How Kunafa became the sweet sensation of 2025

The world of food trend is very dynamic. It is driven by many factors and social media being a key player among these factors often results in some very unique trends. One of such trends that became the sweet sensation of the year 2025 was Kunafa-a cheese-filled Middle Eastern desset. Let us explore how it became one of the popular foods trends of 2025.

The hype of Kunafa
As per experts, this simple looking regional dessert has now found a global status. What looked like a humble treat with golden crisp exterior and gooey, syrupy centre has slowly captured taste buds, social feeds, and menus around the world. At its heart, it is all about contrast and indulgence, which also saw OTT limelight via Bigg Bosss 19 and its viral connect with the contestant Tanya Mittal. Traditionally, it is about crunchy strands of kataifi or shredded phyllo dough wrapped around melting cheese or cream, soaked in sweet syrup and often topped with pistachios.

The shift in Kunafa
But thanks to food creators, chefs, influencers, and cafes, this humble dessert has gone through major reinventions in 2025; From Nutella Kunafa to kulfi-stylw and chocolate swirls, the shift has been familiar and fresh. And on social mediam videos of cheese pulls, syrup drizzles, and dramatic plating have turned kunafa into a must-try experience in India and abroad.

A reflection of changing food habit
As per experts, kunafa trend has not boomed in isolation. It is a result of broader shift in how people relate to desserts in 2025. According to the India Habit Index 2025, it has been found that there is demand for unique dining experiences and culturally diverse plating stories, and the rising trend of kunafa is a by-product it. Today, food is not just about nutrition, it is also about identity, discovery, and social expression.

What kunafa says about 2025
As per food experts, the trend of kunafa is here stay and it signals how deeply global flavours are blending in our daily life through digital storytelling and adventurous palates. It also reflects that how diners are drawn to foods that are visually captivating, emotionally satisfying, and culturally rich.

Images Courtesy: istock


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