Qatayef Asafiri

Qatayef Asafiri (Cream-Filled Middle Eastern Pancakes)

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Qatayef Asafiri (also called Atayef bil Ashta) is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made of small, soft pancakes filled with cream (ashta) and topped with pistachios and syrup. Unlike classic fried qatayef, this version is not fried, making it lighter and fresher. It is especially popular during Ramadan, where it is served after iftar as one of the most iconic sweets across the Arab world. The word “Asafiri” means “little birds,” referring to the small size and half-open folded shape of the pancakes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft, fluffy pancake texture
  • Rich and creamy ashta filling
  • Fragrant flavors of rose water & orange blossom
  • Crunchy pistachio topping
  • No frying required

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup semolina (or fine farina)
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 👉 The batter is similar to pancake batter but slightly thinner to create the signature bubbly surface.
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp rose water
  • 1 tsp orange blossom water
  • 👉 Ashta is a thick, creamy filling flavored with floral notes, essential for authentic taste.
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp rose or orange blossom water
  • Crushed pistachios
  • Optional: honey drizzle
Qatayef Asafiri

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sugar Syrup

  1. Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer 8–10 minutes
  3. Add rose/orange blossom water
  4. Let it cool completely
  5. 👉 Syrup should be cold before serving for the best contrast.

2. Make the Batter

  1. Mix all batter ingredients until smooth
  2. Let rest for 30–60 minutes
  3. Heat a non-stick pan
  4. Pour small circles (like mini pancakes)
  5. Cook only on one side until bubbles form and dry
  6. 👉 This creates the signature porous surface that holds the filling perfectly.

3. Prepare the Ashta Cream

  1. Mix milk, cream, sugar, and cornstarch
  2. Heat until thickened
  3. Remove from heat and add floral waters
  4. Let cool completely

4. Assemble Qatayef Asafiri

  1. Take one pancake (bubble side inside)
  2. Add 1 tbsp cream
  3. Fold halfway (leave open like a taco)
  4. Dip open edge in pistachios
  5. Drizzle with syrup
  6. 👉 The half-open shape is what defines Asafiri style.
Qatayef Asafiri

Tips for Perfect Qatayef Asafiri

  • Batter must be smooth and slightly runny
  • Don’t flip pancakes — cook one side only
  • Fill only after pancakes cool
  • Use fresh pistachios for best flavor
  • Serve immediately for best texture

Variations

  • Ricotta version: Replace ashta with ricotta cream
  • Mascarpone filling for richer taste
  • Add cardamom or vanilla for extra flavor
  • Drizzle honey instead of syrup

Storage

  • Store assembled qatayef in fridge up to 2 days
  • Best served fresh
  • Do not freeze filled ones (cream texture changes)

FAQs

Is Qatayef Asafiri fried?

No — unlike traditional qatayef, this version is not fried, making it lighter.

What does it taste like?

Soft pancakes + creamy filling + floral syrup + crunchy pistachios

Can I make it ahead?

You can prepare components separately and assemble before serving

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