Description
A moist semolina cake, Basbousa is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert. It’s soaked in a fragrant rosewater syrup, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fine semolina
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Sliced almonds for topping (optional)
- For the Rose Syrup:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon rose water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the semolina, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and shredded coconut (if using). Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Score the top of the basbousa into diamond or square shapes with a knife. Place a sliced almond in the center of each piece, if desired.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the basbousa is baking, prepare the rose syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the sugar is dissolved and the syrup thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the rose water.
- Once the basbousa is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm rose syrup evenly over the hot cake. The cake will absorb the syrup.
- Let the basbousa cool completely before cutting and serving. This allows the syrup to fully soak in and the cake to set.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can toast the semolina lightly before mixing.
- Ensure the syrup is warm and the cake is hot when pouring to maximize absorption.
- Basbousa can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of pistachios or more shredded coconut.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg