Ekmak Syrian Bread is a delightful Syrian-style bread that combines rich ricotta cheese with tart blackberries, making it an irresistible treat for brunch or dessert. This unique bread, often served warm, showcases the rich culinary traditions of Syria. The balance of flavors and textures in this dish truly captivates the palate. With its tender exterior and luscious filling, it is a must-try for anyone seeking to explore authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Ekmak Syrian Bread

This Ekmak Syrian Bread is not just delicious but also offers a variety of benefits that make it special:

• Rich in flavor, thanks to the combination of creamy ricotta and sweet blackberries.
• Versatile enough to serve as a sweet breakfast or a delightful dessert.
• Easy to prepare, making it ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
• Naturally vegetarian, catering to various dietary preferences.
• Perfect for sharing during brunch gatherings or family feasts.
• Offers a unique twist compared to traditional Syrian flatbread.
• Represents a piece of authentic Syrian pita bread tradition.
• Provides a satisfying experience with its contrasting textures.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend brunch option or a special dessert to impress your guests, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Syrian bread while offering a modern twist.

Ingredients for Ekmak Syrian Bread

Gather these items:

• 20 oz (567 g) full-fat ricotta
• 63 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour (for the filling)
• 2 large eggs (for the filling)
• 28 g (4 tsp) honey
• 3/4 tsp (2.25 g) kosher salt (for the filling)
• 115 g (3/4 cup) fresh blackberries, halved
• 112 g (1/3 cup) blackberry preserves
• 4 tbsp granulated sugar, divided
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry or instant yeast
• 12 oz warm water (95–100°F / 35–38°C), divided
• 500–575 g all-purpose flour for the dough
• 1/4 cup (57 g) very soft butter
• 1 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 9 g (1 tbsp) kosher salt (for the dough)
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water for egg wash
• Confectioners’ sugar and honey to finish

How to Make Ekmak Syrian Bread Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, 63 g flour, 2 eggs, 28 g honey, and 3/4 tsp salt. Chill for at least 3 hours.
2. Step 2: Make the blackberry mix: Stir together halved blackberries, 112 g preserves, and 1 tbsp sugar. Set aside.
3. Step 3: Proof yeast: In a small bowl, whisk 2 1/4 tsp yeast with 1 tbsp sugar and 6 oz warm water. Let sit until foamy (5–10 minutes).
4. Step 4: Mix dough: In the mixer bowl, add 500 g flour, remaining 3 tbsp sugar, and soft butter. Use a dough hook on low for ~1 minute. Add yeast mixture and 1 1/2 tsp vinegar, then slowly add remaining 6 oz warm water.
5. Step 5: Knead the dough until it comes together and is tacky but not sticky, then add 1 tbsp salt and knead for 1 more minute.
6. Step 6: First rise: Form a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it double in size (about 45–60 minutes).
7. Step 7: Prep oven and pans: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) and line three baking sheets with parchment.
8. Step 8: Divide and rest: Deflate dough; rest for 10 minutes. Divide into 9 pieces, cover with oiled plastic, and rest for 15 minutes.
9. Step 9: Roll and shape: Roll each piece into a round, then stretch to 10″ × 4″ oval, spoon in filling, shape into a boat, and place on prepared sheets.
10. Step 10: Top and bake: Spoon 1 tbsp blackberry mixture onto each, egg wash, and bake for 15 minutes.
11. Step 11: Finish: Cool on pan for 10 minutes, dust with confectioners’ sugar, and serve warm with honey.

Pro Tips for the Best Ekmak Syrian Bread

Keep these in mind:

• Make sure to chill the filling adequately for the best flavor.
• Use fresh blackberries for a burst of flavor in each bite.
• Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
• Brush the bread with egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
• Follow the baking time closely to achieve the perfect texture.

Best Ways to Serve Ekmak Syrian Bread

Enjoy this homemade Syrian flatbread with:

• A drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
• Accompanied by a dollop of yogurt for a creamy contrast.
• As a dessert paired with fresh fruit or whipped cream.

How to Store and Reheat Ekmak Syrian Bread

To store, keep the bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–10 minutes. This method preserves its soft texture and delicious flavor, making it perfect for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ekmak Syrian Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Ekmak Syrian Bread?

The key to perfect Ekmak Syrian Bread lies in allowing the dough to rise adequately and not overmixing the filling. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.

Can I make Ekmak Syrian Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough ahead of time. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve, ensuring the freshest taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ekmak Syrian Bread?

Avoid using cold ingredients; always ensure that your water is warm for activating the yeast and that you chill the filling properly before use.

Variations of Ekmak Syrian Bread You Can Try

Experiment with these delightful twists on the traditional recipe:

• Add nuts like walnuts or pistachios for a crunch.
• Substitute the ricotta with cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Incorporate other fruits like raspberries or peaches for seasonal variations.
• Try savory fillings like spinach and feta for a unique twist.

Incredible homemade Ekmak Syrian Bread fresh from the oven.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or learn how to make easy cinnamon rolls for a sweet treat.

For tips on baking bread, you can also visit this guide on sliced bread or explore Mediterranean recipes for more inspiration.

Irresistible Ekmak Syrian Bread with Blackberry Filling

Print Recipe

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This ekmak is a Syrian-style bread filled with rich ricotta and tart blackberries, perfect for weekend brunches or dessert nights.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 3 hours
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 9 pieces 1x
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Syrian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 oz (567 g) full-fat ricotta
• 63 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour (for the filling)
• 2 large eggs (for the filling)
• 28 g (4 tsp) honey
• 3/4 tsp (2.25 g) kosher salt (for the filling)
• 115 g (3/4 cup) fresh blackberries, halved
• 112 g (1/3 cup) blackberry preserves
• 4 tbsp granulated sugar, divided
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry or instant yeast
• 12 oz warm water (95–100°F / 35–38°C), divided
• 500–575 g all-purpose flour for the dough
• 1/4 cup (57 g) very soft butter
• 1 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 9 g (1 tbsp) kosher salt (for the dough)
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water for egg wash
• Confectioners’ sugar and honey to finish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, 63 g flour, 2 eggs, 28 g honey, and 3/4 tsp salt. Chill for at least 3 hours.
2. Make the blackberry mix: Stir together halved blackberries, 112 g preserves, and 1 tbsp sugar. Set aside.
3. Proof yeast: In a small bowl, whisk 2 1/4 tsp yeast with 1 tbsp sugar and 6 oz warm water. Let sit until foamy (5–10 minutes).
4. Mix dough: In the mixer bowl, add 500 g flour, remaining 3 tbsp sugar, and soft butter. Use a dough hook on low for ~1 minute. Add yeast mixture and 1 1/2 tsp vinegar, then slowly add remaining 6 oz warm water.
5. Knead the dough until it comes together and is tacky but not sticky, then add 1 tbsp salt and knead for 1 more minute.
6. First rise: Form a ball, place in oiled bowl, cover, and let it double in size (about 45–60 minutes).
7. Prep oven and pans: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) and line three baking sheets with parchment.
8. Divide and rest: Deflate dough; rest for 10 minutes. Divide into 9 pieces, cover with oiled plastic, and rest for 15 minutes.
9. Roll and shape: Roll each piece into a round, then stretch to 10″ × 4″ oval, spoon in filling, shape into boat, and place on prepared sheets.
10. Top and bake: Spoon 1 tbsp blackberry mixture onto each, egg wash, and bake for 15 minutes.
11. Finish: Cool on pan for 10 minutes, dust with confectioners’ sugar, and serve warm with honey.

Notes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 70mg