Description
A traditional Egyptian dessert made with layers of flaky pastry soaked in sweet milk, then baked until golden and topped with nuts and raisins. Rich, creamy, and slightly crispy on top, Om Ali is often served warm and is considered Egypt’s version of bread pudding.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for one medium baking dish, about 8–10 servings):
For the Base:
5 cups puff pastry pieces or croissants (baked and broken into chunks)
4 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
½ cup raisins
½ cup sliced almonds
½ cup pistachios (chopped)
½ cup shredded coconut
2 tablespoons sugar (for topping)
Optional:
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Sweetened condensed milk (for extra richness)
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
If using puff pastry, bake until golden and crisp, then break into bite-sized pieces. If using croissants, cut or tear into chunks.
Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture
In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla. Heat gently until hot but not boiling, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Step 3: Assemble
Place pastry pieces in a baking dish. Add raisins and half of the nuts and coconut.
Pour the hot milk mixture evenly over the pastry, making sure everything is soaked.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Sprinkle remaining nuts, coconut, and sugar on top. This creates a golden, slightly crunchy layer.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Croissant Version: Using croissants gives a richer, buttery flavor compared to puff pastry.
- Extra Creamy: Add a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk before baking.
- Serving Tip: Best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers and reheat in the oven to keep the crispy top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Egyptian