Walnut & Carrot Basbousa is a delightful twist on the traditional Middle Eastern semolina cake, combining the nutty richness of walnuts with the sweet earthiness of carrots. This cake is moist, slightly dense, and infused with aromatic flavors, making it perfect for tea time or festive occasions. The golden-baked semolina base absorbs a fragrant syrup, ensuring every bite is soft, sweet, and irresistible.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups coarse semolina
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup yogurt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup grated carrots
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional)
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine semolina, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
- Add melted butter, yogurt, and milk, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
- Fold in grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and shredded coconut.
Step 2: Baking the Basbousa
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 3: Making the Syrup
- While the cake is baking, heat sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add lemon juice and rose water.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Soaking the Cake
- Once the basbousa is baked, immediately pour the warm syrup over the hot cake.
- Let it absorb for 15 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Serving
- Garnish with extra walnuts or coconut.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with tea or coffee.
Tips for the Best Basbousa
- Use coarse semolina for the best texture.
- Grate carrots finely to blend seamlessly into the batter.
- Let the syrup soak in for a moist, flavorful cake.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
This Walnut & Carrot Basbousa is a unique, aromatic, and delicious take on a classic dessert. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just treating yourself, it’s sure to impress! 🍰✨
Want more Middle Eastern dessert ideas? Let me know what you’re craving! 😊
You can also check out this recipe variation for more inspiration!