Basbousa - بسبوسة

Posted on: 2025-10-18

Step 1 - Making the syrup

• In a saucepan, combine $1 \frac{1}{2}$ cups of sugar with 1 cup of water.
• Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
• (optional) add a splash oh lemon juice and/or rose/orange blossom water.
• Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 2 - Prep the cake batter

• In a bowl, first mix the dry ingredients:

• 2 cups of semolina flour

• 1 cup shredded desiccated/shredded coconut (optional but not really)

• $\frac{3}{4}$ cups of sugar

• 1 tsp baking powder

• A pinch of salt

• Then mix in the wet ingredients:

• $\frac{1}{2}$ melted butter (or ghee)

• 1 cup of plain yogurt (or 1 cup of milk + 1 Tbsp of vinegar)

• Texture should be thick and spoonable, not runny.

• Let batter rest 10-15 minutes so the semolina absorbs moisture.

Step 3 - Bake

• Butter the bottom of a 9in x 13in pan.
• Spread the batter evenly and level the top.
• Score the batter into squares or diamonds.
• Place an almond or a hazelnut on each scored section.
• Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30-40 minutes.

Step 4 - Adding the syrup

• As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, evenly pour the syrup over the cake.
• Let it soak for ~30 minutes (or as long as you can bare) before serving.

Enjoy!