10 Traditional Lebanese Desserts

When it comes to Asian food, Lebanese dishes often get overlooked here in the U.S. But just because they’re not as famous as Chinese, Japanese, or India cuisine doesn’t mean they’re any less delicious.

Lebanon has its own amazing flavors that are definitely worth exploring!

1.Znoud El Sit

Imagine a dessert that brings together the best of cannoli, crepes, and baklava. It might sound like an unusual mix, but trust us, it’s a game-changer!

The combination is unexpected, but the result is nothing short of amazing. Plus, that crunchy exterior? Absolutely delightful. The best part? It doesn’t take long to make.

Sure, getting it just right might take a try or two, but here’s the thing: even if they don’t turn out perfectly, they’ll still taste incredible. So don’t stress if they’re not picture-perfect–just enjoy the process (and the extras)!

It’s quick, it’s unique, and it’s full of flavor. Give it a shot and see why this surprising mix is a must-try!

2.Aish el Saraya Recipe (Lebanese Bread Pudding)

This bread pudding is a game-changer! Made with rusks–a type of hard, dry, sweet bread–it’s soaked in a fragrant syrup made from rose water, orange zest, and lemon juice.

Then, it’s layered again for extra flavor. The next layer is a thick, creamy custard that’s irresistibly delicious. After chilling, it’s light, cool, and refreshing, kinda like a cream puff or whipped pound cake.

Top it with chopped pistachios for a nutty crunch, and you’ve got a dessert that’s as unique as it is tasty.

3.Sfouf

Looking for a quick and easy dessert? This moist and fluffy cake is ready in just 15 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking. With fewer than 10 ingredients, it’s a breeze to whip up.

It’s sweet, nutty, and incredibly moist–perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without any fuss. Plus, it’s egg-free, making it a great option for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions.

It’s the ideal light treat after a big, heavy dinner–so go ahead and indulge without the guilt!

4.Kanafeh

Kanafeh is a show-stopping Lebanese dessert that’s as eye-catching as it is aromatic. This sweet treat is a masterpiece of Middle Eastern desserts, with its unique appearance and irresistible fragrance.

While some ingredients might be tricky to find at your local grocery store, they’re often available at Asian markets or online–so it’s worth the extra effort to track them down.

Trust us, using the right ingredients is key to getting that authentic Kanafeh look and flavor, so don’t skip out on them!

5.Halawet El Jibn (Sweet Cheese Dessert)

Imagine a dessert so divine, it’s practically irresistible. These little treats are small, pillowy cubes of sweet cheese that are about to steal the spotlight.

Each one is stuffed with clotted cream, then topped with crushed pistachios and a drizzle of sweet rose petal jam. But wait, there’s more–finish them off with a sugary syrup made from rose and orange blossom water, and you’ve got a flavor combination that’s pure magic.

These bites are so scrumptious, you’ll want to make a double batch because one batch just won’t cut it!

6.Maamoul

Looking for a dessert that’s both delicious and gentle on your sugar levels? Meet these Arabian date-filled cookies, or maamoul! They take a bit of time to make, but you’ll get 20 cookies out of the deal.

Plus, they stay fresh for weeks–no need to rush enjoying them! These soft, chewy cookies are filled with sweet date goodness and finished with a light coating of powdered sugar.

They’re packed with so much flavor, you’d never guess they’re low in sugar!

7.Lebanese Baklava

No worries, though–Lebanon’s baklava is just as legendary! Sure, shaabiyat is amazing, but for some folks, nothing beats the classic baklava we all know and love.

If you ask me, both are irresistible, but there’s something special about that traditional baklava. It’s the same delightful treat you’ve come to love–layers of flaky phyllo dough, crunchy crushed pistachios, and that sweet, homemade syrup infused with rosewater.

And let’s be honest, no matter how many times you’ve had it, there’s never a bad moment to savor a piece (or two) of baklava.

8.Layali Lubnan

Don’t let its humble appearance fool you–this dessert is a real treat! While the green hue from the pistachios and syrup might look a bit odd, the flavor is absolutely delightful.

It’s a breeze to make, requiring just 20 minutes of prep time, though you’ll need to let it chill for a couple of hours before serving. The base is a creamy semolina pudding, topped with a rich, silky ashta (think of it as a Middle Eastern version of whipped cream).

Finish it off with crushed pistachios and a drizzle of orange blossom water-infused sugar syrup for a burst of flavor and aroma. It might not be the prettiest dessert on the table, but trust us, the scent and taste are out of this world!

9.Nammoura (Semolina Cake)

Imagine a dessert that’s like cornbread but way sweeter–welcome to the world of Nammoura! This sweet cake has a texture similar to cornbread, but it’s so much sweeter, even before you drizzle it with a sugar and rosewater syrup (or honey, if you prefer).

Made with familiar ingredients like semolina and a hint of rose water, this cake is a game-changer. The combination of rose water, coconut, vanilla extract, and a touch of crunch from almonds creates a flavor profile that’s absolutely divine.

The crumbly texture might feel a little unusual at first, but trust us, it’s a good kind of unexpected. And let’s be honest, once you take a bite, you’ll forget all about the texture because the taste is just that good.

So go ahead, pour that syrup over the top, and get ready to fall in love with this sweet, sweet treat.

10.Shaabiyat

If you love Baklava, you’re in for a treat with Shaabiyat! Both desserts share the same crispy, flaky phyllo dough and that irresistible buttery, syrupy goodness.

The twist? Shaabiyat swaps the pistachios for a creamy, cheesy filling that’s just the right amount of sweet. Plus, with hints of rose and orange blossom water, this layered delight smells as amazing as it tastes.

It’s a must-try for anyone who loves a good dessert!