Chilled Kadayıf Dessert (Soğuk Kadayıf Tatlısı)
About the Dessert:
Chilled Kadayıf Dessert is a delightful Turkish sweet treat that perfectly balances crunchy shredded pastry (kadayıf) with the richness of butter, aromatic vanilla-infused milk syrup, and the subtle nuttiness of walnuts. Its textured layers are lightly pressed to create a firm, chewy base that soaks up a sweet, milky syrup, resulting in a creamy and refreshing finish. Typically garnished with grated chocolate and pistachios, this dessert is served cold, making it an elegant and soothing end to any meal—an exquisite fusion of flavors and textures straight from the heart of Turkish culinary tradition.
Ingredients
- Ingredients Serves ~12
- 500 g fresh kadayıf shredded phyllo dough
- 200 g unsalted butter melted
- 1½ cups roughly chopped walnuts
- For the Syrup:
- 3½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 liter milk approximately 5 cups
- 1 packet about 2–3 tsp vanilla
- For Topping:
- 100 g chocolate grated
- Finely chopped pistachios optional
Instructions
- How to Make It:
- Prepare the Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the milk and sugar, stirring over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil and simmer for about 15 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla, and set aside to cool completely.
- Assemble the Kadayıf Layers:
- Spread the fresh kadayıf in a wide tray and drizzle the melted butter over it. Using your hands, gently work the butter into the strands until they are evenly coated and moist throughout.
- Layer the Dessert:
- Press half of the buttered kadayıf into a 24 x 35 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish, forming a compact, even layer. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over this layer, then cover with the remaining kadayıf. Use a cutting board or a flat, sturdy object to press down firmly, ensuring the layers are well-compressed.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), conventional setting (no fan). Bake for about 50 minutes or until the top turns golden and crisp.
- Soak and Chill:
- Remove from the oven and let it rest until the initial heat subsides. Pour half of the cooled milk syrup over the warm kadayıf, allowing it to absorb. Slice the dessert into portions, then pour the remaining syrup evenly over the top. Transfer to the refrigerator and let it chill thoroughly, at least a couple of hours, so the syrup can fully infuse the pastry layers.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once chilled, sprinkle the grated chocolate over the top. Add a shower of finely chopped pistachios if desired. Serve the dessert cold, savoring its delicate interplay of textures and flavors.
Notes
Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: ~380 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~50 g
Protein: ~6 g
Fat: ~18 g
(Values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)
Carbohydrates: ~50 g
Protein: ~6 g
Fat: ~18 g
(Values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)