Ashta
Lebanese clotted cream — made by simmering torn bread in whole milk and cream, then straining and chilling until thick, silky, and delicately perfumed with rose water. The base of dozens of Lebanese desserts and a thing of profound simplicity.
Cook this hands-free
All 214 Sofra recipes are free in the app. This one includes step-by-step English voice narration, hands-free Cooking Mode, and the original oud music by Charbel Rouhana.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Ingredients
- 1 liter whole milk
- 500 ml heavy cream
- 4 slices white bread
- 2 tbsp rose water
- 2 tbsp sugar
Instructions
- Tear bread into small pieces and place in a heavy saucepan.
- Pour milk and cream over the bread. Stir to combine and begin to break down the bread.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for 25–30 minutes. The mixture will thicken as the bread dissolves and the cream reduces.
- The ashta is ready when it coats a spoon thickly and a line drawn through it on the back of the spoon holds for a few seconds.
- Remove from heat. Stir in rose water and sugar.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing with a spoon to push through the thickened cream.
- Transfer to a container. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set. It will thicken considerably as it chills.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step voice narration guides you hands-free. Faten's Idlib recipes carry her own Syrian-Arabic narration. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ashta?
Lebanese clotted cream — made by simmering torn bread in whole milk and cream, then straining and chilling until thick, silky, and delicately perfumed with rose water. The base of dozens of Lebanese desserts and a thing of profound simplicity.
Where is Ashta from?
Ashta comes from Lebanese Mountains. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Ashta vegetarian?
As written, Ashta contains no meat or fish, so it is suitable for vegetarians. It does include dairy or other animal-derived ingredients, so it is not vegan. Check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of white bread in Ashta?
The white bread called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Ashta its authentic character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Ashta?
In a Lebanese desserts spread, Ashta is served at the end of a meal or with afternoon coffee or tea. A little extra syrup or nuts on top is traditional where the recipe calls for them.
Can I make Ashta ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Most components can be prepared ahead. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture; syrups and nut toppings are best added or refreshed close to serving.