Nut-Free Kadaif is a delightful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, perfect for those avoiding nuts while still craving a decadent treat. This fragrant creation layers buttery, golden-brown strands of delicate shredded phyllo dough (Kadaif) with a vibrant medley of dried apricots, raisins, and figs, flavored with warm cinnamon and zesty orange. A luscious homemade syrup infused with lemon juice gently soaks into the crispy layers, adding just the right balance of sweetness and tang. With a prep time of only 30 minutes and a bake time of 60 minutes, this nut-free version maintains all the indulgence and charm of the original, making it perfect for large gatherings or festive occasions. Serve this unique dessert warm or at room temperature, and watch your guests swoon over every syrupy, fruit-filled bite!
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a bowl, gently separate the strands of the Kadaif dough with your fingers to ensure they are loose and not clumped together.
Pour the melted butter over the Kadaif and toss well to ensure all the strands are coated evenly.
In another bowl, combine chopped dried apricots, raisins, chopped dried figs, orange zest, and cinnamon. Mix well.
Spread half of the buttered Kadaif dough in an even layer on the bottom of a greased baking dish (about 30x20 cm).
Evenly distribute the dried fruit mixture over the Kadaif layer in the baking dish.
Cover the fruit layer with the remaining buttered Kadaif dough, pressing gently to ensure the layers stick together.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
While the Kadaif is baking, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, lemon juice, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Lower the heat and let the syrup simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
Once the Kadaif is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
Slowly pour the cooled syrup over the warm Kadaif, ensuring the syrup covers the entire dish evenly.
Allow the Kadaif to absorb the syrup for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Calories |
4441 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 149.2 g | 191% | |
| Saturated Fat | 82.3 g | 412% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 328 mg | 109% | |
| Sodium | 2244 mg | 98% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 762.2 g | 277% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 34.6 g | 124% | |
| Total Sugars | 377.2 g | ||
| Protein | 50.9 g | 102% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.8 mcg | 9% | |
| Calcium | 453 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 14.0 mg | 78% | |
| Potassium | 2678 mg | 57% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.