If you’re looking to bring a taste of the Levant into your home, Cheese Manakeesh is the Middle Eastern flatbread dreams are made of: golden, bubbly cheese on a tender, pillowy base with a hit of olive oil and a scattering of sesame or nigella seeds. This recipe delivers on all fronts—melty, tangy, and satisfyingly substantial—and doesn’t require any special skills or obscure ingredients. Whether you’re whizzing through breakfast, prepping an epic brunch spread, or just rolling up your sleeves for a cheesy snack, this is one recipe that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how just a handful of simple, pantry-friendly staples magically come together for Cheese Manakeesh. Each ingredient layers on flavor or the perfect bit of texture—don’t skip any if you can help it, because they all work in the spotlight!
- All-purpose flour: The heart of our flatbread, bringing tenderness and a light chew to every bite.
- Instant yeast: Gives the dough its lovely lift and airy crumb—just mix it right in, no proofing required.
- Sugar: Just a splash to feed the yeast and add a whisper of flavor.
- Salt: It sharpens and balances everything, completing the savory symphony.
- Warm water: Helps activate the yeast for the dough to rise and become soft, but not sticky.
- Olive oil: Makes the crust supple and golden while amping up the taste and keeping things tender.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, stretchy topper that browns beautifully in the oven.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Adds a salty, creamy punch and classic Mediterranean tang.
- Nigella seeds or sesame seeds (optional): For a burst of crunch and an authentic touch—totally worth it!
How to Make Cheese Manakeesh
Step 1: Make and Knead the Dough
Start by mixing your flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a big bowl—these are the base notes of your Cheese Manakeesh. Pour in the warm water and olive oil, and stir until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Once combined, turn it out onto a floured work surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and pleasantly elastic. No fancy equipment needed, just a bit of elbow grease and maybe a favorite playlist in the background!
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Pop your dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise somewhere warm for about an hour, or until doubled in size. This step is where the magic happens—the dough gets pillowy and dreamy, setting the stage for that perfect manakeesh bite.
Step 3: Shape the Flatbreads
Punch down your dough gently to release air, then divide it into four equal pieces. Take each ball and roll it into an 8-inch circle. They don’t have to be ruler-perfect—those handmade edges are part of manakeesh’s unmistakable charm.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Mix together your shredded mozzarella and crumbled feta in a small bowl. Spoon this mix generously over each dough round, leaving a slim border for the crust. This blend brings meltiness and that sharp cheese flavor—irresistible once baked!
Step 5: Dress the Crust and Sprinkle Seeds
Brush the exposed dough edges with a little extra olive oil to encourage that golden finish. For crunch and tradition, sprinkle nigella or sesame seeds over the edges—you’ll love that little pop of flavor when you take a bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your prepared rounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated 450°F (230°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Watch for the cheese to turn bubbly and lightly golden, while the crust crisps beautifully at the edges. Serve warm and enjoy every gooey, molten mouthful!
How to Serve Cheese Manakeesh
Garnishes
For a final flourish, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, mint, or even a drizzle of olive oil gives your Cheese Manakeesh an aromatic lift. A pinch of Aleppo pepper or sumac also adds a subtle, sophisticated kick and a beautiful splash of color.
Side Dishes
Traditionally, manakeesh is served with a spread of Mediterranean sides: think juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, salty olives, and wedges of lemon. Labneh or thick yogurt joins the party to cool and round out the salty cheese, while fresh veggies balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the (pizza) box by slicing each Cheese Manakeesh into strips for dipping, stacking as part of a mezze board, or serving mini versions as handheld snacks at your next gathering. They’re also incredible topped with a fried egg for breakfast or drizzled with honey for a sweet-savory twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Cheese Manakeesh tightly in foil or place in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 12 hours, or refrigerate for 2–3 days. The crust may soften, but the flavor remains on point.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked manakeesh! Once cooled, layer parchment between each round and seal in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight for effortless, cheesy convenience.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked taste, reheat Cheese Manakeesh in a hot oven (400°F/200°C) for 5–7 minutes or use an air fryer for crisp edges. Microwaving works in a pinch for a soft, melty result—though oven or air fryer is best for a fresh feel.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses for Cheese Manakeesh?
Absolutely! Try akkawi or halloumi for a more traditional flavor, or experiment with other melting cheeses you love. Just make sure to include at least one cheese that melts well for optimal texture and gooeyness.
Why did my dough turn out tough or dry?
This can happen if too much flour is added or if the dough is over-kneaded. Stick to the measured ingredients and knead only until the dough is smooth and elastic for soft, tender results.
What’s the best way to get a crisp crust?
Baking at high heat is key! Make sure your oven is fully preheated, and use a parchment-lined baking sheet or—if you have one—a pizza stone will push the crisp factor even further.
Are nigella seeds required?
Not at all, but they do add an authentic and delicious hint of oniony flavor. Sesame seeds are a lovely alternative or simply skip both if you prefer a plain cheese finish.
Can I make Cheese Manakeesh ahead for a crowd?
Yes! You can prep the dough and even bake the breads a few hours ahead. Just reheat in the oven briefly before serving, and top with garnishes right before bringing them to the table.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to give Cheese Manakeesh a try—once you savor that hot-from-the-oven combination of soft bread and golden cheese, you’ll wonder how you ever did breakfast, brunch, or snack time without it. Enjoy every bite, and don’t be surprised if this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite!
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Cheese Manakeesh Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including rise time)
- Yield: 4 manakeesh
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheese Manakeesh is a delicious Middle Eastern flatbread topped with a blend of mozzarella and feta cheese. This savory dish is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, offering a flavorful taste of Lebanese cuisine.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water (plus more as needed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Topping:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon nigella seeds or sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Dough Preparation: In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Assembly and Baking: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 8-inch circle. Place on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix the mozzarella and feta cheeses. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over each dough round, leaving a slight border. Brush the crust edges with olive oil and sprinkle with nigella or sesame seeds if desired. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can use akkawi or halloumi cheese in place of mozzarella and feta for a more traditional flavor.
- These are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in the oven or air fryer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 flatbread
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
