Classic Greek Kataifi with Honey Syrup

Kataifi is one of the most iconic Greek desserts, beloved for its delicate golden strands of pastry that crisp beautifully in the oven. Paired with a nutty filling and finished with sweet honey syrup, this dessert offers a taste of authentic Mediterranean tradition. Whether you are recreating a family recipe or trying it for the first time, making kataifi at home is both rewarding and surprisingly approachable.

What is Kataifi?

Kataifi is a shredded phyllo pastry used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. In Greek cooking, kataifi is often wrapped around nuts and baked before being drenched in syrup made from honey, sugar, and citrus. Its texture is crunchy yet tender, making it a standout dessert on festive tables.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this classic Greek kataifi with honey syrup, gather these ingredients:

• 1 package kataifi pastry (shredded phyllo)
• 2 cups walnuts (or almonds/pistachios), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the syrup:
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • Juice of half a lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Nut Filling

Mix the chopped walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. This combination forms the sweet, aromatic center of your kataifi rolls.

2. Shape the Kataifi

Unroll the kataifi pastry and gently separate the strands. Take a small portion, spread it out, and place a spoonful of nut mixture in the center. Roll tightly into a log and place on a buttered baking dish. Repeat until all pastry and filling are used.

3. Butter and Bake

Brush each kataifi roll generously with melted butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

4. Make the Honey Syrup

While the kataifi bakes, combine honey, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

5. Combine and Serve

Once the kataifi is baked, pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot rolls. Allow the dessert to absorb the syrup for at least 2–3 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle extra crushed pistachios on top for added color and crunch.
• Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream.
• Pair with Greek coffee or mint tea for a traditional touch.

Tips for Perfect Kataifi

To achieve bakery-quality kataifi at home, keep these tips in mind:

• Keep the pastry covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
• Use high-quality honey for the syrup to enhance the flavor.
• Allow enough resting time for the syrup to soak into the pastry fully.

Why This Recipe Works

This classic Greek kataifi balances crunch, sweetness, and spice. The butter ensures even browning, while the honey syrup keeps the rolls moist inside. The combination of nuts and cinnamon delivers an authentic taste of Greek tradition.

Explore More Kataifi Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like exploring our other kataifi recipes, such as kataifi tartlets with chocolate ganache or festive kataifi for special occasions.