Description
Umm Ali is a warm, comforting Middle Eastern dessert made with layers of flaky pastry or toasted bread soaked in sweet milk, topped with nuts and raisins, then baked until golden and bubbly. It’s rich, creamy, and lightly crisp on top — the ultimate cozy dessert served fresh from the oven.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
For the Base:
4–5 sheets puff pastry (baked and broken into pieces)
OR 5 cups toasted bread or croissants (for umm ali recipe with bread)4 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
¾–1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
½ cup raisins
½ cup sliced almonds
½ cup chopped pistachios
¼ cup shredded coconut
Optional Additions:
½ cup condensed milk (for extra richness)
½ cup chocolate chips (for umm ali chocolate variation)
½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry or Bread
If using puff pastry, bake according to package directions until golden and crisp. Let cool, then break into bite-sized pieces.
If using bread or croissants, lightly toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until crisp.
Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla. Stir until sugar dissolves. Do not boil — just heat until warm.
Step 3: Assemble
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish:
Layer half the pastry or bread pieces
Sprinkle half the nuts, raisins, and coconut
Repeat layers
Pour the warm milk mixture evenly over the top. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.
For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end (watch carefully).
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm. Garnish with extra pistachios or a drizzle of cream.
Notes
- Authentic Style: Traditionally made with puff pastry for flaky texture.
- Budget Version: Umm ali recipe with bread works perfectly and reduces waste.
- Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips between layers for umm ali chocolate.
- Make Ahead: Assemble ahead and bake just before serving.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days; reheat in oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Egyptian / Middle Eastern