8 Irresistible Desserts to Try in Saudi Arabia

Desserts in Saudi Arabia offer a delightful mix of tradition and flavor, giving you a sweet glimpse into the country’s rich culinary heritage. 8 irresistible desserts to try in Saudi Arabia feature a tempting array of treats that blend local ingredients with cultural influences, creating indulgent flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth. From sticky date sweets that showcase the region’s prized dates to creamy, nutty confections that provide a satisfying end to any meal, the Saudi dessert scene is as varied as it is delicious. Whether you’re celebrating a festive occasion or enjoying a simple family gathering, these desserts are sure to delight and offer a taste of Saudi Arabia’s culinary traditions.

Rose Water Rice Pudding

Rose Water Rice Pudding is a delightful dessert that perfectly embodies the essence of Saudi Arabian sweet treats. This creamy pudding combines the gentle fragrance of rose water with the richness of milk, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s simple to make and is a popular choice for festive occasions, especially during Eid celebrations.

This pudding’s delicate flavor profile makes it a favorite among fans of traditional Saudi Arabian desserts. Topped with nuts and a sprinkle of rose petals, it not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on any table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this dish is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice (preferably short-grain)
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup rose water
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (pistachios or almonds)
• Fresh rose petals for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.
2. In a pot, combine the milk, sugar, and drained rice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the rose water and ground cardamom. Let it cool slightly.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts and rose petals if desired.

Date and Walnut Maamoul

Date and Walnut Maamoul is a delightful Middle Eastern pastry that’s loved for its sweet, rich flavor and satisfying texture. These treats are often enjoyed during festive occasions in Saudi Arabia and are a beautiful example of traditional Saudi Arabian sweets.

The dough is typically made from finely ground semolina or flour, giving it a tender yet crumbly texture. Filled with a mixture of sweet dates and crunchy walnuts, these pastries are perfect with a cup of Arabic coffee or tea. They’re surprisingly simple to make, making them a great option for both novice and experienced bakers looking to explore authentic Saudi Arabian desserts.

Ingredients

• 2 cups semolina
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 cup pitted dates, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup honey

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix semolina, flour, baking powder, and ground cardamom. Add softened butter and powdered sugar, mixing until crumbly. Gradually add milk until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine chopped dates, walnuts, and honey. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the Maamoul: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a small piece of dough, flatten it in your palm, and place a teaspoon of the filling in the center. Fold the dough over the filling and shape it into a ball or use a maamoul mold for a decorative touch.
4. Bake: Place the shaped maamoul on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before serving.

Saffron and Cardamom Cake

The Saffron and Cardamom Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of traditional Saudi Arabian flavors. With its rich aroma and soft texture, this cake features the unique combination of saffron and cardamom, making every bite a flavorful experience. It’s surprisingly simple to make, which is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a sweet addition to their table.

This cake is often enjoyed as part of dessert traditions in Saudi Arabia, offering a gentle sweetness and a hint of spice. It pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee, making it a great choice for gatherings and celebrations. Plus, you can use it as a base to explore other Saudi Arabian sweet treats!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
2. In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in warm milk for about 10 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the saffron milk, vanilla extract, and ground cardamom.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baklava with a Saudi Twist

Baklava with a Saudi twist combines flaky pastry with rich flavors, creating a delightful treat that showcases the best of Saudi Arabian desserts. This version often includes local ingredients like dates and honey, which enhance the sweetness and add a unique texture. It’s not only delicious but also relatively simple to make, making it a great choice for any occasion.

This dessert is perfect for gatherings, especially during festive seasons or special celebrations. With layers of buttery pastry, nuts, and a drizzle of aromatic syrup, this baklava will surely impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Now, let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 package of phyllo dough
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, and almonds), finely chopped
• 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the chopped nuts, dates, and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Layer the Phyllo: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a baking dish with melted butter. Layer half of the phyllo sheets, brushing each sheet with butter before adding the next one.
3. Add the Filling: Evenly spread the nut and date mixture over the layered phyllo.
4. Top with More Phyllo: Continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets on top, again brushing each sheet with butter.
5. Cut and Bake: Cut the layered baklava into diamond shapes and bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Make the Syrup: While baklava is baking, combine honey, water, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
7. Pour the Syrup: Once the baklava is done, remove it from the oven and pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Allow it to soak for several hours before serving.

Basbousa with Almonds

Basbousa is a delightful and moist cake that’s a staple in Saudi Arabian festive desserts. Made primarily from semolina and soaked in a sweet syrup, this treat is rich and has a lovely texture that melts in your mouth. Often garnished with almonds, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making it one of the most beloved Saudi Arabian sweet treats.

