If you’ve been looking for a dessert that beautifully balances simplicity with indulgence, let me introduce you to my go-to delight: Sweet Semolina Cake, or Basbousa. As the warm scent of rosewater wafts through my kitchen, I’m transported to sunlit afternoons spent in the Middle East, indulging in this luscious treat. What’s remarkable is that this cake can be whipped up in just 30-40 minutes—ideal for those impromptu gatherings or a sweet treat to brighten your day.

The moist texture, with its nutty undertones and a hint of floral notes, makes for a comforting end to any meal. Plus, there’s endless room to customize, whether you want to fold in toasted coconut flakes, nuts for a crunch, or even go gluten-free! This Sweet Semolina Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity, inviting everyone to savor its irresistible charm. Let me guide you through making this Middle Eastern classic that’s sure to become a regular on your dessert table!

Why is Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa a must-try?

Effortless Preparation: This delightful dessert comes together in just 30-40 minutes, allowing you to whip it up anytime!

Customize Your Way: From coconut flakes to nuts, the variations are endless, catering to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Moist & Flavorful: With its tender texture and hints of nutty richness, Basbousa is an explosion of flavor that pleases every palate.

Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, this cake will leave your guests raving and coming back for seconds!

Cultural Experience: Enjoy a taste of Middle Eastern hospitality, inviting warmth and celebration into your home.

If you’re looking for more sweet inspiration, check out our different variations of desserts!

Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create this Middle Eastern marvel!

For the Cake

Semolina – This star ingredient provides a unique, granular texture that makes Basbousa special.
All-Purpose Flour – Adds structure and helps balance the cake’s density for that perfect bite.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; consider using coconut sugar for a delightful caramel twist.
Baking Powder – Essential for achieving a light and fluffy result that keeps the cake tender.
Yogurt – Contributes moisture and tang; swap it for almond yogurt to make it dairy-free.
Vegetable Oil – Maintains moisture and enhances the cake’s softness; melted butter is also a great substitute.

For an Added Twist

Coconut Flakes – Optional, but these elevate the cake with a tasty tropical flair; use shredded coconut for more texture.
Water – Activates dry ingredients, ensuring your batter is consistently smooth and easy to work with.
Rosewater – An optional fragrant enhancer; skip if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the taste for a perfect balance against the sweetness.

For the Topping

Almonds – Provides a crunchy garnish; substitute with your favorite nuts or seeds based on what you have at home.

Let these ingredients brighten your kitchen as you treat yourself and those you love to this exquisite Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa!

How to Make Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa

Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare a warm space for your cake that’s perfect for baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine semolina, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder until they’re well blended and free of lumps.
Whisk Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the yogurt, vegetable oil, water, rosewater, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy, creating a delightful base for your batter.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is smooth and homogeneous without overmixing.
Fold in Coconut: If you’re using coconut flakes, gently fold them into the batter now, ensuring they’re evenly distributed for bursts of tropical flavor.
Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Cool & Garnish: Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for about 30-40 minutes before garnishing with almonds and slicing into serving pieces.

Optional: Drizzle with honey or syrup before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa

Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow the cake to reach room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap individual slices of Basbousa tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw slices overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to regain that freshly baked taste.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa preparations are a true time-saver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and combining them with the wet ingredients. Store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, just give it a gentle stir, pour it into your greased baking dish, and bake as instructed. This method not only saves you time but also ensures that the cake remains just as delicious and moist as when freshly made. Enjoy the convenience without compromising on flavor!

Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa Variations

Customize your Basbousa and create a dessert that’s uniquely yours—just imagine the delightful flavors that await!

Dairy-Free: Substitute yogurt with almond or coconut yogurt for a smooth, creamy base that fits your dietary needs.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed walnuts, pistachios, or hazelnuts for a delightful textural contrast and nutty flavor in every bite.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour such as almond or oat flour to ensure everyone can join in on the sweet enjoyment without compromising flavor.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate the zest from lemons or oranges to infuse bright, refreshing citrus notes that elevate the cake’s complexity.
Spiced Delight: Add a sprinkle of ground cardamom or cinnamon for an aromatic warmth that beckons with each slice—perfect for cozy gatherings.
Coconut Love: Mix in shredded coconut alongside the flakes for a tropical flavor explosion that’ll transport your taste buds to paradise.
Chocolate Indulgence: Swirl in melted chocolate for a rich twist, or top with chocolate ganache for an extra layer of decadent sweetness.
Sweet Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to surprise with a subtle, warming heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.

What to Serve with Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa?

Indulging in the warm and nutty flavors of Basbousa is just the beginning—explore these delightful pairings to create a complete dessert experience.

Mint Tea: The refreshing, herbal notes of mint tea cleanse the palate beautifully, making it the perfect compliment to the sweet cake.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the cake with a burst of natural sweetness.
Coconut Ice Cream: Creamy coconut ice cream enhances the tropical flair of the cake, offering a deliciously cool contrast with each heavenly bite.
Cardamom Spiced Coffee: The aromatic notes of cardamom in your coffee echo the flavors of Basbousa, creating a warm and cozy pairing for a delightful afternoon treat.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey on top elevates the sweetness and adds a touch of richness, harmonizing beautifully with the cake.
Pistachio Crumble Topping: Sprinkle some finely chopped pistachios for an inviting crunch. The nutty accents perfectly complement the soft texture of the cake.
Rosewater Syrup: A drizzle of syrup made with rosewater can deepen the floral notes, creating a fragrant and luscious finish that will impress your guests.
Almond Milk Latte: The nutty creaminess of almond milk latte offers a rich accompaniment to Basbousa, perfect for those cozy nights in.

These delightful pairings will not only elevate your Basbousa experience but also bring warmth and joy to any gathering. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa

Gentle Mixing: Mix the batter gently to avoid a dense texture. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake instead of the light, airy result you want.
Fresh Baking Powder: Always use fresh baking powder for effective leavening. Using expired baking powder may cause your cake to not rise properly.
Cooling Time: Let the cake cool for 30-40 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain neat pieces and prevents the cake from crumbling.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftover Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days – it stays delicious!
Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors like cardamom or citrus zest. Small tweaks can elevate the classic taste of Basbousa to new heights!

Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my semolina is fresh enough to use?
Absolutely! Fresh semolina is key for the best texture in your Basbousa. You should avoid using any that has an off or rancid smell. If it has dark spots or a clumpy consistency, it’s time to replace it. Always check the expiration date before use!

What’s the best way to store leftover Basbousa?
Very! To keep your Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa fresh, cover it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have more leftovers, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember, letting it come to room temperature before serving will enhance the flavors!

Can I freeze Basbousa, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Sweet Semolina Cake, let it cool completely first. Then, slice it and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it briefly in the microwave for that freshly-baked taste!

What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise well?
Very! If your Basbousa doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to expired baking powder. Always check the date and freshness before using it. Additionally, mixing the batter too vigorously can cause a denser cake. Make sure to mix gently until just combined for the best airy texture!

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
The more the merrier! This Sweet Semolina Cake Basbousa can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, substitute yogurt with almond or coconut yogurt. If you need a gluten-free option, feel free to use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Just ensure to check ingredient labels if you or your guests have allergy concerns!