There’s something truly magical about warm, freshly baked flatbread crowned with melty, savory cheese that just hits all the right comfort cravings. If you’ve ever tasted Middle Eastern street food, then the Cheese Manakeesh Recipe will instantly become your new obsession. This Lebanese classic combines a soft, chewy dough with a luscious blend of cheeses that melt into every bite, offering a vibrant, flavorful experience. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or a light meal, this recipe brings a perfect balance of texture and taste straight from the heart of Arabic cuisine to your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Cheese Manakeesh Recipe is delightfully simple, and the ingredients are all pantry-friendly essentials that work together to create something extraordinary. Each component plays a crucial role, from the yeast that makes the dough airy, to the olive oil that adds richness, and, of course, the cheeses that give this flatbread its signature creamy, tangy flavor and gorgeous melt.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): This helps the dough rise beautifully and become wonderfully fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast to activate it for that perfect dough lift.
- 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C): Warms and wakes the yeast while hydrating the flour for soft dough.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and chewiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dough.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds tenderness and a subtle fruity richness to the dough.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Akkawi, Mozzarella, or mixed white cheeses: The melty, creamy topping that defines the dish.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional): Adds a delightful tangy punch that few can resist.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Helps the cheese blend smoothly and melt perfectly.
- Optional pinch of nigella seeds or dried mint: Adds a hint of aromatic spice or fresh herbaceous notes on top.
How to Make Cheese Manakeesh Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by dissolving the active dry yeast and sugar in warm water. This little step is the secret to getting your dough light and airy—wait until the mixture becomes foamy, showing the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Combine your flour and salt in a large bowl, then add the foamy yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix these together until a shaggy dough forms—the texture might look rough now, but don’t worry, that’s just the beginning.
Step 3: Knead Until Smooth
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 6 to 8 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic; this is what will give your Cheese Manakeesh that perfect chewy bite that’s so heavenly.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and set it somewhere warm to rise. After about an hour, it should have doubled in size—this rising step breathes life into your dough.
Step 5: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Cheese
Preheat your oven to a scorching 475°F (245°C) and pop a baking sheet or pizza stone inside so it heats thoroughly. Meanwhile, mix your shredded cheese with milk to encourage a smooth, melty topping.
Step 6: Shape and Top the Flatbreads
Punch down your risen dough and divide it into four equal parts. Roll each ball into an 8-inch circle on a floured surface, then lay them on parchment papers. Generously spread the cheese mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to keep it neat.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your cheese-topped flatbreads onto the hot baking surface and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. Watch for bubbling, golden cheese and a crispy yet soft crust—this is when your Cheese Manakeesh Recipe truly shines!
How to Serve Cheese Manakeesh Recipe
Garnishes
Once out of the oven, sprinkle your Cheese Manakeesh with a pinch of nigella seeds or dried mint to add a little aromatic delight. Freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil can also brighten each bite and make your flatbread look irresistible.
Side Dishes
This cheesy treat pairs beautifully with fresh salads like a crisp cucumber and tomato mix or a side of tangy labneh to balance the richness. You can also serve it alongside olives and pickled vegetables to add a burst of complementary flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a mezze spread, create mini Cheese Manakeesh rounds as finger foods, or cut larger flatbreads into wedges for sharing. Adding a side of za’atar or a small bowl of spicy chili oil for dipping can also elevate the experience and impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Cheese Manakeesh, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days—perfect for a quick snack or next-day breakfast.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked dough balls after the first rise, wrapped securely in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then shape and bake as usual. Baked flatbreads can also be frozen wrapped airtight and warmed up later.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the Cheese Manakeesh into a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This method crisps the crust again and remelts the cheese, reviving that freshly baked charm wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for Cheese Manakeesh Recipe?
Absolutely! While Akkawi and mozzarella are traditional favorites for melt and flavor, feel free to experiment with similar mild, white cheeses to suit your taste and availability.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
You can try gluten-free all-purpose flour blends, but achieve the perfect texture might be tricky as gluten contributes to that chewy, elastic dough. Adding xanthan gum often helps mimic gluten’s binding properties.
How long does the dough need to rise?
The dough should rise for about one hour or until it doubles in size. This step cannot be rushed as it’s key to developing the dough’s airy structure.
Can I make smaller Cheese Manakeesh for appetizers?
Definitely! Mini Cheese Manakeesh are fantastic as part of a mezze platter, and they bake more quickly—adjust baking time to 5 to 7 minutes accordingly.
What’s the best way to achieve a crispy crust?
Using a preheated baking stone or sheet really helps crisp the bottom, and baking at a high temperature (475°F) ensures the crust gets that golden crunch while keeping the inside tender.
Final Thoughts
Making the Cheese Manakeesh Recipe at home is a joyful, rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and delivers a taste of Middle Eastern tradition right to your plate. It’s easy enough to make any day and special enough to share with friends and family. Give it a whirl, and you might just find yourself reaching for this go-to recipe time and time again!
Print
Cheese Manakeesh Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rising)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 flatbreads 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheese Manakeesh is a traditional Middle Eastern flatbread topped with a blend of white cheeses, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This recipe features a soft, elastic dough topped with a melty cheese mixture, baked until golden and bubbly, delivering a deliciously savory treat that’s simple to make at home.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Akkawi, Mozzarella, or a mix of white cheeses
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for tanginess)
- 1 tablespoon milk (to moisten cheese)
- Optional: pinch of nigella seeds or dried mint
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready for use.
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead by hand for 6–8 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let Dough Rise: Cover the dough and place it in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size, allowing the yeast to ferment and the dough to develop flavor and texture.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a baking sheet or pizza stone inside to heat, ensuring the flatbreads bake evenly and get a crisp crust.
- Prepare Cheese Topping: In a small bowl, mix the shredded cheeses with milk to help the cheese melt smoothly during baking.
- Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to remove air bubbles. Divide it into 4 equal balls and roll each into an 8-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Place each circle on parchment paper.
- Add Cheese Topping: Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture evenly over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Optionally sprinkle nigella seeds or dried mint for added flavor.
- Bake: Transfer the parchment with the prepared flatbreads onto the hot baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust turns golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove from oven and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Manakeesh is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a toaster oven for convenience.
- Use traditional cheeses like Akkawi or Nabulsi, or mix them with mozzarella for an authentic melt and flavor balance.
- Consider making mini versions of Manakeesh for a mezze platter or party appetizer.
