Delicious Umm Ali Recipe for a Perfectly Sweet Egyptian Dessert

Umm Ali is a beloved Egyptian dessert that has delighted taste buds for centuries. This warm, creamy, and sweet treat combines layers of flaky pastry, milk, nuts, and raisins to create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. If you have a sweet tooth and want to try something unique and rich in history, Umm Ali is an excellent choice. This recipe will guide you through making this traditional dessert step-by-step, ensuring you get the authentic taste of Egypt right in your kitchen.

Traditional Egyptian Umm Ali dessert served in a ceramic bowl

What is Umm Ali?

Umm Ali, which means "Ali's mother," is a traditional Egyptian bread pudding. It dates back to the 13th century during the Mamluk Sultanate. The story goes that after the death of the Sultan’s wife, Umm Ali, the dessert was created in her honor and quickly became a staple in Egyptian cuisine.

The dessert consists of layers of puff pastry or croissants soaked in sweetened milk, mixed with nuts such as pistachios, almonds, and walnuts, and often includes raisins or coconut flakes. It is baked until golden and bubbly, resulting in a creamy, crunchy, and sweet dish that is both satisfying and indulgent.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make Umm Ali, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500 grams of puff pastry or croissants (store-bought or homemade)

• 4 cups of whole milk

• 1 cup of heavy cream

• 1 cup of granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup of shredded coconut (optional)

• 1/2 cup of chopped pistachios

• 1/2 cup of chopped almonds

• 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts

• 1/2 cup of raisins

• 1 tablespoon of butter (for greasing the baking dish)

  
  

These ingredients combine to create the rich texture and flavor that Umm Ali is famous for.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Umm Ali

Preparing the Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Break the puff pastry or croissants into small pieces, roughly 2-3 cm in size.

3. Spread the pieces evenly on a baking tray and bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden and crispy. This step ensures the pastry will absorb the milk mixture without becoming soggy.

   
   

Making the Milk Mixture

1. In a large saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and sugar.

2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.

3. Add the vanilla extract and remove from heat once the mixture is hot but not boiling.

   
   

Assembling the Dessert

1. Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter.

2. Spread half of the baked pastry pieces evenly in the dish.

3. Sprinkle half of the nuts, raisins, and shredded coconut over the pastry layer.

4. Pour half of the milk mixture over the layers, allowing the pastry to soak.

5. Repeat the layering process with the remaining pastry, nuts, raisins, coconut, and milk mixture.

   
   

Baking Umm Ali

1. Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the milk mixture is bubbling.

3. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

   
   

Tips for the Perfect Umm Ali

• Use fresh nuts: Freshly chopped nuts add a crunchy texture and enhance the flavor.

• Adjust sweetness: You can reduce or increase the sugar based on your preference.

• Milk alternatives: For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or almond milk, but whole milk gives the best creamy texture.

• Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the dessert.

• Serve warm: Umm Ali tastes best when served warm, straight from the oven.

  
  

Variations of Umm Ali

While the traditional recipe is delicious, there are many ways to customize Umm Ali to suit your taste:

• Chocolate Umm Ali: Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top before baking.

• Fruit additions: Incorporate chopped dates, dried apricots, or fresh fruits like bananas.

• Vegan version: Use coconut milk and plant-based cream instead of dairy.

• Different nuts: Experiment with cashews, hazelnuts, or pecans for varied textures.

  
  

Serving Suggestions

Umm Ali is a versatile dessert that pairs well with many accompaniments:

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a cold contrast.

• Drizzle with honey or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible rose petals for a decorative touch.

• Enjoy with a cup of strong Egyptian coffee or mint tea to balance the richness.

  
  

Why Umm Ali is a Must-Try Dessert

Umm Ali offers a unique combination of textures and flavors that few desserts can match. The crispy pastry contrasts with the creamy, sweet milk, while the nuts add crunch and earthiness. It is a dessert that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for family gatherings or special celebrations.

This recipe is also a great way to explore Egyptian culture through food. Making Umm Ali connects you to a centuries-old tradition and allows you to experience a taste of Egypt’s rich culinary heritage.