Warbat with Ashta and Simple Syrup

Oh, my sweet-toothed friend, get ready for a treat that’s going to knock your socks off! If you’ve ever wanted to experience the perfect combination of flaky, golden pastry, creamy filling, and a delicate touch of sweetness, then Warbat with Ashta and Simple Syrup is your new best friend. This Middle Eastern dessert is a heavenly bite of indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself to something special or impressing guests at a dinner party. The flaky layers of dough give way to a rich, velvety ashta (a smooth, creamy filling), and the drizzle of simple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Warbat with Ashta and Simple Syrup

Warbat with Ashta is one of those desserts that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to make. It’s the ideal way to satisfy your sweet cravings while treating yourself to something special. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become your go-to dessert:

Irresistibly Flaky:

The dough in this dessert is crispy and light, creating a beautiful contrast with the creamy filling inside. Every bite is a satisfying combination of texture and flavor.

Creamy and Delicious:

Ashta, or Middle Eastern clotted cream, is a rich, velvety filling that gives Warbat its signature lusciousness. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming—a true treat for the senses.

Sweet, but Not Overpowering:

The simple syrup that’s drizzled over the pastry brings the perfect level of sweetness to the dessert. It’s just enough to complement the ashta and flaky layers without overpowering the delicate flavors.

Perfect for Any Occasion:

Whether you’re making a batch for a special celebration, a weekend treat, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, Warbat with Ashta is sure to impress. It’s the kind of dessert that feels fancy but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Easy to Customize:

Want to take your Warbat to the next level? You can add a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, rosewater, or orange blossom water to the filling for a fun twist that adds even more depth of flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Middle Eastern delicacy. Simple, yet so full of flavor!

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Phyllo Dough:

Thin, crispy layers of phyllo dough create the perfect flaky base for this dessert. The dough is buttery and light, making each bite irresistible.

Ashta (Clotted Cream):

The star filling of Warbat! Ashta is a rich, creamy mixture made from milk, sugar, and a little cornstarch. It’s velvety smooth and so comforting.

Simple Syrup:

A sweet and simple combination of water and sugar, this syrup is drizzled over the warm pastry, soaking into the layers to give them a luscious sweetness.

Butter:

To brush on the phyllo dough, adding richness and helping to achieve that perfect golden, crispy texture.

Rosewater or Orange Blossom Water (Optional):

A little splash of these floral waters adds a delightful hint of fragrance and depth to the dessert. It’s totally optional but highly recommended if you want to take the flavors up a notch.

Instructions

Ready to indulge in some Warbat with Ashta? Here’s how you can make this beautiful dessert!

1. Prepare the Ashta Filling:

Start by making the ashta filling. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a custard-like consistency. Once thickened, remove from the heat and stir in a little butter for extra richness. You can also add a splash of rosewater or orange blossom water at this stage for an extra layer of flavor. Set the ashta filling aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Phyllo Dough:

Next, lay out your phyllo dough on a clean, dry surface. You’ll need to work quickly with phyllo since it can dry out easily, so keep a damp towel nearby to cover the sheets you’re not using. Brush a baking dish with melted butter, and layer 3-4 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with butter as you go. Repeat until you have a few layers of dough in the pan.

3. Add the Ashta Filling:

Once you have the base of phyllo dough ready, spread a generous layer of the ashta filling across the dough. Be careful not to overfill—just enough to create a nice, even layer of creamy goodness.

4. Top with More Phyllo:

Cover the ashta filling with more layers of phyllo dough. Again, brush each layer with butter to ensure that flaky, golden texture. Continue layering until the phyllo dough is completely covering the filling.

5. Bake the Warbat:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Warbat for 20-25 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it to make sure the pastry doesn’t burn—just that perfect, golden brown color is what you’re looking for.

6. Drizzle with Simple Syrup:

Once your Warbat is out of the oven and still warm, immediately drizzle it with your simple syrup. This will allow the syrup to soak into the layers, making every bite wonderfully sweet and decadent.

7. Let It Cool Slightly:

Allow the Warbat to cool for a few minutes, then cut it into squares or rectangles. The crispy, golden pastry with the creamy, sweet filling is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Warbat with Ashta and Simple Syrup

Warbat with Ashta is best enjoyed while still slightly warm. It’s absolutely divine on its own, but you can also pair it with a few other treats to create a beautiful dessert spread:

• Serve with Fresh Fruit: A few slices of fresh berries or citrus can offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Warbat.
• Pair with Tea or Coffee: This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of mint tea or strong Arabic coffee—perfect for a special gathering or after dinner.
• Garnish with Pistachios: For an added crunch and a pop of color, sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top of the Warbat just before serving.

Additional Tips

• Keep the Phyllo Dough Covered: Phyllo dough dries out quickly, so make sure to keep the sheets you’re not using covered with a damp towel to prevent them from cracking.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet Warbat, you can adjust the amount of simple syrup you drizzle on top—start with a little and add more to taste.
• Make It in Advance: Warbat can be made a day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.
• Add Some Nuts: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some finely chopped almonds or pistachios into the ashta filling before baking.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make the ashta filling in advance?
A1: Yes! You can prepare the ashta filling up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just let it cool before using it in the Warbat.

Q2: Can I use pre-made phyllo dough for this recipe?
A2: Yes, pre-made phyllo dough works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the thawing instructions on the package.

Q3: Can I freeze Warbat with Ashta?
A3: Yes, you can freeze Warbat before baking it. Assemble the dessert, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q4: Can I use a different filling besides ashta?
A4: Absolutely! You can fill Warbat with sweetened ricotta cheese, custard, or even chocolate ganache if you’re in the mood for something different.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftover Warbat in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Q6: Can I add rosewater to the ashta filling?
A6: Yes! Rosewater is a lovely addition to the ashta filling, giving it a fragrant, floral note that complements the sweetness.

Q7: How do I make simple syrup?
A7: To make simple syrup, combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan, and heat until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.

Q8: Can I add a different flavor to the syrup?
A8: Yes! You can infuse the syrup with flavors like vanilla, orange zest, or cinnamon for a little twist.

Q9: How do I make the pastry extra crispy?
A9: Make sure to butter each layer of phyllo dough generously. The butter helps achieve that perfect golden and crispy texture.

Q10: Is Warbat a traditional Middle Eastern dessert?
A10: Yes! Warbat is a beloved dessert in many Middle Eastern countries, known for its flaky pastry and rich, creamy filling. It’s often served at celebrations and special occasions.

Conclusion

There you have it—your new favorite indulgence: Warbat with Ashta and Simple Syrup. With its layers of flaky pastry, creamy filling, and sweet syrup, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, this Middle Eastern treat is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, get baking, and let yourself savor every bite of this luscious, melt-in-your-mouth delight!

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