Name: Kadayif and Walnut Dessert with Lemon Syrup and Strawberry-Garnished Pistachios Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 500g Kadayif Noodles; 100g Vegan Butter, melted; 150 ml Sunflower or vegetable oil; 130g Walnuts, finely chopped; 450g Caster Sugar; 500ml Water; Juice of 1/2 Lemon; 2 tsp Vanilla Extract; 6 Strawberries, halved; 30g Crushed Pistachios

If you’re anything like me and love desserts that strike the perfect balance between crispy texture and sweet, nutty flavor, then you’re definitely going to want to try this Kadayif and Walnut Dessert with Lemon Syrup and Strawberry-Garnished Pistachios Recipe. It’s a traditional favorite that has this beautiful crunch from the shredded kadayif noodles paired with the warm, earthy richness of walnuts. Topped off with a tangy lemon syrup and fresh strawberries alongside pistachios, this dessert feels special enough for celebrations but is simple enough to enjoy any time you crave something truly delightful.

What I really appreciate about this recipe is how the lemon syrup cuts through the sweetness with just the right amount of zing, making every bite refreshingly balanced. Plus, the strawberry-garnished pistachios not only add color but also a subtle freshness and crunch that makes it hard to stop eating. Whether you’re inviting friends over or just treating yourself to a moment of indulgence, this Kadayif and Walnut Dessert with Lemon Syrup and Strawberry-Garnished Pistachios Recipe is a winner in my book.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dessert lies in combining simple, high-quality ingredients that complement each other perfectly. When shopping, look for fresh kadayif noodles and good quality walnuts for that rich flavor, and don’t overlook the fresh strawberries and pistachios that bring freshness and crunch to the final dish.

Kadayif Noodles: These are shredded phyllo-like dough that become wonderfully crispy when baked. Fresh or frozen versions work well, just defrost before use.
Vegan Butter: Melted, it helps the noodles crisp up beautifully without overpowering their delicate flavor.
Sunflower or Vegetable Oil: Adds extra crispiness and ensures the dessert isn’t dry.
Walnuts: Finely chopped for texture and warmth. Toasting them lightly enhances their nuttiness.
Caster Sugar: For the syrup, it dissolves quickly and sweetens evenly.
Water: The base of the lemon syrup that keeps everything moist and luscious.
Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, tangy note that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Vanilla Extract: Deepens the flavor of the syrup with a sweet aroma.
Strawberries: Halved for fresh, vibrant garnish.
Crushed Pistachios: For garnish, providing a lovely contrast in both taste and color.

Variations

This recipe is pretty versatile, and I love tweaking it depending on what I have on hand or the occasion. You can easily personalize it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

Nut Options: I’ve swapped walnuts for almonds or hazelnuts when I wanted a different twist, and each brings a unique character to the dessert.
Syrup Flavors: Adding a cinnamon stick or a few cardamom pods to the syrup while it simmers gives it a wonderful aromatic boost.
Vegan Adjustments: Using coconut oil instead of butter works beautifully if you’re avoiding dairy or prefer a slightly tropical aroma.
Fruit Garnishes: Beyond strawberries, fresh raspberries or chopped figs are a personal favorite for an elegant look and flavor variation.

How to Make Kadayif and Walnut Dessert with Lemon Syrup and Strawberry-Garnished Pistachios Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Kadayif Base

Start by gently loosening the kadayif noodles with your hands; if they’re frozen, make sure they’re fully thawed first. This helps them separate and bake evenly crispy. Then, mix the melted vegan butter with sunflower oil and toss it with the noodles so every strand is well-coated. This little step ensures the dessert bakes up golden and crispy rather than clumpy or greasy.

Step 2: Layer and Fill

Butter your baking dish lightly and spread half the kadayif noodles evenly. Sprinkle the finely chopped walnuts over this layer, then gently top with the remaining noodles, pressing lightly so the layers stick together. This layering traps the walnuts in the middle, giving you those beautiful nutty bites as you eat.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the layered kadayif for about 35-40 minutes until it’s deeply golden and crisp on the edges. Watching it bake is always exciting—the aroma is one of my favorite signals that dessert time is near!

