Generally, the ifṭār spread during Ramadan is a time for feasting and celebration. Gathering with family and friends to break the fast is an essential part of the tradition. And what’s a feast without dessert? The traditional desserts often feature a combination of sweet ingredients like honey, nuts, dried fruits, mild cheeses, spices, and light pastry. These flavors are carefully crafted to be light, aromatic, and utterly delicious, making them a perfect way to cap off a long day of fasting.
Whether you’re observing Ramadan or just looking for a new dessert inspiration, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Pistachio Baklava
Few things in life are as delightful as the classic Turkish pistachio baklava. I’m not exaggerating when I say this recipe is one of the best I’ve ever had, and I have no doubt you’ll fall head over heels for it too. One of the key reasons why this baklava stands out from the rest is its impressive layering – a staggering 30 layers of crispy phyllo dough to be exact. Each bite is like walking through a crunchy autumn forest, with every flaky layer melting in your mouth perfectly.
The addition of crunchy pistachios adds an extra textural element that complements the sweetness of the phyllo beautifully. But what takes it to the next level is the drizzle of sweet orange blossom syrup over everything – trust me, it’s heavenly! This Turkish delight (not to be confused with the actual confectionery) is a true representation of traditional Turkish cuisine, and I’m excited for you to try it out!
Stuffed Dates- 2 Ways
Knowing that dates are a great source of sugar and fiber, it’s no surprise that they’re often the first thing on the menu during ifṭār. Not only do they provide a much-needed energy boost after a day of fasting, but they also offer a delicious and healthy way to raise your blood sugar levels.
This recipe is all about elevating dates to new heights by pairing them with Nutella and pistachios in one option, or peanut butter and almonds in the other – although feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations! As someone who’s particularly fond of peanut butter-stuffed dates dipped in chocolate, I can attest that they make for a taste experience that’s surprisingly reminiscent of a Snickers bar.
Balushahi
Beyond the realm of traditional doughnuts lies a fascinating Indian delicacy – Balushahi. This fried dough treat may not resemble doughnuts in appearance or taste, but its allure is undeniable. The method of preparation involves soaking the Balushahi in warm sugar syrup while flipping occasionally to ensure an even coating. As it cools, the syrup solidifies into a sugary crust that’s both soft and flaky, making it irresistibly sweet.
Turkish Delight
Taking center stage in the world of confectionery is Turkish Delight, a candy that has won the hearts of millions globally. Its unique blend of floral, sweet, and nutty flavors makes it an irresistible treat for many. Typically made with traditional ingredients such as rosewater, orange blossom water, and finely chopped pistachios, these delicate gummies are a masterclass in subtlety.
Halawa (Halva) Truffles
Often regarded as a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, these Halawa truffles embody the perfect blend of nutty and sweet flavors. Outlined below is a recipe for three distinct variations: pistachio, chocolate, and sesame. Interestingly, despite their differences, each type relies on a shared dough consisting of tahini, powdered sugar, and powdered milk.
The chocolate variety stands out by incorporating additional layers of flavor – the dough is mixed with chocolate shavings and then further coated in a rich chocolate glaze. Meanwhile, the pistachio and sesame truffles adopt a more minimalist approach, with only their respective toppings providing added texture and taste.
Tahini Halva
You might be surprised to know that halva has a similar texture to nougat candy, which is why fans of the sweet treat will likely fall in love with this Middle Eastern delight. The process begins by cooking honey until it reaches a caramelly consistency, reminiscent of melted caramel, but still maintaining its smooth and silky texture. Once cooled, tahini and nuts are expertly mixed into the mixture, creating a sweet and nutty flavor combination that is nothing short of irresistible.
What’s more, halva’s versatility allows for endless customization options – feel free to add extracts, try out different types of nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate to create your perfect blend.
Lebanese Nights Desserts
Wrapped in a delicate balance of Middle Eastern flavors, this pudding is an instant passport to Lebanon. Its luscious and creamy texture is expertly enhanced by an orange blossom and semolina pudding base. The addition of ashta (clotted cream) and whipped cream on top takes it to the next level, creating a truly tantalizing experience. If concerns about the richness arise, rest assured that fresh pistachios provide a fabulous crunch at the finish.
