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Rosewater and Orange Blossom Semolina Cake

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A moist and fragrant Middle Eastern–inspired semolina cake delicately flavored with rosewater and orange blossom water. Soaked in a floral syrup and topped with almonds, this eggless dessert is easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or tea time.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 20 small pieces
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • For the syrup:
  • 1½ cups water
  • 1¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rosewater
  • 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 cardamom pod
  • For the cake:
  • 1½ cups semolina flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter
  • ½ cup canola oil
  • ¼ cup desiccated coconut
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon tahini paste (for greasing)
  • 20 blanched almonds

Instructions

  1. Make the syrup: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine water, sugar, rosewater, orange blossom water, lemon juice, and cardamom pod. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  2. Make the cake batter: In a bowl, mix semolina, baking powder, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, oil, and coconut. Stir until combined. Add 3 tablespoons of the cooled syrup and mix well. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
  3. Prepare the pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a rectangular baking dish with tahini paste. Spread the rested batter into the dish evenly.
  4. Score the surface into 20 equal pieces and press a blanched almond into the center of each piece.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes. Then broil for 1–2 minutes to lightly brown the top. Remove and let cool completely.
  6. Dip and serve: Once cooled, use a fork to dip each piece briefly into the cooled syrup. Taste for sweetness and dip again if desired. Serve as is or with fresh fruit.

Notes

  • Resting the batter is essential for a moist, evenly textured cake.
  • Rosewater and orange blossom add floral depth—adjust to taste.
  • Dipping in syrup enhances flavor and moistness but is optional.
  • Cake improves after resting as flavors continue to meld.
  • Omit coconut for a simpler texture if preferred.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/rosewater-and-orange-blossom-semolina-cake/