Ingredients
For the Basbousa:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup desiccated coconut
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup water (for the syrup)
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cream Filling:
- In a saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Basbousa:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish (around 9×9 inches).
- In a large bowl, mix together the semolina, flour, sugar, desiccated coconut, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the yogurt, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top evenly.
- Use your finger to create small indentations across the surface of the batter.
- Bake:
- Bake the basbousa for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove from the oven.
- Stuff the Basbousa:
- Once the basbousa is baked, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Gently slice through the center of the basbousa to create a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Fill the pocket with the cooled cream filling.
- Add the Syrup:
- While the basbousa is still warm, pour the cooled sugar syrup evenly over the top. Let it absorb for about 10 minutes.
- Serve:
- Cut the basbousa into squares or diamond shapes, and serve. Enjoy the rich, creamy filling inside the soft, syrup-soaked cake!