Have you ever wanted to try a dessert that’s simple yet full of flavor? That’s exactly what Basbousa offers. This traditional Middle East sweet cake is made primarily from semolina, giving it a slightly grainy, nutty texture.

When soaked in syrup, it becomes moist, soft, and incredibly satisfying. Basbousa has been a staple in Egyptian kitchens for generations, and today we’ll show step by step how to make it at home. By the end of this guide, we can enjoy a taste of Egypt right in our own kitchen!

Ingredients Needed

For the cake:

- 500g semolina

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 3 cups plain yogurt

- 1 small teaspoon yeast

- ¾ cup oil or melted butter

- 2 tablespoons grated coconut (optional, for extra texture)

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 cup sugar

For the syrup:

- 1 cup sugar

- ½ cup water

- A few drops of lemon juice

These ingredients are simple but combine to create a dessert that is moist, sweet, and delicious.

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, sift together 500g semolina, 2 tablespoons flour, and 1 small teaspoon yeast.

2. Add 1 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir lightly to mix.

3. Pour in 3 cups plain yogurt and ¾ cup oil (or melted butter).

4. If desired, add 2 tablespoons grated coconut for a subtle coconut flavor.

5. Mix everything thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until the batter is smooth, thick, and well combined. Slight stickiness is normal—it’s how Basbousa should feel before baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

1. Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with oil or butter.

2. Pour the batter evenly into the pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.

3. Optionally, score the top into diamond or square shapes. This helps the syrup soak evenly later.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 240°C (465°F).

2. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

3. Keep a close watch to avoid burning. The aroma will fill the kitchen with a warm, sweet scent that makes waiting worthwhile.

Step 4: Make the Syrup

1. While the cake is baking, combine 1 cup sugar, ½ cup water, and a few drops of lemon juice in a small saucepan.

2. Heat gently over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

3. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat. The syrup should be warm when poured over the cake.

Step 5: Pour the Syrup

1. When the cake comes out of the oven, allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes.

2. Pour the syrup evenly over the hot cake. The Basbousa will gradually absorb the syrup, becoming soft and sweet.

3. Allow it to sit for at least 15–20 minutes before serving. This step ensures every piece is moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Cut along the pre-scored lines or into desired shapes.

2. Optionally, sprinkle extra grated coconut or chopped nuts on top for decoration.

3. Serve warm or at room temperature. Basbousa pairs perfectly with tea or coffee, or it can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat. Sharing it with friends and family adds a touch of joy to any day.

Tips for the Best Basbousa

- For extra moistness, slightly reduce the semolina or add an additional tablespoon of yogurt.

- Make sure the syrup is warm, not cold, when pouring it over the cake to ensure it soaks in properly.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. The cake may become even softer after a few hours as it fully absorbs the syrup.

Enjoy Every Bite

We hope this step-by-step guide inspires us to try something new and delicious. Traditional Basbousa is easy to make, comforting, and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, we can bring the flavors of Egypt into our home. So let’s try it, enjoy the sweet aroma filling our kitchen, and share the delight with everyone around us—our kitchen might just become the sweetest place today!