To complete this culinary journey, serve with traditional floral sugar syrup, adding an extra layer of depth and ah-mazing flavor.
Ghraybeh (Ghorayeba)
Adding a twist to traditional holiday baking, these Middle Eastern shortbread cookies are sure to captivate anyone who tries them. Whether you’re looking for a variation on the classic Danish butter cookie or seeking something entirely new, this recipe is likely to win over even the most discerning palates. With their perfect balance of crunchy texture and sweet, buttery flavor, it’s no wonder these cookies have the potential to become your new Christmas tradition.
Maamoul
Make no mistake, this recipe for butter cookies will become your new favorite treat. The combination of a crunchy exterior and a soft, chewy interior is perfectly balanced, while the subtle hint of rosewater adds an extra layer of depth to each bite. But what really sets these cookies apart is their unique filling – a sweet date puree that’s reminiscent of a Fig Newton.
Halawet el Jibn (Sweet Cheese Rolls)
Keen on trying new desserts without being overwhelmed by excessive sweetness? These Halawet el Jibn are an excellent choice. Even those who typically prefer super sugary treats will likely appreciate their unique flavor profile. What sets them apart is the generous use of dairy, making them rich and indulgent. The dough itself combines semolina with mozzarella cheese for a distinct texture, while being filled with clotted cream takes it to a new level.
Before serving, sprinkle chopped pistachios on top and finish it off with a drizzle of sugar syrup.
Egyptian Feteer Meshaltelt
Traversing the culinary landscape of Middle Eastern cuisine brings to mind a delightful pastry that bears striking resemblance to a crusty crepe cake – Feteer Meshaltelt.
Qatayef with Nuts
Wrapped in a thin layer of dough, Qatayef is a culinary delight often saved for the holy month of Ramadan but truly enjoyed throughout the year. When cooked, these pastry pockets resemble pancakes, only to transform into savory or sweet treats akin to empanadas or samosas once filled with an array of ingredients. This particular recipe showcases a delightful balance between nutty and sticky flavors.
The filling is generously studded with raisins and nuts, then briefly fried before being drenched in a rich sugar syrup that brings out the full depth of its flavors.
Lebanese Rice Pudding (Riz Bi Haleeb)
My weakness for rice pudding knows no bounds, whether it’s served warm, chilled, or infused with spices, and this Lebanese rendition consistently ranks high on my list. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness are perfectly balanced by the delicate hint of orange blossom flavor, making it a delightful treat after a day of fasting.
Usbu al Zainab (Crunchy Cheese Fingers)
Balah El Sham (Fluted Fritters)
Savoring the flavors of the Middle East, these indulgent treats, known as little fritters, are essentially the region’s answer to churros. While they boast a significantly puffier texture than their Spanish counterparts, they’re still smothered in an abundance of sweet vanilla syrup, making them just as delightful and addictive.
Lokma (Luqmat el-Qadi)
Recently, a lesser-known Turkish delight has been making waves among sweet-tooths: lokmas. These bite-sized treats share some similarities with beignets, such as being made from leavened dough that’s fried to a golden crisp. However, one key difference is the absence of enriched ingredients like eggs and dairy products, making them a more inclusive option for those with dietary restrictions.
Similar to other types of fried dough, lokmas are typically drizzled in a sweet syrup infused with flavors like lemon, rosewater, and saffron, adding an extra layer of depth to these crispy delights.
Aish El Saraya
Elevating the humble bread crust to new heights, the Aish el Saraya boasts a crunchy yet sweet base made from toasted bread crumbs that have been soaked in traditional sugar syrup. This indulgent start sets the tone for the rest of the dish, which is elevated by the delicate nuances of orange blossom and rosewater-flavored clotted cream that sits atop. The combination results in a culinary experience that is fragrant, floral, and perfectly balanced in flavor and texture.
