Dessert

Om Ali – Egyptian Bread Pudding Recipe

Name: Om Ali – Egyptian Bread Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Egyptian
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry; 4 thin slices of butter; 5 cups milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 5 tablespoons white sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons raisins; 1 tablespoon walnuts; 1 tablespoon almonds; 1 tablespoon pistachios; 2 tablespoons shredded coconut

Bylina Carter February 5, 2026February 5, 2026

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Introduction

Om Ali is a beloved Egyptian dessert that brings together crispy puff pastry, creamy milk, and crunchy nuts in a warm, comforting bread pudding. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for sharing and is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings.

The image shows a close-up view of a creamy baked dish in a clear round glass bowl. The top layer is golden brown with a slightly crunchy texture, dotted with small dark raisins and light brown nuts scattered unevenly. Underneath, the creamy white layer is smooth and thick, visible where a spoon is scooping some out from the side. The spoon has a shiny silver handle resting inside the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry
5 cups milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 tablespoons white sugar

2 tablespoons raisins
1 tablespoon walnuts

1 tablespoon almonds
1 tablespoon pistachios
2 tablespoons shredded coconut

1 cup heavy cream
4 thin slices butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the puff pastry sheet for 5-8 minutes on each side or until it turns golden brown.

Step 2: Allow the pastry to cool for 15 minutes, then break it into medium-sized pieces. Place these pieces in an ovenproof dish and sprinkle with raisins, walnuts, almonds, pistachios, and shredded coconut.
Step 3: In a saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over high heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil and the sugar dissolves.
Step 4: Pour the hot milk mixture over the pastry and nuts in the dish. Arrange the butter slices evenly on top.

Step 5: Let the mixture sit for 30-40 minutes to allow the pastry to absorb the milk.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top develops a beautiful golden color.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, toast the nuts slightly before adding them to the dish.

Substitute puff pastry with croissant dough for a flakier texture.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the milk mixture for a warm spice note.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Om Ali is best enjoyed warm for the perfect texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows three white bowls filled with a creamy dish that has a slightly golden top layer, likely from baking. The dish has a thick white creamy base visible beneath a browned, bubbly surface. On top, there are scattered nuts including green pistachios and brown almonds, adding texture and color contrast. Behind the bowls, there is a clear glass baking dish with the same baked creamy dish visible, showing a slightly browned crust and some nuts inside. The setup is on a white marbled surface with a white cloth featuring thin blue stripes partially under the dishes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pastry?

Yes, while puff pastry is traditional for its flakiness, you can use croissant dough or even brioche bread for a different texture and flavor.

Is it possible to make Om Ali vegan?

You can make a vegan version by substituting milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream. Use dairy-free butter or margarine as well.