Om Ali
Om Ali is a rich and decadent Egyptian bread pudding, often considered the national dessert. It features layers of flaky pastry, dried fruits, nuts, and shredded coconut, all baked in a creamy, sweet milk mixture until golden and bubbling.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Puff pastry or day-old croissants(Using day-old croissants or puff pastry that has been baked until golden and slightly crisp will yield the best texture. If using raw puff pastry, bake it first.)
- 1 L Whole milk(Whole milk provides the richest flavor and creamiest texture.)
- 150 g Granulated sugar(Adjust sugar to your preference. You can also use a mix of sugar and a sweetener like honey or agave.)
- 150 g Mixed nuts(A good combination includes almonds, pistachios, walnuts, and cashews. Roughly chop them.)
- 50 g Raisins(Golden or dark raisins work well. You can soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up if desired.)
- 50 g Shredded unsweetened coconut(Sweetened coconut can also be used, but you may want to reduce the sugar in the milk mixture.)
- 100 ml Heavy cream (optional, for richness)(For an extra decadent Om Ali, swirl in some heavy cream before baking.)
- 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon (optional)(A pinch of cinnamon adds a warm spice note.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the pastry base: If using raw puff pastry, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the puff pastry according to package directions until golden brown and puffed. If using day-old croissants or pre-baked puff pastry, break or cut it into bite-sized pieces. Place the pastry pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast lightly in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until slightly crisp. Let cool slightly, then transfer to a large baking dish (approximately 20x30 cm or 8x12 inches).
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 2
Combine dry ingredients: In a bowl, mix the chopped nuts, raisins, and shredded coconut. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pastry pieces in the baking dish.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Infuse the milk: In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and optional cinnamon. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the milk is steaming but not boiling. You should see small bubbles forming around the edges. Remove from heat.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Assemble and bake: Carefully and evenly pour the hot milk mixture over the pastry, nuts, raisins, and coconut in the baking dish. Gently press down with a spoon to ensure all the pastry is submerged in the milk. If using, drizzle the heavy cream over the top in a swirling pattern. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the pastry to absorb some liquid.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Bake until golden and bubbly: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the milk mixture is bubbling around the edges. The pastry should be soft and infused with the creamy milk.
⏱️ 30-35 minutes - 6
Rest and serve: Remove the Om Ali from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the pudding to set slightly and the flavors to meld. Serve warm.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Serve hot or warm for the best experience.
- ✓Om Ali is often referred to as the 'Queen's Dessert' or named after an Egyptian queen, symbolizing its regal status.
- ✓The contrast between the creamy, soft pudding and the slightly crunchy nuts and flaky pastry is key to its deliciousness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a swirl of heavy cream or clotted cream on top before baking for extra richness.
- Increase the quantity or variety of nuts for a nuttier flavor and texture.
- Incorporate other dried fruits like apricots or dates.
- Add a teaspoon of rose water or orange blossom water to the milk mixture for an aromatic twist.