Um Ali

Step 1: If using puff pastry, allow pastry to thaw to room temperature ( 30 minutes), then bake at 400 degrees F until brown and puffy, 10-12 minutes.

Step 2: Crush baked puff pastry, or break croissants into 1 inch pieces, and place in a bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Add vanilla, cinnamon and cardamom to milk, and mix well. Set aside.

Step 4: Place mixed nuts on a cookie sheet and toast in the oven, at 350 degrees F, until lightly golden.

Step 5: Place heavy cream and powdered sugar in a mixing bowl. Using the whisk attachment of a stand mixer or an electric mixer, beat cream on high speed for 5 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Set aside.

Step 6: Forty minutes before serving, fill ramekins half way with crushed pastry or pieces of croissant.

Step 7: Top with a layer of mixed nuts.

Step 8: Top with a smaller amount of crushed pastry or pieces of croissant, and pour milk over pastry to cover completely.

Step 9: Cover top with cream, and dust with powdered sugar.

Step 10: Place ramekins on a large baking sheet, and place in a preheated 350 degree F oven, for 23 minutes, or until milk is bubbling and face is a light golden color.

Step 11: If more color is desired, place under a broiler for 1-2 minutes.

Step 12: Remove from oven, and garnish with more nuts and serve immediately.