Osmaliyi Dessert
Zestfully combining traditional and modern flavors, Osmaliyi consists of golden, crispy, shredded phyllo dough and layers of rich ashta cream. The dessert is then carefully baked to perfection and topped with a drizzle of deliciously sweet simple syrup, resulting in a buttery, flaky, luscious treat that everyone will adore.
Knafeh Na’ameh
Keen cheese enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike will appreciate this knafeh na’ameh treat. Its unique texture combines melt-in-your-mouth cheesy goodness with a crispy, buttery top that gives way to the sweet indulgence of floral sugar syrup.
Basbousa (Semolina Cake)
Just as traditional Egyptian cuisine shines in its simplicity, Basbousa is a prime example of this principle. The cake’s unique texture, with its softness, butteriness, nuttiness, and tropical flavors, is sure to tantalize the taste buds. Notes of coconut, honey, lemon, and vanilla add depth and freshness, making it a perfect conclusion to an ifṭār feast. The subtle interplay of these ingredients creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Om Ali (Egyptian Bread Pudding)
Focusing on traditional desserts, Om Ali has been a popular treat for centuries, dating back to the 13th century. This classic dessert bears similarities to bread pudding, but our recipe offers a modern twist by incorporating Palmiers – small, caramelized cookies with a distinctive heart-like appearance that add depth and texture to the dish.
The result is a creamy, sweet concoction topped with a crunchy cinnamony crust made from these delightful cookies, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
Lebanese Baklava
Wrapped in the classic tenets of great baklava, this fantastic recipe boasts an extraordinary number of layers made from flaky phyllo dough, carefully interwoven with a delightful mixture of nuts and sweetly infused simple syrup. While this particular version calls upon walnuts, ghee, and the subtle nuance of orange blossom syrup, feel free to experiment with alternative flavors – pistachios are often my go-to choice for their vibrant hue.
Falooda Ice Cream
You may be wondering what Falooda is, but trust us, it’s a game-changer! This layered dessert drink is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted before. Imagine a cross between a milkshake and a trifle, with bold and distinctive flavors that will leave you wanting more. Just like a milkshake, Falooda is cold and made with ice cream, but what sets it apart is the addition of layers of tasty treats to eat, similar to a trifle.
Think rose syrup, sweet seeds, crunchy vermicelli, creamy jello, nuts, dried fruit, all perfectly combined with scoops of chilled ice cream in each mouthful – every bite is an explosion of flavors and textures that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Cornes de Gazelle (Gazelle Horns)
Making Cornes de Gazelle, a traditional Moroccan pastry, requires a combination of traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. These sweet pastries are renowned for their distinctive crescent shape and delicate flavors. A key component of the Cornes de Gazelle is the homemade almond paste filling, which is made with fresh almonds, orange blossom water, and a touch of honey to bring out the natural sweetness of the almonds.
The marzipan adds an extra layer of complexity and depth to the filling. While the process of making Cornes de Gazelle can be time-consuming, it’s definitely worth the effort as the end result is a truly delightful and unique treat.
Mango Pudding
Make the most of summer’s vibrant flavors by indulging in this mouth-watering mango pudding, a symphony of sweet and exotic tastes that will transport your senses to a tropical paradise. Mango puree and coconut milk harmoniously blend together on the palate, a delightful combination that is sure to tantalize your taste buds with every spoonful. If you’re a fan of tropical fruit, this pudding is a must-try, as it perfectly captures the essence of summer in every bite.
Serve it chilled, garnished with fresh mango slices, a dollop of coconut cream, and a sprig of mint for an authentic touch.
25 Best Ramadan Dessert Recipe Collection
Freshen up your ifṭār spread with a variety of mouth-watering Ramadan desserts that are both healthy and indulgent. From classic baklava to creative fruit-based treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the holy month of Ramadan, whether you’re observing the fast or not.
Instructions
Finding the perfect recipe for your meal is only half the battle. Once you have chosen your dish, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure that everything goes smoothly during preparation.