Making basbousa is quite simple, which makes it a favorite among home bakers. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, so you can whip it up for any occasion, especially during celebrations like Eid. It’s a classic example of Saudi Arabian cake recipes that everyone should try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup semolina
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup blanched almonds (for topping)
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar (for syrup)
• 1 tablespoon rose water

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine semolina, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Score the surface lightly with a knife to create diamond shapes and place an almond in the center of each diamond.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
5. While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by boiling water and sugar together until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in rose water.
6. Once the cake is done, pour the hot syrup evenly over the warm basbousa. Allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
7. Serve and enjoy this traditional Saudi Arabian dessert!

Fruit and Nut Salad with Honey

This Fruit and Nut Salad with Honey is a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Bursting with vibrant flavors, it combines juicy fruits and crunchy nuts, all drizzled with sweet honey for that extra touch. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great option for both casual gatherings and festive celebrations.

This salad showcases the delightful ingredients found in Saudi Arabian fruit desserts. The combination of fruits like apples, berries, and tropical options, along with an assortment of nuts, creates a colorful dish that’s appealing to the eye and the palate. Whether enjoyed as a light dessert or a snack, this salad highlights the essence of Middle Eastern desserts from Saudi Arabia.

Ingredients

• 2 apples, diced
• 1 cup mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup honey
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, mixed berries, and pineapple.
2. Add the chopped nuts and gently mix until everything is well combined.
3. Drizzle the honey over the salad and toss lightly to coat the fruits and nuts.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving. Enjoy this delightful salad chilled!

Kunafa with Cheese Filling

Kunafa with cheese filling is a beloved dessert in Saudi Arabia, known for its crispy texture and rich, creamy interior. This delightful treat combines layers of thin pastry soaked in sweet syrup with a gooey, melty cheese filling. It’s both sweet and savory, creating a unique flavor profile that many find irresistible. This recipe is fairly simple to make, making it a fantastic option for both special occasions and casual gatherings.

Served warm, kunafa is often garnished with nuts or fresh mint, adding a refreshing touch to its sweetness. It’s a staple during festive occasions like Eid and is considered one of the best desserts in Saudi Arabia. If you’re a fan of creamy desserts, this is one you definitely need to try!

Ingredients

• 1 package of kunafa pastry (about 400g)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)
• Chopped pistachios for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and rose water. Allow it to cool.
2. Prepare the Kunafa: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, fluff the kunafa pastry with your fingers, then mix in the melted butter until well combined.
3. Layer the Ingredients: In a greased baking dish, add half of the kunafa mixture, pressing it down evenly. Spread the mozzarella and ricotta cheeses on top, then cover with the remaining kunafa mixture.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
5. Finish with Syrup: Once baked, remove the kunafa from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup over the top. Let it soak for a few minutes before serving.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top and serve warm, enjoying each bite of this traditional Saudi Arabian dessert.

Qatayef with Nuts

Qatayef with nuts is a celebrated dessert in Saudi Arabia, especially during festive occasions like Ramadan. These delightful stuffed pancakes are filled with a mix of nuts, creating a lovely balance of textures and flavors. The light, soft exterior complements the crunchy, nutty filling perfectly, making each bite a treat. It’s a simple recipe that brings a touch of traditional Saudi Arabian sweet treats to your table.

This dessert is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite among home cooks. The rich flavors of the nuts combined with a drizzle of syrup create a heavenly experience. If you’re exploring dessert traditions in Saudi Arabia, Qatayef is a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pistachios)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• Honey or syrup for drizzling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and warm water until smooth. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a small amount of batter to form pancakes, cooking until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook for another minute until lightly golden.
3. Make the Filling: In another bowl, combine the chopped nuts, sugar, and melted butter.
4. Assemble the Qatayef: Place a spoonful of the nut mixture in the center of each pancake. Fold the pancake in half and pinch the edges to seal.
5. Serve: Drizzle with honey or syrup before serving. Enjoy your delicious Qatayef with nuts!

Discover the Flavors of Saudi Arabia

If you’re craving Saudi-inspired sweets and want to experience these unique desserts, check out our dessert directory to find local small-business dessert shops offering authentic or fusion Saudi desserts. Supporting these businesses gives you the opportunity to explore new flavors and treats, while also embracing cultural diversity in your culinary adventures.

For those ready to recreate these delectable desserts at home, our collection of recipes provides simple and delicious ideas to bring the sweet flavors of Saudi Arabia into your kitchen. From dates stuffed with nuts to cream-filled desserts, our recipes will help you capture the essence of Saudi desserts and enjoy them in the comfort of your own home.

Saudi Arabian desserts are more than just sweets—they’re a window into the country’s culture, flavors, and traditions. Imagine enjoying a knafeh with its golden, crunchy top or sharing a plate of saffron rice pudding with friends and family. These desserts are perfect for any occasion, offering a taste of Saudi Arabia in every bite.

At Creme Filled Churros, we’re here to help you discover the world of desserts and explore the rich, flavorful traditions of Saudi Arabia. Dive into these 8 irresistible desserts to try in Saudi Arabia, and let us guide you through the country’s sweet culinary offerings!