12 Must-Try Ramadan Desserts in Abu Dhabi
It is a time for reflection, fasting, for coming together with the most important people. The holy month is celebrated in Abu Dhabi with a variety of delicious dishes, but especially desserts. Indulgent treats end fasts in each tradition for the simple reason that 8 days of not eating anything causes what is called hunger pangs or hunger attack. While in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan, you’re in for the treat of your life! Sweet delicacies of the city’s food scene come alive with the vibrant city’s food scene and Ramadan Desserts in Abu Dhabi. The fragrant pastries, syrup soaked delights, the taste is so many that there were so many options that you would want to try.
From newbies to locals, if you’re craving for some must have Ramadan desserts Abu Dhabi these 12 desserts are definitely a must to have at least to experience a great Ramadan. These desserts are more than just a taste of the tastebuds, they are a celebration, a reflection and an opportunity to bring people together to enjoy the essence of the holy month. That being said, whether you’re breaking your fast with family, friends or new acquaintances, these Ramadan desserts in Abu Dhabi will certainly help you get into the festive mood. If you are also in the UAE exploring, do not miss the incredible things you can discover out in a Dubai City Tour another place where you will discover even more mouthwatering Ramadan sweets!
Here are the 12 Must-Try Ramadan Desserts in Abu Dhabi
1. Baklava
Ramadan is the time when people all over the Middle East love to indulge in Baklava. A flaky pastry made with a stack of thin filo dough piled high with chopped nuts (pistachios and walnuts are the common types), all piled high with sweet, sticky syrup. This results in an excellent play of crisp, crunchy, and sweet. Baklava is a great way to break your fast, and is served with Arabic coffee. Iftar is a treat that never fails to bring people together around the table.
2. Kunafa
Semolina dough or shredded filo pastry soaked in sugary syrup is rich and indulgent dessert called Kunafa. It’s usually topped with a melted cheese, clotted cream or even nuts for added crunch. In Ramadan, Kunafa is especially popular since its sweet, creamy texture is a good way to finish a meal. This golden treat is a sweet and rich treat that can be served warm or chilled. This is a must try dessert that represents the spirit of Ramadan in Abu Dhabi.
3. Qatayef
Stuffed pancakes are the traditional Ramadan dessert known as Qatayef. Sweet fillings such as nuts, sweetened cheese or cream are filled into the dough and folded into a half moon shape. These are fried or baked little dumplings which are drizzled with syrup to make them sweet. Qatayef is served warm and is an ideal treat for iftar. This delicacy is one of the most popular sweets that are enjoyed as a snack or dessert in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan.
4. Bummiya
During Ramadan in Abu Dhabi, there is a treat called Bummiya, also known as honey cakes. These soft sponge like cakes are soaked in a mixture of honey, rose water, sometimes saffron, which gives them a fragrant and sweet flavor. They are a perfect dessert after fasting because of their light, airy texture. The delicate balance of honey and rose water make this something sweet with a scent to die for. Bummiya is one such dessert, that can be savored by those who want something light and yet flavorful.
5. Basbousa
Traditionally, Middle Eastern semolina cake Basbousa is soaked in sweet syrup and garnished with coconut or almonds. Abu Dhabi’s favorite during Ramadan is this moist, flavorful cake. It is a very sweet dessert, ideal for after an entire day of fasting. Basbousa is a dessert that is loved by many and whether it is served at family gatherings or at local bakeries, it is always a go to for someone who is craving a simple yet indulgent dessert. This is one of those sweets that never fails to satisfy your craving after iftar.
6. Atayef Asafiri
It is called atayef Asafiri which is a lighter version of the classic qatayef and has a twist in its taste. These little small stuffed pancakes, which are very sweet such as sweet cream or nuts, are then fried golden and crispy. Atayef Asafiri is a deliberately lighter and slightly airier treat compared to the heavier qatayef as it’s perfect for those who want to indulge but not become too full. They are served warm and are the perfect way to indulge in a sweet bite of a sweet treat during Ramadan in Abu Dhabi, often found at local stalls during iftar.
