To begin, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Take a large bowl and place the shredded kataifi dough in it. Use your hands to gently separate and fluff the shreds. Pour the melted butter over the dough, making sure to distribute it evenly, and mix thoroughly until the kataifi is well-coated. This will ensure a crispy, golden pastry.

Take an 8 inch round baking dish or a non-stick pan and spread half of the buttered kataifi evenly across the bottom, pressing it down gently with your hands to create a firm base. Set aside while you prepare the cheese filling.

Drain the soaked akawi cheese and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. In a bowl, mix the akawi cheese with the ricotta cheese until well combined. This blend will give the filling a perfect balance of saltiness and creaminess.

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the kataifi base, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. Then, take the remaining kataifi dough and spread it on top of the cheese layer, pressing down lightly to encase the cheese completely.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Rotate the dish halfway through the baking time for even browning. Meanwhile, prepare the sugar syrup.

To make the sugar syrup, combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a gentle boil. Add the lemon juice and let the syrup simmer for 7-8 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom water and rose water. Let it cool.

Once the knafeh is baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Pour the cooled sugar syrup evenly over the hot knafeh, allowing it to soak into the layers. Be sure to save some syrup for serving, if desired.

To serve, cut the knafeh into squares or wedges and garnish with the finely chopped pistachios. This sweet cheese pastry is best enjoyed warm, with a drizzle of extra syrup if you prefer more sweetness. The combination of crispy kataifi, creamy cheese, and fragrant syrup creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavours that is truly irresistible.