12 Irresistible Arabic Desserts You Must Try

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with 12 irresistible Arabic desserts. This collection brings together some of the most mouthwatering treats from the Middle East, showcasing rich flavors and time-honored traditions that make every bite an experience. From gooey baklava to creamy qatayef, these recipes are easy to follow and perfect for sharing with friends and family. These desserts offer a delightful blend of spices, nuts, and sweet syrups that have become staples in Arabic cuisine, making them a must-try for anyone with a passion for food.

Zalabia (Fried Dough Sweets)

Zalabia are delightful fried dough sweets that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These treats are often coated in powdered sugar and drizzled with honey, offering a sweet crunch that’s truly irresistible. They are a popular choice among traditional Arabic desserts, making them a must-try for anyone looking to explore Middle Eastern flavors.

Making zalabia is quite simple, requiring basic ingredients like flour, yeast, and sugar. The dough is easy to work with, and frying them brings out a wonderful golden color. These treats are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet snack at any time. Enjoy them fresh, warm, and drizzled with syrup for an unforgettable experience!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• Oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Honey for drizzling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Fry the Zalabia: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, use a spoon to drop small amounts of dough into the oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Drain and Serve: Remove the zalabia from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with honey before serving.

Baklava with Honey Syrup

Baklava is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert that layers crispy phyllo dough with a rich mixture of nuts, typically walnuts or pistachios, all drenched in a sweet honey syrup. Its crisp exterior and sweet, gooey interior create a delightful contrast that makes it a favorite treat. While it may seem fancy, baklava is surprisingly simple to make at home!

This dish is often served at special occasions and festive gatherings, showcasing the best of traditional Arabic desserts. With its delicious balance of textures and flavors, it’s a must-try for anyone exploring Arabic sweets. Plus, it’s a great introduction to how to make Arabic desserts that truly impress!

Ingredients

• 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
• 2 cups walnuts or pistachios, finely chopped
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Nut Filling: In a bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Layer the Phyllo Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted butter. Lay down one sheet of phyllo and brush with more melted butter. Repeat this step with 8-10 sheets.
3. Add Filling: Spread a layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo. Continue layering phyllo sheets (brushing each with melted butter) and nut mixture until finished, ending with several layers of phyllo.
4. Cut and Bake: Cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, until golden brown.
5. Prepare the Syrup: While baklava is baking, combine water, sugar, honey, and vanilla in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes. Let cool.
6. Finish the Baklava: Once the baklava is out of the oven, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Let it sit to soak up the syrup before serving.

Mahalabia with Pistachios

Mahalabia is a creamy, dreamy dessert that hails from the heart of the Middle East. This delightful pudding is not only rich and smooth but also incredibly simple to make. The subtle flavors of rose water and the crunch of pistachios create a lovely balance, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

This traditional Arabic dessert is loved by many and often served at gatherings or special events. Its light sweetness and creamy texture make it an excellent choice after a hearty meal. Plus, it can be prepared in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 4 cups milk
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon rose water
• 1/4 cup crushed pistachios
• 1/4 cup coconut flakes (optional)
• Edible rose petals for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, mix the cornstarch with 1 cup of milk until smooth.
2. Add the remaining milk and sugar, and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens (about 10 minutes).
3. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the rose water.
4. Pour the mixture into serving bowls and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
5. Before serving, sprinkle with crushed pistachios, coconut flakes, and edible rose petals for a beautiful presentation.

Basbousa with Almonds

Basbousa is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert known for its light, moist texture and sweet, syrupy flavor. Made primarily from semolina, this cake is often flavored with coconut and topped with almonds, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. It’s a popular choice for special occasions, but its simplicity makes it a great weeknight treat as well.

The cake is soaked in a fragrant syrup made from sugar, water, and a hint of lemon or rose water, enhancing its flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, basbousa is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/4 cup blanched almonds (for topping)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar (for syrup)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Make the Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina, yogurt, sugar, melted butter, baking powder, and shredded coconut (if using). Mix until well combined.
2. Prepare for Baking: Grease a baking dish (about 9×9 inches) and pour the batter into it. Smooth the surface and use a knife to score the top into diamond shapes. Place an almond in the center of each diamond.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
4. Make the Syrup: While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by combining water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then add lemon juice and simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Soak the Cake: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over it. Allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve: Cut into squares or diamonds and enjoy your delicious Basbousa!