7. Rice Pudding (Roz Bel Laban)
Roz Bel Laban or rice pudding is a comforting and soothing dessert that is made from rice, milk, sugar, and sometimes with cinnamon, nuts or coconut on top. During Ramadan, this is a favorite creamy dessert in Abu Dhabi because it is a cool refreshing contrast to the heat of the season. It’s simple but indulgent and is the perfect way to end a meal after fasting. The pudding can be served warm or cold, and it is a rich, velvety texture that is filling and satisfying during the month of Ramadan.
8. Saffron and Rose Water Pudding
This creamy, silky pudding is a luxurious combination of the flavors of saffron and rose water, and it’s aromatic and elegant. It is usually served chilled and lowers your meal down a delicious note. The smell literally turned into a relaxing essence of saffron and evenings of even rose water which blended together so well. This pudding is perfect to cool down after a hot day of fasting and is a popular choice of dessert for those looking for a delicate and sophisticated flavor profile during Ramadan in Abu Dhabi.
9. Luqaimat
Deep fried dumplings that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside are Luqaimat. They’re drizzled with date syrup or honey and are irresistibly sweet and sticky. During Ramadan, Abu Dhabi loves Luqaimat and it’s often served during iftar. Despite its simplicity and sweetness crunch, this treat is enough to fall in love with. Snack or share with friends and family during the spirit of Ramadan, they are perfect.
10. Knafeh
Abu Dhabi’s version of Knafeh is no exception to the beloved dessert in the Middle East. Knafeh is baked with a layer of sweet cheese or custard and soaked in syrup, made with shredded filo dough or semolina. Pistachios or other nuts are added for a little texture and flavor to this decadent dessert. The best way to enjoy Knafeh is warm fresh from the oven, which makes it an ideal ending to a fast. The sweet, cheesy, and crispy combination of it is a true indulgence for anyone who has a sweet tooth during Ramadan.
11. Umm Ali
It is a rich and creamy bread pudding made of layers of puff pastry, milk, sugar and a mix of nuts and raisins, known as Umm Ali. This dessert is usually served warm and is the best thing to have after a long day of fasting. It is a perfect choice for those who like a hearty sweet treat during Ramadan because of its comforting, velvety texture. Umm Ali is a perfect dessert to share with family and friends, and is often shared among them. It is as à la buerre and delicious as it is heartwarming.
12. Dates and Nuts Confectionery
As a key element of Ramadan in the UAE, dates combined with nuts such as almonds, walnuts or pistachios, are an irresistible treat. If you are having iftar, you will find these date and nut confections served as a snack, and they are a delightful mix of natural sweetness and crunch. The dates give a burst of energy after a day of fasting and the nuts give a savory element. These confectioneries are perfect, healthy indulgence to enjoy during Ramadan in Abu Dhabi – whether wrapped in chocolate or served as simple bites.
Conclusion
During Ramadan, Abu Dhabi is a sweet tooth’s paradise. The city has everything from the crisp, syrup soaked layers of baklava to the warm creamy indulgence of Umm Ali and all of it is a reflection of the holy month. With friends or family, you’ve decided to break your fast and these 12 must-try Adboud’s Ramadan desserts in Abu Dhabi will surely leave a mark on your taste buds, and make your Ramadan even more memorable. Each bite serves as tradition, as it is a taste of culture, and togetherness.
If you’re planning to explore more of the UAE, don’t forget to visit Dubai where you will get to taste its own variety of delicious Ramadan desserts. No matter if you are in Abu Dhabi or on a Dubai City Tour, the UAE’s rich and diverse Ramadan desserts are not to be missed. Celebrate Ramadan with every bite and indulge these sweet treats, the time really is flying by; even in these parts of the world.
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