Orange Blossom Semolina Cake with Honey Spiced Yoghurt

This orange blossom semolina cake is moist, fragrant, and gently sweet, infused with citrus and floral notes. Paired with creamy honey spiced yoghurt, it’s a comforting dessert that feels both traditional and elegant, perfect for gatherings or a relaxed afternoon treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The semolina gives the cake a unique, tender crumb that stays moist for days
• Orange blossom water adds a delicate floral aroma without overpowering
• Honey spiced yoghurt balances sweetness with creaminess and warmth
• Simple ingredients with impressive, bakery-style results
• Perfect for make-ahead serving, as the flavor improves over time

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the semolina cake

• Fine semolina, 250 g (2 cups)
• All-purpose flour, 60 g (½ cup)
• Baking powder, 10 g (2½ teaspoons)
• Salt, ¼ teaspoon
• Granulated sugar, 150 g (¾ cup)
• Unsalted butter, melted and cooled, 120 g (½ cup)
• Plain yoghurt, 180 g (¾ cup)
• Eggs, 2 large
• Orange zest, from 2 oranges
• Orange juice, freshly squeezed, 120 ml (½ cup)
• Orange blossom water, 2 tablespoons
• Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon

For the honey syrup

• Honey, 120 ml (½ cup)
• Water, 120 ml (½ cup)
• Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon
• Orange blossom water, 1 tablespoon

For the honey spiced yoghurt

• Thick plain yoghurt or Greek-style yoghurt, 300 g (1¼ cups)
• Honey, 3 tablespoons
• Ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon
• Ground cardamom, ¼ teaspoon
• Vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 23 cm round baking pan.
2. In a bowl, mix semolina, flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk sugar, melted butter, yoghurt, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, orange blossom water, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake bakes, prepare the syrup by simmering honey, water, and lemon juice for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in orange blossom water.
8. Once the cake is out of the oven, poke holes over the surface and slowly pour the warm syrup evenly over the cake. Allow it to soak and cool completely.
9. For the yoghurt, mix yoghurt, honey, cinnamon, cardamom, and vanilla until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.
10. Serve slices of cake with a generous spoon of honey spiced yoghurt on top or on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8 to 10 slices
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 40 minutes
• Cooling and soaking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Replace orange juice with mandarin or tangerine juice for a softer citrus flavor
• Add finely chopped almonds or pistachios to the batter for texture
• Flavor the yoghurt with a pinch of ground nutmeg or clove for deeper spice
• Use rose water instead of orange blossom water for a different floral note

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The yoghurt should be kept refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cake is best served at room temperature and does not require reheating, but can be gently warmed if preferred.

FAQs

Can I make this cake a day in advance?

Yes, this cake actually tastes better the next day as the syrup fully absorbs into the semolina.

Is semolina the same as regular flour?

No, semolina is coarser than flour and gives the cake a distinct texture and bite.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can slightly reduce the honey in the syrup or yoghurt, but the syrup is essential for moisture.

What type of yoghurt works best?

Thick plain yoghurt or Greek-style yoghurt gives the creamiest result.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, the cake can be frozen without the yoghurt topping for up to 2 months.

Does orange blossom water taste strong?

Used in small amounts, it adds a gentle floral aroma rather than a strong flavor.

Can I make this without eggs?

You can substitute each egg with 60 ml (¼ cup) yoghurt, though the texture will be slightly denser.

Why is my cake dense?

Overmixing or using coarse semolina can make the cake heavier.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, use the same amount of mild olive oil for a lighter, fruity note.

How should I serve this cake?

It’s best served at room temperature with honey spiced yoghurt and fresh citrus slices if desired.

Conclusion

Orange blossom semolina cake with honey spiced yoghurt is a beautifully balanced dessert that combines comforting texture with fragrant citrus and floral flavors. Whether served for guests or enjoyed slowly with tea, this cake delivers warmth, elegance, and lasting moisture in every bite.

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