🇪🇬 Egypt · Dessert

Umm Ali

60 min
A great way to spend your free time
🔥 450 kcal
Hearty helping
🍽 8 servings
Feeds a crowd

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Umm Ali🇪🇬 EG

A comforting Egyptian bread pudding featuring crispy, buttery pastry soaked in sweetened, vanilla-scented milk. This classic dessert is topped with toasted nuts for a perfect crunch.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Preheat your oven to 180°C and tear the filo pastry into small pieces.

  • 2

    Spread the pastry on a tray and bake for 10 minutes until golden brown.

  • 3

    In a saucepan, bring the milk, cream, and sugar to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.

  • 4

    Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

  • 5

    Place the baked pastry in a deep ceramic dish and sprinkle with half the pistachios.

  • 6

    Pour the hot milk mixture over the pastry until fully submerged.

  • 7

    Bake for another 10 minutes until the top is bubbling and slightly golden.

  • 8

    Remove from oven, garnish with remaining nuts, and serve immediately while warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use puff pastry instead of filo?+

Yes, puff pastry is a popular alternative that provides a richer, flakier texture.

How do I know when it is done?+

The top should look golden and the milk should be mostly absorbed by the pastry layers.

Can I add dried fruit?+

Yes, raisins or coconut shavings are traditional additions to enhance the sweetness.

Is it better served cold or warm?+

Umm Ali is traditionally enjoyed warm to keep the pastry layers delicate and creamy.

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