Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
umm ali dessert close up

Umm Ali (Egyptian Bread Pudding Dessert)


  • Author: Savannah
  • Total Time: ~45 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Umm Ali is a classic Egyptian dessert made with flaky pastry, milk, sugar, and nuts, baked until golden and bubbling. It’s rich, creamy, slightly crispy on top, and often compared to bread pudding but with a luxurious Middle Eastern twist.


Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one medium baking dish, 6–8 servings):

For the Base:

56 croissants or 1 sheet puff pastry (baked and broken into pieces)
4 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mix-ins:

½ cup raisins
½ cup shredded coconut
½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts)

For the Topping:

¼ cup sliced almonds or pistachios
2 tablespoons sugar (for caramelized top)
Extra cream (optional, for richness)


Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry
If using puff pastry, bake it according to package instructions until golden, then break into bite-sized pieces. If using croissants, tear them into chunks.

Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture
In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Heat gently until warm (do not boil), then stir in vanilla.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Place pastry pieces in a buttered baking dish. Add raisins, coconut, and nuts evenly.

Step 4: Add Milk Mixture
Pour the warm milk mixture over the pastry until fully soaked. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Broil for Topping
Sprinkle nuts and sugar on top, then broil for 2–3 minutes until caramelized and slightly crispy.

Step 7: Serve
Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Croissant Version: Using croissants gives a richer, buttery flavor—perfect for umm ali recipe croissant variation.
  • Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate for umm ali chocolate.
  • Texture Tip: For extra creaminess, increase heavy cream and reduce milk slightly.
  • Serving Idea: Best enjoyed fresh and warm; reheating may soften the crispy top.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Egyptian / Middle Eastern