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Individual Strawberry & Pistachio Knafeh Trifles

Modern individual trifle cups inspired by traditional Middle Eastern Knafeh. Layers of crispy shredded phyllo, fresh strawberries, crushed pistachios, rich chocolate ganache, and vanilla mascarpone cream make a stunning and delicious dessert.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 trifle cups
Course: Dessert, Individual Portions
Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion, Turkish Inspired
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Knafeh Base
  • 1 lb raw shredded phyllo dough kataifi, carefully broken apart
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup ground pistachios optional, for base flavor
Cream & Fruit
  • 1 cup heavy cream chilled
  • 0.5 cup mascarpone cheese softened
  • 0.25 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pint fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 tbsp rose water optional
Chocolate & Garnish
  • 1 cup prepared chocolate sauce rich ganache is best, or high quality pudding
  • 0.5 cup whole pistachios plus crushed for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Individual serving cups or glasses

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a rimmed baking sheet.
  2. Break apart the raw shredded phyllo dough in a large bowl. Pour melted butter and granulated sugar over, and toss thoroughly until every strand is coated.
  3. Press dough into an even layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes until deeply golden and crispy. Let cool completely.
  4. In a large chilled bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and mascarpone (and rose water if using) until stiff peaks form.
  5. Start layering in cups: Begin with a good layer of chocolate sauce.
  6. Follow with a layer of mascarpone cream, then sliced strawberries. Crumble the cooled knafeh base and add a substantial layer.
  7. Add another layer of mascarpone cream. Repeat layering strawberries and chocolate sauce. Drizzle more chocolate for effect.
  8. Top with remaining strawberries and a generous amount of whole and crushed pistachios. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Can be prepped ahead, but best assembled shortly before serving for best crunch. The knafeh layer will eventually soften.