Basbusa (Semolina Cake)
Basbusa is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert characterized by its moist texture and sweet flavor, topped with a fragrant syrup. It's perfect for any occasion and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 cups semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup desiccated coconut
- Almonds (for garnish)
For the syrup
- 1.5 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp rose water
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix semolina, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, baking powder, vanilla extract, and desiccated coconut until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth the top.
- Score the top into diamond or square shapes and place an almond in the center of each piece.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Syrup preparation
- While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by boiling sugar, water, lemon juice, and rose water in a saucepan for about 10 minutes. Then let it cool.
Serving
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup over it.
- Allow it to absorb the syrup and cool before cutting and serving.
Notes
Basbusa is best served at room temperature. It can be garnished with shredded coconut or additional almonds for decoration. To store, keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.