Ashta is a thickened cream that is used in many Middle Eastern desserts. You’ll usually find it inside desserts or on top! It can be served with fruits as well. It’s a versatile treat that is made with just a handful of ingredients and takes 15 minutes to put together from start to finish!
There are many ways to make this popular cream but I find this recipe is fool proof! I do recommend if you’re planning to use it in desserts that you make it ahead of time since it needs a few hours to set in the refrigerator.
WHAT IS ASHTA?
It has a few names. Ashta, Eshta, Clotted cream, thickened cream. Whatever you call it, it’s delicious! Ashta is made up of cream, sugar, white bread and cornstarch to thicken it. It’s infused with orange blossom which gifts a beautiful scent and delicious taste. It’s used in many Middle Eastern desserts as well as fruit cocktails.
HOW DO I MAKE IT?
In a pot you’ll mix cream, white bread and sugar then place it on the stove. You’ll whisk this mixture consistently on medium heat until it comes to a boil. Then you’ll whisk in the cornstarch slurry and orange blossom. The mixture will immediately thicken then you’ll transfer to a glass dish or bowl to cool to room temperature. Then transfer to the refrigerator to set for a minimum of 3 hours. After a few hours you can use it in your favourite desserts!
Ingredients
2 cups heavy whipping cream
3 slices bread, broken into small pieces (crust removed)
2.5 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp corn starch + 1/4 cup water
1 tsp orange blossom
Instructions
In a pot pour whipping cream, sugar and broken pieces of bread, stir and put it on medium high heat.
Stir continuously until it reaches a boil.
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch & water; stir into milk mixture. It will thicken immediately, continue stirring for 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in orange blossom.
Pour into a container and allow to cool on the counter until room temperature, transfer to the fridge for 3 hours before using.