Aish El Saraya
Aish El Saraya is a no-bake Middle Eastern dessert made with layers of toasted bread soaked in simple syrup and topped with a rich, creamy ashta. Garnished with crushed pistachios and rose petals, it’s a light and indulgent treat that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Simple Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon orange blossom water
Ashta cream
- 2 cups whipping cream
- 2 cups full fat milk
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 7 tablespoons corn starch
- 1 teaspoon orange blossom water
- 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
Topping
- crushed pistachios or any kind of nuts that you like
- rose petals
Instructions
- Cut the edges of the bread if you prefer it without edges, then place it in a baking dish and toast in the oven until golden at 350°F.
- While waiting for the bread, make the simple syrup by mixing sugar and water, bring to a boil, then add lemon juice and orange blossom water.
- Let it boil for another 2 to 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Take the toasted bread out of the oven, ensuring both sides are golden. Pour all the simple syrup on top, making sure all the bread is soaked.
- Begin making the ashta by mixing whipping cream, full-fat milk, sugar, cornstarch, and orange blossom water.
- Mix everything together until combined, then turn on the heat.
- Keep stirring until it thickens.
- Pour the ashta evenly on top of the bread.
- Sprinkle with crushed pistachios or any kind of nuts you like.
- Decorate with rose petals.
- Let it cool down completely.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 to 8 hours before serving or overnight.
- Using full-fat milk is recommended if you want that rich flavor in your dessert. You can use whipping cream instead of full-fat milk. So, instead of 2 cups whipping cream and 2 cups full-fat milk, use 4 cups whipping cream (IL).The bread can be toasted in the toaster, air fryer or oven.
Notes
- Perfect Toasting: For the best results, ensure the bread is toasted to a golden color on both sides. This helps it absorb the syrup evenly without becoming soggy. You can use an oven, toaster, or air fryer based on your preference.
- Even Syrup Distribution: Pour the syrup slowly and evenly over the toasted bread to ensure every piece is fully soaked. Use the back of a spoon to gently press the bread down if needed.
- Cream Consistency: Stir the ashta constantly while cooking to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, thick consistency. If lumps form, strain the mixture before spreading it on the dessert.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.
- Customizable Toppings: Crushed pistachios are traditional, but you can use almonds, walnuts, or even a mix of nuts. Toasting the nuts before garnishing enhances their flavor.
- Enhanced Fragrance: For a more aromatic dessert, slightly increase the amount of orange blossom water or rose water, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the flavors.
- Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect for preparing a day or two in advance, making it a stress-free option for gatherings or events.
- Richness Adjustment: For a richer ashta, substitute full-fat milk with additional whipping cream. This will create an extra creamy and indulgent layer.