Katayef (Sweet and Delicious Desert from Iraq)

As a little girl, Lana loved this desert that her mum made. When her mum considered it safe for her to attempt it, she passed on the recipe with supervision. Ever since then, her kids and friends have enjoyed it whenever she makes it. Here, the secret recipe is unleashed!
This happens to be one of the children's favorites.

INGREDIENTS
1 package Katayef (shredded Filo Dough); 3 sticks sweet butter or margarine (melted); 1 pound fresh Ricotta Cheese; and Sweet syrup (see recipe following)

METHOD
In a large bowl, fluff the Katayef until it is all pulled apart. Pour the melted butter over the Katayef and keep on fluffing so it is all mixed together. Grease an oven-proof dish and layer 1/2 of the Katayef dough on the bottom. Spread all of the Ricotta Cheese over the dough, and layer with the remaining dough. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 40-50 minutes or until golden brown on top. Pour syrup on top and serve.
"AWAFI".
Recipe for Sweet Syrup2 cups sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice1 cup water 1 tablespoon Rosewater
Mix sugar, water, lemon juice in a saucepan and let boil for about 8 minutes. Add Rosewater and continue to boil for another minute. Remove from heat, let cool a bit, and pour over Katayef. Quantity is as desired for sweetness.

A Recipe from Lana (Djedda) Bakhash