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Coconut Basbousa (Egyptian Semolina Cake)

Sweet, chewy Egyptian semolina cake with shredded coconut, topped with a clove-studded almond. Baked until golden, then soaked in simple syrup for that signature sticky-tender crumb.

Total time
28 min
Servings
12
Calories
198
Protein
2g
Coconut Basbousa (Egyptian Semolina Cake)
indulgentsimpleegyptianvegetarianchewysoftDessertweeknight

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Mix sweetened coconut, semolina, and yogurt in a bowl until fully combined and the dough holds together.

  2. Step 2

    Spread dough evenly in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cut into 12 diamond or square pieces.

  3. Step 3

    Place one almond and one clove on top of each piece. Sprinkle unsweetened coconut all over.

  4. Step 4

    Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes until golden brown on top and edges pull away from the pan.

  5. Step 5

    While baking, combine 1 cup water, 1.25 cups sugar, and 1 tbsp white vinegar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves, ~4 minutes. Remove from heat.

  6. Step 6

    Pour warm syrup over hot basbousa as soon as it comes out of the oven. Let rest 15 minutes before serving.

Tools you’ll need

  • mixing bowl
  • 9×13 baking dish
  • kitchen knife
  • saucepan
  • oven (preheated to 350°F)

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