20 Best Middle Eastern Desserts

Ready for a change from the usual desserts? If you’re feeling like brownies, tiramisu, or jam tarts just aren’t hitting the spot anymore, it’s time to shake things up a bit. Let’s dive into some fresh dessert ideas that’ll bring the excitement back to your sweet treats!

1.Ghraybeh

Butter cookies are a global favorite, and in the Middle East, they’re lovingly known as ghraybeh. This recipe is a breeze to make with just three ingredients – perfect for those who want simplicity without sacrificing flavor.

Just mix, chill, shape, and bake. You’ll end up with a batch of warm, tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are as easy as they are delicious. No fuss, no muss, just pure buttery goodness fresh from your oven!

2.Umm Ali

Step into the warmth of the Middle East with Umm Ali, a cozy bread pudding-inspired dessert from Egypt. This comforting treat brings together puff pastry, almonds, coconut, and plump raisins for a delightful flavor experience.

Perfect for chilly nights, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as inviting as a hug in a bowl. Serve it warm and let the sweet, nutty, and slightly tropical notes transport you to a place of comfort and joy.

It’s the ultimate way to share a taste of Middle Eastern charm with family and friends.

3.Atayef

Pancakes aren’t just for breakfast, folks! When the craving strikes, treat yourself to something special with atayef, a delightful twist from Lebanon. These little pockets of joy are stuffed with creamy ricotta and sprinkled with crushed pistachios for a treat that’s as tasty as it is unique.

Perfect for any time of day, atayef brings a touch of Lebanese charm to your plate.

4.Kataifi

If you love baklava, you’ll adore kataifi! This sweet, flaky pastry is a favorite across Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. Imagine a delicate dough packed with nuts, spices, and a drizzle of honey syrup, creating a fragrant and irresistible dessert.

Each bite is a perfect mix of crunchy texture and sweet, spiced flavor. It’s like tasting the warmth of the Mediterranean in every piece!

5.Sahlab

Sahlab is a must-try Middle Eastern treat that’s as comforting as it gets. Imagine a rich, creamy drink served in a tall glass, kind of like a milkshake or sundae.

It’s made with sweetened milk infused with warm cinnamon and a hint of vanilla. The fun part? You get to top it with your favorites–crunchy nuts, shredded coconut, or plump raisins.

It’s a cozy, indulgent snack that feels like a big hug in a glass.

6.Chocolate Cardamon Halva

Chocolate and cardamom might just be your new favorite flavor duo. Together, they create a rich, dense tahini-based fudge that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Whether you’re a die-hard chocolate lover or just a dessert enthusiast, this treat is sure to hit the spot.

7.Baklava Cookies

Imagine the perfect mashup of two desserts in one–welcome to the world of baklava cookies! These bite-sized treats are nothing short of genius. Think buttery, nutty, and sweet all in one place.

The best part? They’re gluten-free, sugar-free, and low-carb, so you can indulge without the guilt. It’s a dessert game-changer for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Baklava cookies are here to prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for a healthier option. They’re the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth and stay on track with your goals.

8.Basbousa

Egypt brought us the pyramids, hieroglyphics, and a fascinating glimpse into ancient civilization. But let’s not forget it also gave us something equally special–basbousa.

This dessert is a super moist almond and coconut semolina cake, loaded with a sweet, sticky sauce and sprinkled with toasted coconut flakes. Every bite is a tender, flavorful treat that’s both nutty and tropical, making it a deliciously unique dessert experience.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/588775351279027841

9.Rice Pudding

Step aside, traditional rice pudding–this Middle Eastern twist is here to win you over. Gone are the days of bland, boring pudding. This ridiculously easy version adds a warm, aromatic spin with vanilla, cinnamon, and cloves, turning it into a flavorful treat you’ll actually crave.

Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this spiced rice pudding is a delicious change of pace.

10.Balah El Sham

Get ready to indulge in these utterly irresistible fritters! Crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside, they’re packed with sweet vanilla goodness.

Think of them as the Middle Eastern answer to churros–absolutely delightful! Serve them warm with a generous drizzle of syrup, and you’ve got yourself a treat that’s pure perfection.

11.Halva

When it comes to Middle Eastern desserts, halva is a must-talk-about treat. This classic fudge-like sesame cake is a beloved snack in the region. The best part? This three-ingredient vegan version is perfect for plant-based diets.

It skips the dairy and refined sugars, opting for maple syrup instead for a healthier touch. A simple, sweet, and satisfying option that’s as easy on the taste buds as it is on the conscience.

12.Turkish Delight

Turkish Delight is the classic Middle Eastern dessert everyone loves. This stunning pink treat is surprisingly easy to make and always impresses a crowd.

Perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or anytime you want to wow, it’s a show-stopping candy that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Chewy, fragrant, and full of flavor, Turkish Delight is a timeless favorite that’s sure to be the star of any gathering.

Plus, it makes a thoughtful gift or sweet treat any time of the year.

13.Kanafeh

Looking for a dessert that’s a little different? Kanafeh is a must-try! This Middle Eastern treat is a masterful mix of light, flaky pastry, gooey cheese, and sweet syrup.

Don’t let the idea of cheesy pastry throw you off–it’s a surprisingly perfect combo. While there are a few steps to make it, kanafeh is easier than you think.

The result? A delightful mix of crunchy pastry, creamy cheese, and drizzly syrup, all topped with a dollop of cream. One bite and you’ll be hooked!

14.Kahk

Celebrate Eid or any special occasion with these vibrant Middle Eastern-inspired cookies. They bring a taste of tradition and culture to your celebrations.

Made with pistachios, honey, sesame seeds, and cinnamon, these butter cookies are anything but ordinary. Each bite is a delightful mix of crunch and warmth, turning a simple treat into something truly special.

Perfect for gift-giving or enjoying with your morning coffee, these cookies are a flavorful way to mark any feast day.

15.Maamoul

Maamoul is a classic Middle Eastern dessert that’s both tasty and meaningful. Hailing from a region where dates are a staple–over 90% of the world’s dates are grown here–it’s no wonder they take center stage in this traditional treat.

Imagine turning luscious dates into a rich paste, then stuffing them inside tender cookies. The result? A sweet, chewy delight that’s as flavorful as it is iconic.

Whether you’re enjoying them during special occasions or just because, maamoul is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.

16.Persian Chickpea Cookies

Who says chickpeas are just for savory dishes? These clever cookies flip the script by using chickpea flour in the dough, infused with the sweetness of rosewater and the crunch of pistachios.

The result? A cookie that’s not only moist and flavorful but also packed with protein. It’s a sweet treat that’s as satisfying as it is inventive–perfect for anyone looking to mix things up and indulge their sweet tooth.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/516225176042009036

17.Bastani

Ice cream lovers, rejoice! Bastani is here to shake things up with its one-of-a-kind flavor. This icy treat is infused with the warmth of saffron and the delicate sweetness of rosewater, making it a truly unique dessert.

But that’s not all–Bastani is also made with cream and egg yolks, giving it a richer, creamier texture that’s way more satisfying than your average ice cream cone.

It’s the perfect blend of exotic flavors and velvety smoothness that will leave you craving more.

18.Pistachio Cookies

Craving cookies but don’t want to blow your diet? These gluten-free and sugar-free pistachio cookies are here to save the day. Packed with Middle Eastern flavors and made from almond flour, they cut the carbs without cutting the taste.

Perfect for anyone watching their sugar intake, these cookies let you indulge guilt-free. They’re a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with your health goals.

19.Lgeimat

These sweet fritters are pure dessert bliss, and they get even better with a Middle-Eastern twist! Infused with the warm, aromatic flavor of saffron and the spicy sweetness of cardamom, these fritters are a treat for the senses.

Drizzle them with a rich sugar syrup, and you’ve got a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is delicious. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth any time of day!

20.Stuffed Dates

Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy snack? Meet your new go-to: stuffed dates! 🍑✨ With just four ingredients, these babies are a breeze to make.

Stuff dates with crunchy walnuts, aromatic cardamom, and sweet shredded coconut for a treat that’s as satisfying as it is healthy. Perfect for when you need something fast or want to meal prep.

Plus, they’re great as a gift or snack on the go! So simple, so tasty, and ready in no time. Enjoy them anytime for a quick pick-me-up!

20 Best Middle Eastern Desserts

Recipe by Mohamed ShiliCourse: DessertsCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Ready for a change from the usual desserts? If you’re feeling like brownies, tiramisu, or jam tarts just aren’t hitting the spot anymore, it’s time to shake things up a bit. Let’s dive into some fresh dessert ideas that’ll bring the excitement back to your sweet treats!

Ingredients

  • Ghraybeh

  • Umm Ali

  • Atayef

  • Kataifi

  • Sahlab

  • Chocolate Cardamon Halva

  • Baklava Cookies

  • Basbousa

  • Rice Pudding

  • Balah El Sham

  • Halva

  • Turkish Delight

  • Kanafeh

  • Kahk

  • Maamoul

  • Persian Chickpea Cookies

  • Bastani

  • Pistachio Cookies

  • Lgeimat

  • Stuffed Dates

Directions

  • Select your favorite recipe.
  • Organize all the required ingredients.
  • Prep a delicious recipe in 30 minutes or less!

More Recipes

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *