is packed tight in the mold so it holds shape.
- Don’t burn the butter: Use low heat when melting and keep a close eye.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Non-stick Muffin Pan – 12 Cup
- Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set
- Small Silicone Spatula
- Mini Measuring Cup Set
How to Serve Kunafa Cups with White Chocolate, Dulce de Leche & Pistachio
Serve these on a pretty dessert tray with a side of warm mint tea or Arabic coffee. They also look amazing in mini cupcake wrappers for parties!
Kunafa Cups Best Paired With
These golden, crispy kunafa cups filled with creamy white chocolate and dulce de leche are rich and indulgent—so pairing them with the right drink or side can take your dessert experience to the next level. Here are some perfect pairings:
Arabic Coffee (Gahwa)
Lightly spiced with cardamom and served without sugar, Arabic coffee balances the sweetness of the kunafa beautifully. It’s a classic Middle Eastern combo.
Mint Tea
A warm cup of fresh mint tea adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the filling. It’s soothing, aromatic, and light—great after a meal. If you don’t have mint then try this Ginger-Peach Iced Tea
Iced Espresso or Cold Brew
The bold, slightly bitter notes of iced coffee help cut through the creamy sweetness. Perfect for a modern dessert-and-coffee pairing.
Warm Milk with a Dash of Cinnamon
For something kid-friendly and cozy, warm milk with a sprinkle of cinnamon complements the dessert’s warm, caramel notes.
Fresh Berries or Fruit Salad
Serve your kunafa cups with a small side of tart berries or citrus fruit to add freshness and balance. It also brightens up your dessert tray visually.
Diet-Friendly Options
- Lighter version: Use Greek yogurt mixed with a little honey instead of dulce de leche.
- Vegan version: Swap the butter with plant-based butter and use vegan white chocolate.
Best Ways to Store
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the unfilled kunafa cups and fill them fresh when ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling for warmth.
- Use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate.
- Add a drop of rose water or orange blossom to make it more traditional.
- Fill with Nutella or cream cheese for a fun twist!
Kunafa Cups with White Chocolate, Dulce de Leche & Pistachio
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
- Baking tray or muffin tin
- Spoon or piping bag (optional for filling)
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 250g kunafa pastry (shredded phyllo dough)
- 80ml melted butter (reserve a little for greasing)
- 2 tbsp honey
For the Filling:
- 100g white chocolate, melted
- 200g dulce de leche (or sweetened condensed milk caramel)
For Garnish:
- Crushed pistachios
- Extra honey (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Kunafa:Cut the kunafa dough into small 3 cm strands.In a large bowl, mix the kunafa with melted butter and honey until fully coated.
- Bake the Base:Grease a muffin tin or baking tray with the reserved butter.Press the kunafa mixture into small nests or rounds.Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 20 minutes or until golden and crisp.
- Make the Filling:In a small bowl, mix melted white chocolate with dulce de leche until smooth.
- Assemble the Dessert:Spoon the creamy filling into the baked kunafa nests.Top with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios.Drizzle with extra honey, if desired.
- Serve & Enjoy:Let cool slightly or chill before serving. Great for gatherings or a sweet bite after dinner.
Notes
Pro Tips & Variations:
- No oven? Lightly pan-toast the kunafa in butter until golden and crisp.
- Add rose water or orange blossom water to the filling for an authentic floral note.
- Substitute dulce de leche with sweetened ricotta or Greek yogurt + honey for a lighter version.
- Make it in a mini tart pan for fancier presentation.
FAQ – Kunafa cups with White Chocolate, Dulce de Leche & Pistachio
1. Can I use store-bought kunafa dough?
Yes! Pre-shredded kunafa dough works great. Just make sure to cut it into smaller strands (about 3 cm) so it fits neatly into your muffin tins or baking cups
2. Is dulce de leche the same as caramel?
Not exactly. Dulce de leche is a milk-based caramel that’s thicker and creamier. It’s perfect for filling desserts like these because it blends well with white chocolate and holds its shape.
3. What can I use instead of dulce de leche?
You can substitute it with sweetened condensed milk caramel, thick Greek yogurt mixed with honey, or even a spoon of Nutella or cream cheese for a fun twist.
4. Are these kunafa cups sugar-free?
They don’t have any added refined sugar. The sweetness comes from natural honey, white chocolate, and dulce de leche—all of which may contain some sugar, but no extra sugar is added in the recipe.
5. Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the kunafa cups in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just fill and garnish before serving for the freshest taste and texture.
6.What other toppings can I use?
Try chopped almonds, walnuts, a dusting of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of melted dark chocolate. These bites are super versatile!
These Kunafa cups are a total game-changer for anyone who loves dessert but wants something simple and slightly healthier. They’re crunchy, creamy, sweet, and oh-so-pretty—what more could you ask for?