If you’ve never tried cheese manakeesh, you’re in for a treat! Imagine biting into a warm, soft flatbread topped with gooey, melty cheese and a sprinkle of aromatic herbs. The combination of savory cheese with the light, fluffy dough is truly irresistible. This Middle Eastern dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, and it’s guaranteed to make you crave more. Trust me, this cheesy delight will soon become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Cheese Manakeesh

Cheese manakeesh is the perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy meal at home, entertaining guests, or just indulging in some comfort food, this dish is versatile and sure to please. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: You can customize the topping to suit your taste. Add some za’atar for extra flavor, or use a blend of cheeses to mix it up.

Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are simple, so you can make this tasty dish without breaking the bank.

Quick and Easy: The dough takes just a little time to rise, and the rest is a breeze. You’ll have warm, cheesy manakeesh ready in no time!

Customizable: Add some olives, tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a unique twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: Cheese manakeesh is a universal favorite, especially if you’re hosting a brunch or a casual meal. It’s loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients in Cheese Manakeesh

This dish uses simple yet delicious ingredients that come together to create a perfect combination of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need to make cheese manakeesh:

Dough: A soft, pillowy dough forms the base of the manakeesh. It’s easy to make and needs just a little time to rise.

Cheese: A blend of cheese like mozzarella, feta, or akkawi is commonly used. The mozzarella gives the dish a melty texture, while feta or akkawi adds a saltiness and richness.

Yogurt: A little yogurt is added to the dough to keep it soft and tender, giving the manakeesh that perfect bite.

Olive Oil: For brushing the dough and adding a bit of richness to the final product.

Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or mint are sprinkled over the cheese for added flavor.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Cheese Manakeesh: A Deliciously Savory Middle Eastern Treat

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this cheesy, savory masterpiece:

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Slowly add water and olive oil, then knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the cheese, yogurt, and a splash of olive oil. Stir to combine, creating a creamy, spreadable mixture. You can add herbs or spices at this point if you’d like to boost the flavor.

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into smaller portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it into a round shape, about 6 inches in diameter.

Top the Dough: Spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture onto each dough round, leaving a small border around the edges. Use the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.

Bake: Place the cheese-topped dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven and brush the edges of the manakeesh with a little olive oil for extra richness. Optionally, sprinkle with herbs like fresh parsley or mint.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm, and enjoy the cheesy goodness! These are perfect on their own or served with a side of olives and fresh tomatoes.

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus rising time)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Cheese Manakeesh

Cheese manakeesh is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make your meal even better:

With Fresh Vegetables: Serve with a simple salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a refreshing contrast.
For Breakfast: Pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for the perfect start to your day.
With Hummus: For extra flavor, serve with a side of hummus or baba ganoush for dipping.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella, feta, and goat cheese for unique flavors.
Za’atar Topping: Add a sprinkle of za’atar to the top of the cheese mixture before baking for an authentic Middle Eastern flavor.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake the manakeesh later for a quick meal.

FAQ’s

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes! You can use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, feta, and even ricotta for different flavors.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.
Can I freeze cheese manakeesh?
Yes, you can freeze the baked manakeesh. Let them cool completely before wrapping and freezing. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes.
What kind of yogurt should I use for the dough?
Any plain yogurt will work, but Greek yogurt will give the dough a richer texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover manakeesh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I make a vegan version of this?
Yes! Use a dairy-free cheese substitute and make sure your yogurt is plant-based for a vegan-friendly option.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough instead of making it from scratch.
How thick should I roll the dough?
Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thick. It should be soft and pillowy, not too thin or too thick.
Can I add other toppings?
Yes, you can add olives, tomatoes, or even a drizzle of olive oil on top before baking.
What can I serve with cheese manakeesh?
Serve with a side of fresh salad, hummus, or even a bowl of soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cheese manakeesh is the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory. This dish is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a great addition to any meal or a snack on its own. Whether you’re new to Middle Eastern cuisine or a seasoned pro, this manakeesh will quickly become one of your favorites. Enjoy every cheesy bite!