Layali Lubnan Recipe – Creamy Lebanese Semolina Pudding with Pistachios

Layali Lubnan (Lebanese Nights) is a classic and elegant Middle Eastern dessert. It features a silky toasted semolina pudding, topped with rich clotted cream (qishta) and crunchy pistachios and walnuts, then drizzled with fragrant orange blossom sugar syrup. This no-bake treat is light, aromatic, and loved during Ramadan, Eid, and special occasions.

The contrast between the warm, creamy semolina base and the cool, smooth cream layer makes every spoonful irresistible. It is surprisingly easy to prepare and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

Semolina Pudding

• 1 cup fine semolina
• 5 cups milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (or rose water)

Sugar Syrup (Attar)

• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

Topping

• 2 tubs clotted cream (qishta) or thick cream
• Chopped pistachios and walnuts for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the semolina and stir continuously until it turns a light golden color and becomes fragrant (4-5 minutes).
2. Gradually pour in the milk and sugar while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens into a soft pudding (8-10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom water.
3. Pour the warm pudding into a serving dish or individual bowls and smooth the top. Let it cool completely to room temperature.
4. Prepare the syrup: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add the orange blossom water. Allow it to cool.
5. Once the semolina has cooled, spread the clotted cream evenly over the top. Sprinkle generously with chopped pistachios and walnuts.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. Drizzle with sugar syrup just before serving.

Tips for Success

• Toast the semolina well for a rich, nutty flavor.
• Use good quality clotted cream or thick double cream for the best texture.
• The dessert tastes even better the next day after chilling.
• You can serve it slightly warm or fully chilled according to preference.
• Garnish with extra pistachios and a drizzle of syrup just before serving for maximum freshness.

Enjoy this elegant and creamy Layali Lubnan — a classic Lebanese dessert that brings luxury and comfort to your table with every spoonful!