Umm Ali
A rich and comforting Egyptian bread pudding, often called 'Mother of Ali's' dessert. This version uses puff pastry or croissants soaked in a sweet, creamy milk mixture, studded with nuts, raisins, and coconut, then baked to golden perfection.
🧂 Ingredients
- 400 g Puff pastry sheets or croissants
- 1 L Whole milk
- 200 ml Heavy cream
- 150 g Granulated sugar
- 100 g Mixed nuts
- 50 g Raisins
- 50 g Unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp Butter
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 2-liter (approx. 8x8 inch) baking dish with butter. If using puff pastry, unfold it and bake according to package directions until golden brown and puffed. If using croissants, tear them into bite-sized pieces. Once the pastry is baked, let it cool slightly, then crumble it into the prepared baking dish. If using croissants, arrange the torn pieces in the dish.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes (baking pastry) - 2
Evenly scatter the chopped mixed nuts, raisins, and shredded coconut over the crumbled pastry or croissant pieces in the baking dish.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is steaming but not boiling. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of cinnamon should be noticeable.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 4
Carefully and slowly pour the hot milk mixture evenly over the pastry and nut mixture in the baking dish. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure all pieces are submerged and soaking up the liquid. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the pastry/croissants to absorb the liquid.
⏱️ 5 minutes (soaking) - 5
Increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F). Place the baking dish on a baking sheet (to catch any potential spills). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, puffed, and the edges are bubbling. The surface should look creamy and inviting.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes - 6
Optional: For an extra caramelized and crispy top, you can briefly place the dish under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching very carefully to prevent burning. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
⏱️ 1-2 minutes (broiling, optional)
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The consistency should be creamy and moist, not dry. If it seems too dry after soaking, you can add a little more warm milk.
- ✓For a richer flavor, toast the nuts lightly before adding them to the dish.
- ✓Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a handful of chopped pistachios for a vibrant green color and distinct flavor.
- For an even sweeter and richer dessert, add a few tablespoons of condensed milk to the milk mixture.
- Incorporate other dried fruits like apricots or dates, chopped.