If you’re craving a dessert that’s soft, slightly grainy, and soaked in delicious flavor, this Semolina Cake with Cream is a must-try. Popular across Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines (like Basbousa or Revani), this cake combines a tender semolina base with luscious cream for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Perfect for tea time, special occasions, or whenever you want something indulgent yet comforting!
✨ Why You’ll Love This Cake
- 🧁 Unique soft texture from semolina
- 🥛 Rich creamy layer for extra indulgence
- 🍯 Lightly sweet and perfectly balanced
- 🌍 Inspired by traditional Middle Eastern desserts
- 🎉 Great for gatherings and celebrations
📝 Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup semolina (fine)
- 1 cup yogurt
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Layer:
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
🍳 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- 8×8 baking dish
- Spatula
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Syrup
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then add lemon juice and simmer for 5 minutes. Let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cake Batter
In a bowl, mix semolina, yogurt, sugar, oil, baking powder, and vanilla. Let the mixture rest for 10–15 minutes so the semolina absorbs moisture.
3. Prepare the Cream
In a saucepan, whisk milk, cornstarch, and sugar. Cook on medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat, add vanilla and heavy cream, and let cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Pour half of the semolina batter into a greased baking dish
- Spread the cream evenly over it
- Add the remaining batter on top and smooth gently
5. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until golden on top.
6. Add Syrup
While the cake is still warm, pour the cooled syrup evenly over it. Let it soak completely.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle coconut flakes on top 🥥
- Garnish with crushed pistachios 🌰
- Serve with tea or Arabic coffee ☕
- Chill slightly for a firmer texture
💡 Pro Tips
- Let the cake rest after adding syrup—it improves flavor
- Don’t skip resting the batter before baking
- Use fine semolina for a smoother texture
- Adjust syrup sweetness to your preference
🔄 Variations to Try
- 🍊 Add orange blossom water for authentic flavor
- 🍫 Add chocolate chips for a modern twist
- 🥥 Mix coconut into the batter
- 🍓 Serve with fresh berries for contrast
🧾 Nutrition (Approx. per slice)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 6g
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Semolina Cake with Cream is a beautiful fusion of tradition and indulgence. The soft, syrup-soaked base paired with a creamy center creates a dessert that’s both comforting and luxurious.
Whether you’re making it for guests or just treating yourself, this cake is guaranteed to impress with its unique texture and rich flavor.