The sweet and indulgent world of Middle Eastern desserts is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and aromas. From the crispy, nutty pastry of baklava to the creamy, syrupy delights of kunafa, each region in this vast and vibrant cultural landscape has its own unique take on the art of dessert-making. In this article, we’ll embark on a culinary journey through 20 exquisite Middle Eastern desserts that will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From classic treats like ma’amoul and qatayef to innovative creations like halva with tahini and almonds, these sweet indulgences are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire your own baking adventures.
Baklava with Pistachios and Honey
This classic Middle Eastern dessert is a sweet and crunchy delight, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. Our recipe combines layers of flaky phyllo, crunchy pistachios, and a drizzle of golden honey for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Layer phyllo dough, brushing with some of the melted butter and sprinkling with pistachios, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom.
3. Roll up the phyllo layers and cut into 1-inch thick slices.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with honey while still warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kunafa with Cream and Rose Syrup
Experience the sweet and creamy delight of Kunafa, a Middle Eastern dessert, with an added twist of rose syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Kunafa dough (available at Middle Eastern grocery stores or online)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons rose syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Bring the Kunafa dough to room temperature.
2. In a large pot, combine the water and oil. Heat over medium heat until the mixture simmers.
3. Gradually add the Kunafa dough, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth paste.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
6. Pour the Kunafa mixture into a shallow dish or individual serving cups.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the mixture to set.
8. Just before serving, drizzle with rose syrup and top with whipped cream.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including preparation time)
Basbousa with Coconut and Yogurt
Basbousa is a traditional Middle Eastern semolina cake, typically flavored with cardamom and topped with a sweet syrup. This variation adds the creaminess of yogurt and the richness of coconut to create a unique and delicious twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine semolina flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add shredded coconut, yogurt, beaten egg, and vegetable oil. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ma’amoul with Dates and Walnuts
Ma’amoul with Dates and Walnuts: A Delicious Middle Eastern Treat
This classic Levantine cookie-like pastry is filled with sweet dates and crunchy walnuts, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With its soft, delicate texture and flavorful filling, Ma’amoul is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup rose water (optional)
– Filling: 1 cup chopped dates, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
6. Flatten each ball slightly and place a spoonful of date-walnut filling in the center.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or an oval shape, pressing edges together.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Qatayef with Ashta and Orange Blossom
This traditional Middle Eastern dessert consists of crispy fried dough balls filled with sweet ashta cream, topped with a drizzle of fragrant orange blossom syrup. This delightful treat is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup warm milk
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Orange blossom syrup (store-bought or homemade)
Filling:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm milk to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls. Flatten each ball slightly.
5. Fry in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and fill with ashta cream (see filling ingredients).
7. Drizzle with orange blossom syrup before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halva with Tahini and Almonds
This creamy halva recipe combines the rich flavors of tahini and almonds, creating a deliciously nutty and smooth dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tahini
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the tahini, sugar, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns creamy, about 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the sliced almonds. Let cool to room temperature.
3. If desired, add rose water and mix well.
4. Transfer the halva to a serving dish or individual cups. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Umm Ali with Puff Pastry and Raisins
This rich and indulgent dessert is a twist on the traditional Umm Ali, substituting puff pastry for the traditional milk-based custard. The combination of flaky pastry, sweet raisins, and creamy nuts creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds or pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread raisins and chopped nuts evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Atayef with Cheese and Pistachios
Atayef, also known as stuffed dumplings, are a popular treat in Middle Eastern cuisine. This recipe gives the classic version a delicious twist by adding melted cheese and crunchy pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
+ 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
3. Place a spoonful of feta cheese in the center of each disk, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle with parsley and pistachios.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal.
5. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry Atayef for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Luqaimat with Date Syrup and Sesame
Luqaimat are traditional Middle Eastern dumplings that typically filled with sweet or savory ingredients. This recipe takes a unique approach by combining the classic filling of dates, nuts, and spices with the richness of sesame seeds and date syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 cup chopped dates
+ 1/2 cup chopped almonds
+ 1 tablespoon rose water
+ 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
+ Pinch of ground cinnamon and cardamom each
– Date syrup for serving
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add ghee or oil and lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
6. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center, fold, and press edges together.
7. Fry the luqaimat in hot oil until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with date syrup and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Namoura with Semolina and Lemon Syrup
Namoura with Semolina and Lemon Syrup Recipe
A traditional Lebanese dessert, Namoura is a sweet and creamy semolina pudding flavored with the brightness of lemon syrup.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup semolina flour
• 3 cups water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup lemon syrup (see below)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Lemon Syrup:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• Juice of 2 lemons
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine semolina flour and salt. Gradually add in the water, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until dissolved.
