Description
A classic, moist semolina sponge cake soaked in a zesty orange and lemon syrup, popular across Turkey and the Middle East.
Ingredients
3 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cup semolina (medium grain)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
For the Syrup: 2 cups sugar, 2.5 cups water, 1/2 orange (juiced), 1/2 lemon (juiced)
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the syrup ingredients (sugar, water, citrus juices) in a pot and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the eggs and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy, usually about 4-5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and orange zest until well combined.
Step 5: Fold in the semolina, flour, and baking powder gently until no large lumps remain.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Immediately after removing the cake from the oven, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot cake.
Step 8: Allow the cake to rest for at least 2 hours to fully absorb the syrup before slicing and serving.
Notes
Always ensure the syrup is cold and the cake is hot for the best absorption results.
- Prep Time: PT20M
- Cook Time: PT35M
- Category: Desserts & Baked Goods
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
