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Umm Ali is a traditional Egyptian dessert that’s often compared to bread pudding but with a rich, exotic twist. Made from layers of flaky pastry, soaked in sweet milk and cream, and topped with a mix of nuts and raisins, Umm Ali is a creamy, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This decadent treat is a staple at Egyptian feasts and celebrations, bringing together the warmth of homemade goodness with the luxury of rich ingredients.

Ingredients

1 lb (0.45 kg) puff pastry, baked and broken into pieces

4 cups (1 liter) whole milk

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

1 cup (0.2 kg) sugar

1/2 cup (0.1 kg) mixed nuts (almonds, pistachios, walnuts), chopped

1/4 cup (0.05 kg) raisins

1/4 cup (0.05 kg) shredded coconut

1 tsp (5 g) vanilla extract

1/4 tsp (1 g) ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Pastry: If you haven’t done so already, bake the puff pastry according to package instructions. Once baked, let it cool slightly, then break it into bite-sized pieces and spread them evenly in a large baking dish.

Heat the Milk Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling.

Assemble the Dessert: Pour the warm milk mixture evenly over the pastry pieces, ensuring they are fully soaked. Sprinkle the chopped nuts, raisins, and shredded coconut over the top. If you like, you can also sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon for extra flavor.

Bake the Umm Ali: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The milk should be mostly absorbed, and the dessert should have a pudding-like consistency.

Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Serving

Umm Ali is best served warm, straight from the oven. You can serve it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. This dessert is perfect for sharing with family and friends, especially during festive occasions or as a comforting treat after a hearty meal.

Umm Ali is a dessert that truly captures the essence of Egyptian comfort food. The combination of flaky pastry, sweet milk, and a mix of nuts and raisins creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re enjoying it at a family gathering or as a special treat, Umm Ali is a dessert that’s both easy to make and unforgettable to taste.