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Umm Ali (Egyptian Bread Pudding)

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Umm Ali is a classic Egyptian bread pudding made with baked puff pastry soaked in a rich milk and cream mixture, layered with nuts, raisins, and coconut, then baked until golden and bubbly. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for gatherings.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Egyptian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 package puff pastry (400 g, about 15 squares)
  • 1.5 liters whole milk (2% or 3%)
  • 473 mL whipping cream (35%)
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (300 mL)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 g)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 can table cream or ashta (170 g)
  • 1 cup almonds (110 g)
  • 1 cup pistachios (130 g)
  • 1 cup raisins (150 g)
  • ½ cup shredded coconut (80 g)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake puff pastry squares on a baking sheet until golden and crispy (15–20 minutes). Cool slightly and break into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a saucepan, combine milk, whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom. Heat until just boiling, then remove from heat.
  4. Arrange broken puff pastry pieces in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle most of the almonds, pistachios, and coconut over the pastry, reserving some for garnish.
  6. Pour the hot milk mixture evenly over the pastry and nuts.
  7. Spoon table cream or ashta over the top in dollops and smooth gently.
  8. Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbling. In the final 5–10 minutes, broil until the top is golden. Add raisins a few minutes before removing from the oven to toast lightly.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with remaining nuts and coconut.

Notes

  • Puff pastry can be substituted with stale croissants for a richer version.
  • Add rose water or orange blossom water for a floral twist.
  • Can be made ahead by prepping components separately and assembling just before baking.
  • Serve warm for best texture; some milk at the bottom is normal.
  • Reheat in the oven for best results—avoid microwaving to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/umm-ali-egyptian-bread-pudding/