Basbousa Semolina Cakes With Syrup Recipe

Ingredients for Basbousa Semolina Cakes With Syrup

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• Lemon, Juice Of
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 4 large eggs
• Vanilla Extract
• 2 cups semolina flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Whole Milk
• Almond Halve
• Whipped Cream

How to Make Basbousa Semolina Cakes With Syrup

1. **Prepare the Syrup:** In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. **Add Honey:** Once boiling, stir in 1/4 cup honey. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
3. **Set Aside:** Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
4. **Preheat Oven & Prep Pan:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9x12 inch baking dish.
5. **Cream Butter & Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
6. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Beat in 4 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
7. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups semolina flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda.
8. **Combine Wet & Dry:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in 1 cup milk.
9. **Pour & Shape:** Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Using a butter knife, cut diagonal lines across the batter to create diamond shapes.
10. **Add Almonds:** Place a sliced almond in the center of each diamond.
11. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. **Syrup Time:** Remove from oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to absorb as much as possible.
13. **Cool & Serve:** Let cool completely for at least 20 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream (optional).