Basbousa, a delightful Middle Eastern dessert, captures the essence of comfort food with its lovely texture and sweetness. Often enjoyed during special occasions or family gatherings, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a heavenly treat that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the world of Basbousa and learn how to craft this ultimate easy recipe!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 300
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Ultimate Easy Basbousa Recipe
This Ultimate Easy Basbousa Recipe stands out because it integrates moist, tender textures with a delightful sweetness that’s not overpowering. The semolina gives the cake its characteristic grainy texture, while the yogurt adds moisture and richness. What truly elevates this treat is the simple syrup drizzled on top, soaking into the cake for maximum flavor. Plus, the recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for both novice and experienced home cooks.
How to Make Ultimate Easy Basbousa Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Almonds or coconut for topping (optional)
- Syrup (made from equal parts sugar and water)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Mixing
In a mixing bowl, combine the semolina, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, and baking powder. Whisk the mixture well until you achieve a smooth batter. The combined ingredients create a lovely creamy base that will rise beautifully in the oven.
Step 3: Cooking
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish. If you’d like, score the top with a knife in a diamond pattern and place an almond on each piece for an attractive presentation. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Finishing
While the basbousa is baking, prepare the syrup by boiling equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, then let it cool. Once the basbousa is baked, pour the cooled syrup generously over it. Allow the cake to soak up the syrup and cool completely before serving for the best flavor.
How to Serve Ultimate Easy Basbousa Recipe
Basbousa is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. You can serve it as a dessert after dinner or bring it to potlucks and gatherings. For an extra touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit.
How to Store Ultimate Easy Basbousa Recipe
Store leftover basbousa in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving again.
Expert Tips for Perfect Ultimate Easy Basbousa Recipe
- Ensure your oven is preheated for even cooking.
- Don’t skip the syrup soaking; it’s key to achieving that moist texture.
- For variations, you can add a splash of rose or orange blossom water to the syrup for a fragrant twist.
- Experiment with toppings like shredded coconut or crushed pistachios for added flavor and crunch.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Basbousa: Stir in a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts into the batter before baking.
- Cocoa Basbousa: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
- Fruit-Topped Basbousa: Serve with slices of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or pomegranate seeds, for a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of flour instead of semolina?
While semolina is preferred for texture, using fine all-purpose flour can be a substitute but may change the overall texture of the cake. -
Is it necessary to add syrup?
Yes, syrup helps to keep the basbousa moist and enhances its sweetness, making it a delicious treat. -
Can I freeze basbousa?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving. -
How do I know when basbousa is done baking?
When the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s time to take it out of the oven. -
Can I make basbousa without yogurt?
If you’re out of yogurt, you can substitute it with an equal amount of sour cream or thick buttermilk.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Easy Basbousa Recipe is a delightful dessert that is not only simple to make but sure to impress anyone who gets a taste. It brings the warmth of Middle Eastern flavors into your kitchen with just a few ingredients and easy steps. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a sweet treat after dinner, this cake is a must-try. Gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this deliciously sweet and moist dessert that your friends and family will adore!
Print
Ultimate Easy Basbousa
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Middle Eastern dessert with a lovely texture and sweetness, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Almonds or coconut for topping (optional)
- Syrup (made from equal parts sugar and water)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the semolina, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, and baking powder. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, score the top, and place almonds if desired. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the syrup by boiling equal parts sugar and water. Once basbousa is baked, pour syrup over it and let it soak before serving.
Notes
Store leftover basbousa in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
