Method

• Prepare the cheese filling: In a bowl, combine the crumbled akkawi cheese, heavy cream, and cardamom. Mix well.
  
  
• Assemble the kunafa: Lay out a sheet of phyllo pastry. Brush with melted butter. Repeat with 5-6 more sheets of phyllo pastry, brushing each layer with butter.
  
  
• Add the filling: Spread the cheese filling over the phyllo pastry.
  
  
• Roll the kunafa: Starting from one end, roll the phyllo pastry tightly into a log.
  
  
• Cut the kunafa: Cut the log into 1-inch thick slices.
  
  
• Arrange the kunafa: Arrange the kunafa slices in a baking dish.
  
  
• Bake the kunafa: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  
  
• Make the sugar syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, lemon juice, and rose water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the syrup thickens.
  
  
• Soak the kunafa: Pour the hot sugar syrup over the baked kunafa.
  
  
• Serve: Serve warm or cold, garnished with pistachios or chopped nuts.