Mediterranean Orange Semolina Yogurt Cake
This classic Mediterranean-style dessert is inspired by Greek and Turkish semolina cakes—but made lighter and healthier. Fine semolina gives it a soft, moist crumb, orange juice adds natural sweetness, and yogurt keeps it tender without oil or butter. It’s lightly sweet, aromatic, and perfect with tea or coffee.
⏱ Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~55–60 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
1 cup fine semolina (suji)
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup sugar (or ⅓ cup if you prefer less sweet)
1½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
¾ cup low-fat plain yogurt
½ cup fresh orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1 tsp vanilla essence
2–3 tbsp water or milk (if batter is thick)
Optional Topping
1 tbsp chopped pistachios or almonds
Light dusting of powdered sugar (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Line a small cake pan with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix semolina, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, whisk yogurt, orange juice, zest, and vanilla.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently.
6. Rest batter for 5 minutes (important for soft texture).
7. If batter is thick, add water/milk 1 tbsp at a time.
8. Pour batter into prepared pan.
9. Sprinkle nuts on top if using.
10. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
11. Cool slightly, slice, and serve.
🌟 Tips (Game-Changer)
Use fresh orange juice, not packed
Let semolina rest—it makes the cake tender
Don’t overbake or it’ll dry
Even better the next day after flavors settle
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this without sugar?
Yes—use date paste or honey (½ cup date paste works well).
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, replace flour with almond flour or oat flour.
Q: Is this good for weight loss?
Yes, in moderation—no oil, low fat, portion-controlled.
Q: Can I add syrup like traditional basbousa?
You can, but it’s already moist without it.
🧮 Nutritional Information
Calories: 180–200 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fat: 2–3 g
Fiber: 2 g
Added Oil: 0 g