Umm Ali

Instructions

1. Prepare the pastry
   If using store-bought puff pastry, bake according to package instructions until golden brown. Allow to cool, then break into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can use croissants, palmiers, or any flaky pastry, torn into pieces.
2. Preheat the oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
3. Layer the base ingredients
   Place the broken pastry pieces in the buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped nuts, raisins, and coconut evenly over the pastry. Reserve a small amount of nuts for garnish.
4. Prepare the milk mixture
   In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the ground cinnamon and cardamom.
5. Assemble and bake
   Pour the hot milk mixture evenly over the pastry and nut mixture. Drizzle the melted butter over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
6. Broil for color
   For extra color and crispness, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
7. Serve warm
   Remove from the oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes. Sprinkle with the reserved nuts and a dusting of cinnamon. Serve warm in bowls or dessert plates.