Basbousa (syrian Semolina Cake)

Basbousa is a traditional Syrian Jewish dessert made with semolina, yogurt, and coconut, soaked in a sweet, fragrant syrup. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for serving with a cup of tea or coffee.

Kosher Dessert Syrian Jewish Syrian Cuisine Jewish Cuisine Semolina
Basbousa (syrian Semolina Cake)

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups semolina
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 cup desiccated coconut
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 cup blanched almonds, for garnish
  • For the syrup:
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the semolina, yogurt, coconut, sugar, melted butter, and baking powder until well combined.
  3. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Using a knife, score the mixture into diamond or square shapes. Place an almond in the center of each piece.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  5. While the basbousa is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. When the basbousa is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over the hot basbousa. Let it cool and absorb the syrup before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
35g
Protein
3g
Fat
11g

Supplies

9x13 inch baking dish Mixing bowl Saucepan

Tools

Knife Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the basbousa with a hot cup of Arabic coffee or sweet mint tea.

Tips & tricks

For a richer flavor, you can also add a few drops of rose water or orange blossom water to the syrup.

Cost

$10