Kunafa with Cream Filling

Kunafa is a beloved Arabic dessert that combines crispy layers of shredded pastry with a rich cream filling. This delightful treat offers a wonderful balance of textures: the outer layer is golden and crunchy, while the inside is soft and creamy. Its sweet and slightly floral taste, typically enhanced by a hint of rose water, makes it irresistible and perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is simple enough for home cooks of all levels. Whether you’re preparing a special meal or just indulging in a sweet craving, kunafa is a must-try. It’s often served warm with a drizzle of syrup and a dollop of cream or yogurt, making it one of the famous Arabic desserts to try.

Ingredients

• 1 pound kunafa dough
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup rose water
• 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped (for garnish)
• Honey or sugar syrup (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Filling: In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat while stirring until the mixture thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in rose water. Let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Kunafa: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the kunafa dough with melted butter, ensuring it is well coated.
3. Layer the Dough: Spread half of the buttered kunafa dough in a greased baking dish, pressing it down gently. Pour the cooled cream filling over this layer. Top with the remaining kunafa dough, pressing down lightly again.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
5. Serve: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into squares, drizzle with honey or syrup, and garnish with chopped pistachios before serving.

Date and Walnut Stuffed Cookies

Date and Walnut Stuffed Cookies bring a delightful taste of traditional Arabic desserts right to your kitchen. These cookies are soft and chewy, with a sweet, nutty filling that makes them simply irresistible. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration.

Not only are these cookies delicious, but they’re also easy to make! With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that captures the essence of Arabic sweets. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea, and you have a treat that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the chopped dates, walnuts, and ground cinnamon to make the filling.
5. Take a small piece of dough, flatten it in your palm, and place a spoonful of the date and walnut mixture in the center. Fold the dough around the filling and shape it into a round cookie.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your delicious Date and Walnut Stuffed Cookies!

Saffron Rice Pudding

Saffron rice pudding is a delightful treat that combines the creaminess of rice pudding with the aromatic essence of saffron. This dessert is subtly sweet with a hint of floral notes, making it a perfect ending to any meal.

Simple to make, this dish is a favorite in many homes, especially during special occasions. It’s one of those traditional Arabic desserts that brings everyone together, offering a comforting sweetness that is hard to resist. Whether enjoyed on its own or topped with nuts, this pudding will surely impress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 4 cups milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pistachios
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
2. In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, saffron, and salt. Heat over medium until it starts to simmer.
3. Add the rinsed rice and stir. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is tender and the pudding thickens.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Turkish Delight Assortment

Turkish Delight, known as Lokum, is a classic Middle Eastern sweet that captivates with its chewy texture and delightful flavors. This popular Arabic sweet can be made in a variety of flavors, from rose and lemon to pistachio and orange. Its soft, gelatinous consistency makes it a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea or presenting it as a gift.

Making Turkish Delight at home might seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple! With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a colorful assortment of these delightful cubes that will impress your friends and family. Let’s get started on how to make this traditional Arabic dessert!

Ingredients

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon rose water
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like pistachios or walnuts)
• Food coloring (optional)
• Cornstarch for dusting

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with 1 cup of water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly.
3. Cook this mixture over low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
4. Add rose water and food coloring if desired, mixing well.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased dish and sprinkle the chopped nuts on top. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
6. Once set, dust a cutting board with cornstarch and turn the Turkish Delight out onto it. Cut into squares and coat each piece with cornstarch to prevent sticking.

Luqaimat (Sweet Dumplings)

Luqaimat are delightful sweet dumplings that are a true treat for the taste buds. These crispy on the outside, soft on the inside morsels are often drizzled with a luscious date syrup or honey, making them a favorite among Arabic desserts. They have a slightly chewy texture, which balances perfectly with the sweet syrup, leaving you wanting more.

Making Luqaimat is quite simple, making them perfect for both special occasions and everyday snacks. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up this popular Arabic sweet that’s sure to impress family and friends. They’re a staple during Ramadan, but delicious any time of the year!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
• Oil for frying
• Date syrup or honey for drizzling
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and rose water, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
4. Fry the Dumplings: Heat oil in a deep pan. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain and Serve: Remove the dumplings and drain them on paper towels. Drizzle with date syrup or honey and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving.

