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Kataifi with Ice Cream

Kataifi with Ice Cream is a delightful Greek dessert that combines the rich textures of shredded phyllo pastry with the creaminess of ice cream. Traditionally enjoyed on special occasions, this dish showcases the harmonious balance of flavors, especially when paired with sweet cherry preserves. The kataifi pastry is first baked to a golden perfection, creating a crispy nest that holds a generous scoop of your favorite ice cream, whether it be creamy vanilla or the aromatic kaimaki. Finished with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios and a dollop of syrupy cherry preserve, this dessert is as visually appealing as it is delicious, reflecting the vibrant culinary heritage of Greece and inviting you to indulge in its sweet embrace.

Dessert | Greek | Shellfish-Free | Soy-Free | Vegetarian | Frozen Dessert | Baking Tray | Oven | Butter | Kataifi Pastry | Baking | Festive | Quick
Time to complete

Prep

10min

Cook

25min

Wait

30min

Total

1h 5min

Ingredients (Makes 4 portions)
  • 1 package kataifi pastry (approx. 400 g)
  • 150 g unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 kg ice cream (kaimaki or vanilla)
  • 1 jar cherry preserve (approx. 300 g)
  • 100 g crushed pistachios
Nutrition Information (per 100g)
  • Calories: 303
  • Fat: 18
  • Protein: 5
  • Carbohydrates: 31
  • Fiber: 1
Directions

Preparation

  • 1. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).

Preparing the Kataifi

  • 2. Gently pull apart the strands of kataifi pastry with your fingers to separate them.

Forming Nests

  • 3. Take equal amounts of the pastry and shape them into large nests.

Baking

  • 4. Place the nests onto a large baking tray and brush them generously with melted butter.

Cooking

  • 5. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooling

  • 6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 30 minutes.

Serving

  • 7. Place each nest on a plate, add a scoop of ice cream into the center, and sprinkle with crushed pistachios.

Finishing Touch

  • 8. Top each serving with a spoonful of cherry preserve before serving.
Cookix's Secrets

Baking Tips

  • Ensure the kataifi is evenly brushed with butter for a golden, crispy finish.

Flavor Enhancements

  • Add a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce for extra sweetness.

Flavor Pairing

  • Experiment with different flavors of ice cream, such as pistachio, for a nutty twist.

Healthier Options

  • Use low-fat ice cream or a dairy-free alternative to lighten the dessert.

Ingredient Swaps

  • Replace cherry preserve with other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry.