The Comfort Dessert Served Warm and Golden

Umm Ali is one of those desserts that feels luxurious but deeply comforting at the same time.

Creamy milk soaked into flaky layers.
Golden toasted nuts on top.
Soft raisins inside.
A warm spoonful that melts instantly.

Traditionally made with puff pastry, this version uses croissants — which makes it:

• Richer
• Buttery
• Faster
• Easier
• Perfect for guests

It pairs beautifully after rice dishes like Lamb Mandi.

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Table of Contents

• What Is Umm Ali?
• Why This Recipe Works
• Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Texture
• Variations
• Storage
• Nutrition

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What Is Umm Ali?

Umm Ali is a classic Middle Eastern milk pudding made with layered pastry soaked in sweet milk and baked until golden.

It’s similar to bread pudding — but lighter and more aromatic.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Croissants add natural butter flavor
• Warm milk mixture soaks perfectly
• Baking creates golden top
• Nuts add crunch
• Cream adds richness

The secret is pouring hot milk over the croissants before baking.

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Ingredients

• 5 large croissants (torn into pieces)
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup raisins
• ½ cup sliced almonds
• ¼ cup chopped pistachios

Optional:

• ¼ cup shredded coconut

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Croissants

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

Tear croissants into large chunks and place in baking dish.

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Step 2: Heat the Milk Mixture

In a saucepan, heat milk, cream and sugar until hot but not boiling.

Stir in vanilla and cinnamon.

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Step 3: Assemble

Pour the hot milk mixture evenly over the croissants.

Sprinkle raisins and nuts on top.

Let sit 5 minutes to absorb.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes until top is golden and bubbling.

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Step 5: Serve

Serve warm.

Optional: drizzle extra cream on top before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Texture

• Use slightly stale croissants
• Do not overbake (center should stay soft)
• Let rest 5 minutes before serving
• Add extra cream for richer texture

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Variations

Extra Creamy Version

Add ½ cup condensed milk to milk mixture.

Chocolate Version

Add chocolate chips.

Nut-Free Version

Skip nuts and add coconut only.

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Storage

Fridge: up to 3 days
Reheat gently in oven
Not ideal for freezing

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Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)

Calories: 480
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 28g
Protein: 9g