4. Pour in lemon syrup and stir gently to combine.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Note: You can adjust the amount of lemon syrup to your taste. Traditionally, Namoura is served warm or at room temperature.
Znoud El Sit with Clotted Cream and Sugar Syrup
Znoud El Sit is a popular Lebanese dessert made from crispy phyllo pastry filled with creamy cheese. This recipe elevates the classic to new heights by adding clotted cream and sugar syrup for an added layer of richness and sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup grated Akkawi or ricotta cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup clotted cream
– Sugar syrup (recipe below)
Sugar Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough and cut into desired shapes.
3. Mix cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto each phyllo shape, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold phyllo into triangles or squares to enclose filling.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with clotted cream and drizzle with sugar syrup.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ghraybeh with Butter and Powdered Sugar
A classic Middle Eastern treat, Ghraybeh (also known as Ma’amoul) is a sweet cookie-like pastry filled with a rich butter and powdered sugar mixture. This recipe brings together the traditional flavors of Lebanon and Syria in a simple and delicious way.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
4. Add the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., hearts, stars).
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Harissa with Semolina and Coconut
This North African-inspired condiment combines the nutty flavor of semolina with the heat of harissa and the creaminess of coconut. Perfect for adding a kick to your favorite dishes, from couscous to grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon harissa paste
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together semolina, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Remove from the oven and stir in harissa paste.
5. Fold in shredded coconut.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Karabij with Mastic and Orange Blossom Water
These delicate Greek cookies are infused with the unique flavors of mastic and orange blossom water, creating a sweet and aromatic treat. Perfect for a special occasion or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground mastic
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, mastic, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and orange blossom water to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles or squares).
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if using). Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Awamat with Cardamom and Honey
Experience the sweet and aromatic flavors of Awamat, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert, infused with the warmth of cardamom and the sweetness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Awamat (or semolina flour)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine Awamat, sugar, and ground cardamom.
2. Gradually add in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth custard-like consistency (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in honey until well combined.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: Warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
Balouza with Rose Water and Almonds
This classic Middle Eastern dessert is elevated by the addition of rose water and crunchy almonds, creating a delightful sweet treat perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup balouza (shredded phyllo)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup rose water
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together balouza, sugar, and rose water until well combined.
3. Stir in melted butter and salt until the mixture is smooth.
4. Fold in chopped almonds.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Layali Lubnan with Cream and Pistachios
Experience the richness of Lebanon’s traditional dessert, Layali Lubnan, elevated by the creamy goodness of whipped cream and crunchy pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup short-grain rice
– 3 cups water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and cook it in a medium saucepan with 3 cups of water, sugar, and salt until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the melted butter and let cool to room temperature.
4. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold the whipped cream into the cooled rice mixture until well combined.
6. Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of the creamy rice mixture.
7. Serve chilled, dusting with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including soaking time)
Qamar El Din with Apricot and Walnuts
This classic Middle Eastern dessert, Qamar El Din, combines sweet apricots and crunchy walnuts in a rich honey syrup. This version adds an extra layer of flavor and texture with the addition of toasted nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the apricots and soak them in boiling water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the apricots and toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, rose water (if using), cardamom, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the apricots and walnuts to the syrup and stir to coat.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the apricots are tender.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kleicha with Date Filling and Cinnamon
Kleicha are traditional Iraqi shortbread-like cookies that are typically filled with dates, nuts, or other sweet fillings. This recipe combines the classic flavors of dates and cinnamon to create a delicious and easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup date filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon date filling along one edge of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Sprinkle cinnamon over the filling.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges to seal.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shish Barak with Sweet Cheese and Honey
This sweet and savory dessert is a popular variation of the traditional Turkish dish, Shish Barak. Flaky phyllo dough wraps around a creamy filling of sweet cheese and honey, creating a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of sweet cheese (such as ricotta or mascarpone)
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together the sweet cheese, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Place one sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface and brush with melted butter.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto the center of the phyllo dough.
6. Fold the phyllo into triangles or squares, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and exotic flavors of Middle Eastern desserts with these 20 exquisite recipes. From classic treats like baklava and kunafa to creative twists on traditional favorites, this collection has something for every sweet tooth. Enjoy the combination of textures and flavors in basbousa with coconut and yogurt or qatayef with ashta and orange blossom. Discover new delights like halva with tahini and almonds or umm ali with puff pastry and raisins. These mouthwatering desserts are sure to transport you to the bustling bazaars of the Middle East.
Leave a Reply