Syrian Jewish Yinafei Mountain Cake

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Yinafei Mountain Cake from Chinese cuisine to Syrian Jewish cuisine, we incorporate the unique flavors and ingredients of the latter. The original Chinese version typically uses ingredients like red bean paste or lotus seed paste, while the Syrian Jewish version replaces these with a sweet cheese filling. Additionally, we infuse the cake with aromatic spices commonly found in Syrian Jewish cooking, such as cinnamon and cardamom. The result is a delightful fusion of Chinese and Syrian Jewish flavors, creating a cake that is both familiar and exciting. We alse have the original recipe for Yinafei Mountain Cake, so you can check it out.

• 1 package of shredded phyllo dough (450g / 1lb) 1 package of shredded phyllo dough (450g / 1lb)
• 250g (9oz) sweet cheese, such as ricotta or farmer's cheese 250g (9oz) sweet cheese, such as ricotta or farmer's cheese
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) rosewater 1/4 cup (60ml) rosewater
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Chopped pistachios, for garnish Chopped pistachios, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 25g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, water, rosewater, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool.
3. 3.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet cheese, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of the cooled syrup. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
4. 4.
   Grease a round baking dish with butter. Place a layer of shredded phyllo dough at the bottom of the dish, brushing each layer with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering the phyllo dough and butter until you have used half of the dough.
5. 5.
   Spread the sweet cheese mixture evenly over the layered phyllo dough.
6. 6.
   Continue layering the remaining phyllo dough and butter on top of the sweet cheese mixture, brushing each layer with melted butter.
7. 7.
   Using a sharp knife, cut the cake into diamond or square shapes.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
9. 9.
   Remove the cake from the oven and pour the remaining cooled syrup over it, allowing it to soak into the layers.
10. 10.
    Garnish with chopped pistachios and let the cake cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shredded phyllo dough — Handle the phyllo dough gently to prevent it from tearing. Cover it with a damp cloth while working to keep it from drying out.
• Sweet cheese — If you can't find sweet cheese, you can substitute it with a mixture of ricotta cheese and cream cheese for a similar taste and texture.
• Rosewater — Use high-quality rosewater for the best flavor. Adjust the amount according to your preference for the intensity of the rose flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a crispy top layer, brush each phyllo dough layer generously with melted butter.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before serving to enhance the flavors and texture.
• Serve the Yinafei Mountain Cake at room temperature or slightly warm for the best taste experience.
• For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle some additional rosewater syrup over each serving.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Syrian Jewish Yinafei Mountain Cake as a delightful dessert after a delicious Syrian Jewish meal. Accompany it with a cup of hot tea or coffee to complement the flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the Yinafei Mountain Cake on a decorative platter, garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a handful of chopped pistachios. The golden layers of the cake will create an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.