Umm Ali Recipe – Egyptian Dessert With Puff Pastry
Umm Ali, a beloved Egyptian dessert, is the epitome of indulgence—a warm, comforting treat that blends the richness of puff pastry with the creamy sweetness of milk and the crunch of mixed nuts. Traditionally enjoyed during festive occasions, this dessert is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to explore the flavors of the Middle East in their own kitchen. If you’re craving something both decadent and satisfying, this Umm Ali recipe with puff pastry is just what you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Puff Pastry Sheet | 200 grams (torn into pieces) |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Condensed Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup (and more for garnish) |
| Saffron Strands | A few strands |
| Slivered Almonds (Badam) | 4 tablespoons |
| Raisins | 1 tablespoon |
| Pistachios (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Desiccated Coconut | 3 tablespoons |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 1 cup |
Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Servings
8
Cuisine
Middle Eastern
Course
Dessert
Diet
Vegetarian
Instructions
This Umm Ali recipe is simple to follow, and the end result will leave you with a luscious dessert that’s perfect for sharing or indulging in after a hearty meal. Here’s how to make this flavorful Egyptian dessert.
Step 1: Prepare the Milk Mixture
In a large saucepan, combine half of the condensed milk, the full amount of regular milk, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir the mixture continuously over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. This will create a creamy base for your dessert.
Step 2: Add the Nuts and Coconut
Once the sugar has dissolved, add the slivered almonds, raisins, chopped pistachios, and desiccated coconut to the milk mixture. Stir everything together until well combined. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few more minutes, then remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for about 10 minutes. While the oven heats, grease a square-shaped baking dish lightly. Tear the puff pastry sheets into small pieces and arrange them in the greased dish. Once done, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18 minutes, or until the puff pastry puffs up and turns golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
Step 4: Soak the Puff Pastry
Once the puff pastry is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm milk and nut mixture over the puff pastry. Gently press down to help the pastry soak up the milk. Allow it to soak for a few minutes, ensuring the pastry absorbs the flavorful mixture well.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the remaining condensed milk, heavy whipping cream, saffron strands, and a little extra sugar (if desired). Whisk this mixture until it’s smooth and well combined. This will add richness and a luxurious texture to your dessert.
Step 6: Final Layering and Baking
Pour the prepared cream mixture over the puff pastry and milk mixture, ensuring it covers evenly. Garnish the top with any remaining nuts and saffron strands. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the Umm Ali from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. The dessert can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, but it is best served while still warm for that perfect creamy texture. Scoop portions into individual bowls, garnish with extra slivers of almonds, pistachios, or saffron if desired, and enjoy this indulgent treat!
Serving Suggestions
Umm Ali is a versatile dessert that can be paired with other Middle Eastern dishes for a complete meal. It’s especially delicious after a hearty Egyptian meal such as Koshari, a one-pot dish that combines lentils, rice, pasta, and a tangy tomato sauce. The richness of Umm Ali provides a perfect balance to the savory flavors of the main course.
This Umm Ali recipe is a fantastic introduction to Egyptian dessert culture, with its sweet, creamy base and delightful texture. With the use of puff pastry, it brings a modern twist to the traditional dessert, making it accessible and easy to prepare. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to something sweet, this dessert will surely be a hit.
