Qatayef

Qatayef, also transliterated as atayef or qatayef, is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert commonly prepared and served during Ramadan. It consists of small, pancake-like rounds that are fried or baked, then folded with a filling and soaked in sweet syrup.

Preparation typically begins with a batter of flour, semolina, water, sugar, and a small amount of yeast or baking powder. The batter rests briefly, then spoonfuls are cooked on a lightly oiled griddle to form thin disks. While warm, each disk is opened or split and filled with sweet fillings such as Akkawi cheese, ricotta, or ground nuts with sugar and cinnamon. The disks are then folded in half around the filling and the edges pinched to seal. The pastries may be fried until crisp or baked until golden, and are then soaked in a sugar syrup scented with rose water or orange blossom.

Variants exist across regions. Cheese-filled qatayef are common in the Levant and Egypt, while nut-filled versions are favored in the Gulf and North Africa. Some pastries are fried until crisp, others are baked, and in many places they are finished by soaking in a fragrant sugar syrup flavored with rose water or orange blossom.

Cultural context: Qatayef is closely associated with Ramadan and is often prepared in households and bakeries as an after-iftar treat. It is frequently served with tea or coffee and may be presented as a festive dessert during family gatherings or celebrations.