🍰 Basbousa Recipe (Easy Semolina Cake with Syrup)
📝 Introduction
Basbousa is a classic Middle Eastern dessert made from semolina, soaked in fragrant sugar syrup, and often topped with almonds or coconut. This soft, moist cake is incredibly easy to prepare and delivers a rich, sweet flavor that melts in your mouth. Popular across Egypt, Turkey, and the Levant, Basbousa is perfect for celebrations or as a delightful everyday treat.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup semolina
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cup yogurt
- ½ cup melted butter or ghee
- ½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whole almonds (for topping)
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Syrup
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water.
- Bring to a boil, then add lemon juice.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Add rose water and let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a bowl, mix semolina, sugar, coconut, and baking powder.
- Add yogurt, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Bake
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish and spread the batter evenly.
- Cut into squares and place an almond on each piece.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Add Syrup
- Pour cooled syrup over hot cake immediately after baking.
- Let it absorb and cool before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with hot tea or Arabic coffee
- Garnish with pistachios or extra coconut
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Enjoy as a dessert after Middle Eastern meals
❓ FAQs
1. What is Basbousa made of?
Basbousa is made from semolina, sugar, yogurt, butter, and soaked in sugar syrup.
2. Can I make Basbousa without coconut?
Yes, coconut is optional and can be omitted.
3. Why is my Basbousa dry?
It may be overbaked or not enough syrup was added.
4. Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, but butter or ghee gives better flavor.
5. How long does Basbousa last?
It stays fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature or longer refrigerated.
🍰 Similar Recipes
1. Kunafa
A crispy shredded pastry dessert soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or cream.
2.Baklava
A rich dessert made with layers of filo pastry, nuts, and sweet syrup.
3.Mammoul
Traditional cookies filled with dates or nuts, often served during holidays.
4. Harissa
A dessert very similar to Basbousa, made with semolina and syrup.
5. Revani
A Turkish version of semolina cake soaked in citrus syrup.
📝 Final Thoughts
Basbousa is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dessert that brings the authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine to your kitchen. With its moist texture and sweet syrup infusion, it’s perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors with coconut, nuts, or floral syrups.

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