Step 4: Make the Lemon Syrup

As the dessert bakes, prepare the syrup by combining caster sugar, water, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until it slightly thickens. This syrup is where the magic happens—the citrusy notes balance the sweetness perfectly, and the vanilla adds warmth.

Step 5: Soak and Garnish

Once the baked kadayif is out of the oven, pour the warm syrup evenly over it while it’s still hot. It will soak right in, making each bite moist yet crisp. Let it rest for at least an hour to absorb fully, then sprinkle the crushed pistachios over the top along with the halved strawberries for that fresh, eye-catching finish.

How to Serve Kadayif and Walnut Dessert with Lemon Syrup and Strawberry-Garnished Pistachios Recipe

A round dish with eight triangular slices of a golden-brown crispy dessert made from thin, noodle-like layers, each topped with a piece of bright red strawberry and a small pile of green finely ground pistachio in the center of each slice. The dessert sits in a clear glass round dish placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a basket filled with whole walnuts and a clear glass cup of dark tea on a white saucer with floral patterns. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I always keep it simple but elegant—fresh halved strawberries and a good sprinkle of crushed pistachios add such a beautiful color contrast and a pop of fresh flavor that complements the rich layers beneath. Sometimes I add a small dollop of lightly whipped coconut cream to keep it vegan-friendly but add a creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of Turkish coffee or spiced chai tea, which helps cut through the sweetness while boosting the cozy vibes. I also enjoy serving it alongside a simple scoop of vanilla or cardamom ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to cut the dessert into small, bite-sized squares and serve them on a decorative platter with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for a festive feel. You can also serve individual portions in small glass jars layered with extra nuts and fruit toppings making it feel extra special and perfect for intimate gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftovers covered tightly in the fridge, ideally in a glass container to preserve freshness. It stays surprisingly crisp for up to 3 days, though the syrup will continue to soak in and soften the top layer a little. Just bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

Freezing this dessert isn’t my go-to because the syrup-soaked noodles can lose their crispness upon thawing. However, if you do freeze it, wrap it well and thaw overnight in the fridge. You’ll want to reheat it gently to revive some of the crunch.

Reheating

I usually warm leftovers in a low oven (around 160°C/320°F) for 10-15 minutes. This helps restore a bit of that crisp exterior without drying it out. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the kadayif soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts in the Kadayif and Walnut Dessert with Lemon Syrup and Strawberry-Garnished Pistachios Recipe?

Absolutely! While walnuts bring a lovely earthy richness, you can substitute with almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios depending on your taste or what you have on hand. Just be sure to chop them finely for even layering and toast them lightly to boost their flavor.
How do I keep the kadayif noodles crispy in this dessert?

Coating the noodles in melted butter and oil before baking is key to crispiness. Also, avoid over-soaking with syrup—pour it evenly and let the dessert absorb it gradually after baking. Storing leftovers covered but not airtight helps maintain texture as well.
Can I make the syrup ahead of time for this recipe?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon syrup a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Warm it slightly before pouring over the hot dessert to help it soak in evenly. This can streamline the process when you’re short on time.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes! By using vegan butter instead of regular butter, and confirming that your kadayif noodles don’t contain dairy, this recipe is fully vegan. The strawberry and pistachio garnish naturally complement the flavors without any animal products.
What’s the best way to serve this dessert for a party?

For parties, I recommend cutting the dessert into bite-sized pieces and offering them on a pretty platter with toothpicks or mini forks. Garnish with fresh fruit and nuts for a festive touch. Serving alongside strong coffee or tea enhances the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

This Kadayif and Walnut Dessert with Lemon Syrup and Strawberry-Garnished Pistachios Recipe has become one of my favorite go-to treats when I want to impress without fuss. It manages to be both elegant and comforting, with textures and flavors that surprise and delight. I really hope you give it a try—it’s like a little sweet escape in every bite that brings a bit of joy to any day. If you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!