Umm Ali (Egyptian Bread pudding)

“Umm Ali” is pronounced as “oom ah-lee.” Umm Ali, is a beloved dessert that carries the rich flavours and cultural heritage of Egypt. Originating from centuries-old Egyptian tradition, Umm Ali is a heavenly concoction of buttery puff pastry, creamy milk, nuts, and sweetened condensed milk, all baked to golden perfection. Its warm, comforting essence, makes it a cherished treat enjoyed during festive gatherings, family celebrations, and cosy evenings.

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Serve it warm or cold

Warm or cold: You can serve Umm Ali warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature or even cold.

Umm Ali offers a delightful experience whether served warm or cold. When served warm, the dessert retains some of its creamy texture, and a portion of the milk remains liquid, creating an opportunity to drizzle extra warm milk over each serving for added richness. On the other hand, serving it cold allows the flavours to meld together even further, with the milk being completely absorbed by the croissant and creating a creamy consistency throughout. Whether you prefer it warm with a drizzle of milk or chilled and fully absorbed, Umm Ali promises a delicious and comforting treat for any occasion.

Base: Puff pastry or other bread-like elements such as croissants, phyllo dough, or stale bread.

Dairy: Whole milk or heavy cream to provide richness.

Sweeteners: Sugar to sweeten the mixture.

Add-ins: Nuts (such as almonds, pistachios, and hazelnuts), raisins, and sometimes coconut flakes for added texture and flavour.

Spices: Often includes cinnamon and sometimes a hint of cardamom for warmth and depth.

Preparation:

Layering: Break the bread base into pieces, toast and layer it in a baking dish.

Mixing: Pour a mixture of hot milk, sugar, and sometimes cream over the bread.

Adding toppings: Sprinkle nuts, raisins, and other add-ins on top.

Baking: Bake the dish until the top is golden brown and the milk mixture is absorbed, creating a creamy, pudding-like consistency.

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Umm Ali (Egyptian Bread pudding)

Print Recipe

Umm Ali is a traditional Egyptian dessert resembling bread pudding, made with layers of puff pastry or bread, soaked in sweetened milk, and topped with nuts and raisins. Baked to a golden brown, this rich, creamy treat is perfect for festive occasions and family gatherings. Enjoy it warm or cold for a delightful taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Course Dessert

Cuisine Egyptian

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings 6

Author sumisculinarynotes

Ingredients

• 4 to 5 plain croissants
• 3 cups whole milk preferably full-fat milk
• 1 ½ cups whipping cream 36 to 40 per cent fat
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• Pinch of salt
• ¼ tsp cinnamon powder
• ¼ cup raisins
• ¼ cup chopped almonds
• ¼ cup chopped pistachios
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 180°C.
• Cut the croissants into bite-sized pieces and toast them in the tawa or oven. Spread them evenly in a baking dish.
• Sprinkle half of the chopped nuts and raisins evenly over the top.
• In a saucepan, heat the milk, whipping cream, condensed milk, butter, salt, and cinnamon over medium heat until the milk is warm. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Pour the warm milk mixture over the croissant pieces in the baking dish, ensuring that all the pastry is soaked.
• Sprinkle the remaining chopped nuts and raisins evenly over the milk mixture.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Before serving, sprinkle additional chopped nuts over each portion for added crunch and nuttiness. This enhances the texture of Umm Ali.
• Serve it warm or cold.

Notes