Knafeh with Nabulsi Cheese

Knafeh is one of the famous Arabic desserts to try, known for its unique combination of textures and flavors. This sweet delicacy features layers of thin pastry soaked in syrup, paired perfectly with stretchy, gooey Nabulsi cheese. The result is a delightful dish that balances sweetness and savory notes, making it a must-try for anyone exploring Arabic sweets.

Making Knafeh might look a bit challenging at first, but it’s quite simple once you get the hang of it. The crispy top and cheesy filling, combined with a drizzle of syrup, create a delicious bite that’s satisfying and comforting. Serve it warm, and you’ll have a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 package of kataifi dough (about 400g)
• 250g Nabulsi cheese (or mozzarella as a substitute)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon rose water
• 1/4 cup crushed pistachios for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Add rose water and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cheese: If using Nabulsi cheese, soak it in water for a few hours to reduce the saltiness. Drain and shred the cheese.
3. Assemble Knafeh: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix shredded kataifi dough with melted butter until well combined. Spread half of the kataifi mixture in a greased baking dish and press down firmly.
4. Add Cheese Layer: Evenly spread the shredded cheese over the kataifi base, then top with the remaining kataifi mixture, pressing down again.
5. Bake: Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Finish: Once out of the oven, immediately pour the cooled syrup over the hot Knafeh. Let it soak for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with crushed pistachios.

Halawet El Jibn (Cheese Dessert)

Halawet El Jibn is a delightful Arabic dessert that beautifully combines the richness of cheese with the sweetness of sugar and syrup. This unique dessert offers a wonderful balance of textures, with a soft and chewy base topped with a luscious syrup. It’s a popular choice for special occasions and is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a great option for both experienced cooks and beginners.

The sweet, creamy flavors make Halawet El Jibn a favorite among many, often served with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added crunch. This dish is a perfect way to explore traditional Arabic desserts and is sure to impress your guests. If you’re looking to try your hand at making this treat, here’s a simple recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fine semolina
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup rose water
• 1 cup sugar (for syrup)
• 1 cup water (for syrup)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Pistachios, crushed (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a saucepan, combine water and semolina, stirring until you get a smooth mixture. Gradually add grated cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides.
2. Shape the Dessert: Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Grease a flat surface and spread the dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Allow it to cool completely.
3. Make the Syrup: In another saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in rose water and remove from heat.
4. Cut and Serve: Once the dough is cool, cut it into squares. Drizzle with the syrup and garnish with crushed pistachios before serving.

Qatayef with Nut Filling

Qatayef is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert that resembles stuffed pancakes. This sweet treat is often served during Ramadan but can be enjoyed year-round. With a tender outer layer and a rich nut filling, Qatayef offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The deliciously sweet and nutty filling makes it a must-try for anyone who loves Arabic desserts.

This recipe is pretty simple, and you can customize the filling according to your taste. Whether you prefer walnuts, pistachios, or a mixture of nuts, each bite is bursting with flavor. Drizzled with honey or syrup, Qatayef is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for filling)
• 1/4 cup honey (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, mix the flour, water, yeast, sugar, and salt. Let it sit for about 30 minutes until bubbly.
2. Cook the Qatayef: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour a small ladle of batter onto the pan, forming a small pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then remove from the pan. Repeat with the remaining batter.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped nuts, cinnamon, and sugar.
4. Assemble the Qatayef: Take one pancake, place a tablespoon of the nut mixture in the center, and fold it over to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges to seal.
5. Serve: Drizzle honey over the filled Qatayef before serving. Enjoy your homemade Arabic dessert!

A Taste of Middle Eastern Tradition

If you’re looking to savor these Arabic desserts or want to discover local businesses serving authentic Middle Eastern treats, check out our dessert directory to find small businesses near you. Supporting local bakeries means you can enjoy traditional Arabic desserts made with care, directly from your community.

For those inspired to try their hand at making these treats at home, we’d love to see your creations! Submit your recipe here and be part of a growing community sharing the magic of Arabic desserts.

Arabic desserts stand out for their rich textures and intricate flavors. From syrup-soaked delights to creamy confections, these desserts offer a taste of the Middle East that you’ll want to savor again and again.

At Creme Filled Churros, we’re here to help you experience these unforgettable sweets. Try these 12 Arabic desserts that will leave you craving more, and let us inspire your next dessert adventure!