There’s something about desserts that feels like home. The warmth of freshly made gulab jamun, the delicate crunch of perfectly layered baklava, and the rich aroma of saffron-infused sweets. For British Pakistanis and Indians, food has always been more than just sustenance. It’s a connection to heritage, a bridge between generations, and a way to celebrate culture.
In recent months, Middle Eastern sweets have taken social media by storm, with viral sensations like Dubai Pistachio Chocolate Bar and the cheese-pulling Knafeh Trend dominating TikTok. These indulgent treats have captured the imagination of food lovers everywhere, inspiring home bakers and dessert enthusiasts to recreate them in their own kitchens.
For British South Asians, this trend feels both exciting and familiar – after all, our love for rich, syrupy, nutty-filled sweets runs deep. From the flaky layers of Baklawa to the buttery decadence of basbousa, Middle Eastern desserts resonate with the flavors and textures we grew up with.
The Shared Love for Sweetness: Middle Eastern & South Asian Desserts
It’s no surprise that we Desis love Eastern sweets. After all, the two regions share deep culinary connections.
Both South Asian and Middle Eastern desserts are built on layers of flavors using ingredients like rose water, saffron, pistachios, almonds, and ghee to create sweets that are rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
Think about it – Baklawa and Patisa both rely on flaky textures and nutty fillings, while Kunafa and Shahi Tukra share the same indulgent, syrup-soaked decadence. Even Basbousa and Sooji halwa have striking similarities, with their semolina base and buttery sweetness.
For British Pakistanis and Indians, these Middle Eastern treats don’t feel foreign. They feel like an extension of the sweets they grew up with, making them an easy favorite.
Middle Eastern Dessert Trends in the UK
The UK’s love affair with Middle Eastern sweets is growing fast, with these desserts appearing in high-end restaurants, street food stalls, and fusion cafes.
Dubai Viral Pistachio Chocolate Bar
A luxurious, pistachio-filled chocolate wrapped in crispy kataifi pastry, made famous by TikTokkers.
Cheese Pulling Kunafa
A sweet-savory delight, combining crispy shredded pastry with gooey melted cheese, now a viral sensation
Pistachio Baklava Rolls
A modern Twist on the classic baklava, featuring extra layers of crunch and nutty goodness
Basbousa Cakes
A soft, syrup-soaked semolina cake now appears in British bakeries with fusion flavors like coconut and cardamom.
These sweets are no longer just a part of Middle Eastern delicacies. They’re becoming mainstream favorites loved by British South Asians who appreciate their depth and richness.
The Fusion Factor: South Asian Meets Middle Eastern
As Middle Eastern sweets gain popularity, fusion desserts are emerging, blending South Asian and Middle Eastern flavors in exciting ways.
Imagine a Kunafa Gulab Jamun, where the crispy pastry meets the syrupy softness of classic desi sweets. Or a Basbousa Barfi, combining the buttery richness of South Asian mithai with the delicate texture of Middle Eastern Cakes.
Restaurants and home bakers are experimenting with these cross-cultural flavors, creating desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.
Where British South Asians Can Find These Treats
If you’re craving authentic Middle Eastern sweets, the UK has plenty of places to explore:
London Lebanese & Turkish Bakeries — Offering freshly made Baklava, Kunafa, and Basbousa.
Mancher’s Middle Eastern Dessert Houses — Known for their pistachio-stuffed chocolates and syrupy delights.
Birmingham’s Fusion Cafes — Where South Asian and Middle Eastern flavors collide in creative desserts.
Whether you’re looking for classic Middle Eastern sweets or exciting fusion creations, there’s something for every desi with a sweet tooth.
What’s your favorite Middle Eastern sweet? Have you tried any fusion desserts in the UK? Share your thoughts in the comments.
