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Harissa Harisa Haresa Arabic Semolina Cake Recipe

Indulge in the rich, sweet flavors of Palestine with this traditional Harissa Harisa Haresa Semolina Cake! A cherished Ramadan and special occasion treat, this recipe delivers a moist, delicately spiced cake, perfectly complemented by a luscious syrup. This isn't your average semolina cake; it's a taste of family tradition, passed down through generations. Prepare to be amazed by its simple yet stunning results.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 606.9 kcal
Protein 14g
Rating 3.9 (17 Reviews)
Harissa Harisa Haresa Arabic Semolina Cake 17

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Harissa Harisa Haresa Arabic Semolina Cake

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How to Make Harissa Harisa Haresa Arabic Semolina Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a small jelly roll pan or 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups fine semolina, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, and 1 cup (2 sticks) softened unsalted butter.
  3. Use your hands to thoroughly mix the butter into the semolina and sugar until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup plain yogurt and 1 teaspoon baking soda.
  5. Let the yogurt mixture sit for a few minutes until it begins to foam slightly (this indicates the baking soda is activating).
  6. Gently pour the yogurt mixture over the semolina mixture.
  7. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
  8. Press the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  9. Using a butter knife, cut a diamond or square pattern into the cake.
  10. If using, place a slivered almond in the center of each diamond or square.
  11. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the cake is a deep golden brown color.
  12. While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup (see instructions below).
  13. Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot cake, ensuring it's fully absorbed.
  14. If using, sprinkle ground pistachios over the top.
  15. **Syrup Instructions:** In a saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar, ½ cup water, and optional ¼ teaspoon citric acid. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the syrup thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  16. Let the cake cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

11 g

Sugar

321g

Fat

40g

Carbs

37g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Sweets & Sides Desserts Mediterranean Vegetarian Holiday Recipes Baking

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion Healthy Palestinian Desserts Asian Middle Eastern Oven Holiday Event Cakes Cookies And Brownies Bar Cookies Stove Top Lebanese Dietary Low Sodium Ramadan Inexpensive Low In Something Taste Mood Sweet Equipment Presentation