Hey food lovers! Ready to dive into a seriously delicious dessert? Today, we're whipping up a fantastic Basbousa recipe with coconut milk. This is not your average semolina cake; it's a moist, flavorful treat that's perfect for any occasion. Basbousa, sometimes called Harissa, is a traditional Middle Eastern and North African sweet cake. It's known for its unique texture, which is both crumbly and incredibly soft, thanks to the semolina. The addition of coconut milk in this recipe takes it to a whole new level of yum, adding a subtle sweetness and a delightful aroma that will make your kitchen smell like paradise. So, gather your ingredients, and let's get baking! We are going to go through every step of this basbousa recipe. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe.

The Magic of Basbousa: A Coconutty Delight

Alright, guys, let's talk about what makes this Basbousa recipe with coconut milk so special. First off, it’s all about the texture. The semolina gives it a beautiful, slightly coarse crumb, while the coconut milk ensures it stays wonderfully moist. The traditional version is already amazing, but the coconut milk adds a tropical twist that’s just irresistible. Secondly, the flavor profile is something to behold. We are going to infuse this cake with a delicate balance of sweetness, thanks to the syrup, and a hint of coconut. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is pure bliss. When you bite into a piece, you’ll experience a delightful contrast of textures: a slightly crispy top, a soft and tender interior, and a sweet, syrupy finish. We're using simple ingredients, and easy-to-follow steps. It’s a great recipe for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, the coconut milk not only adds flavor and moisture but also makes the cake naturally a bit lighter and more refreshing. I am sure everyone in the family will enjoy this basbousa recipe. It's really that good! This recipe is a showstopper, and it's easier to make than you might think. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this Basbousa recipe with coconut milk is a must-try. So, let’s get started. I am excited to share this family recipe with you. It is a family favorite.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we start with the recipe, let's gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible Basbousa recipe with coconut milk:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups fine semolina
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: slivered almonds for topping

For the Syrup:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional, but highly recommended for flavor)

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready. It’s always a good idea to measure everything out beforehand. This will make the baking process a lot smoother. I know it sounds like a lot, but it is super easy. The key is to have everything ready to go. The syrup ingredients are as important as the cake ingredients. The syrup is what makes this cake so special.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Your Basbousa

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your perfect Basbousa recipe with coconut milk:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This is super important to prevent the cake from sticking. This step will make your life easier when the cake is ready. Make sure to cover the entire pan so you won't have to worry about the cake sticking. Set the pan aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the semolina, shredded coconut, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk everything together until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix the coconut milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract. Then, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well. Make sure everything is evenly incorporated. Don’t overmix; just until everything is combined. The batter should be thick but pourable. If you want, you can also add some slivered almonds on top.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly. If you're using almonds, sprinkle them over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your oven to make sure it doesn’t burn. Baking times can vary depending on the oven.

Step 4: Prepare the Syrup

While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom water (if using). Let the syrup cool slightly.

Step 5: Soak and Cool

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot cake. Let the cake cool completely in the pan. This is super important! The cake needs to absorb all that delicious syrup. Once cooled, cut into diamond or square shapes and serve. Enjoy this amazing Basbousa recipe with coconut milk!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Basbousa

Want to make sure your Basbousa recipe with coconut milk is absolutely perfect? Here are some tips and tricks:

• Quality Semolina: Use fine semolina for the best texture. It’s the star of the show!
• Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined.
• Warm Syrup, Hot Cake: Pour the warm syrup over the hot cake for maximum absorption.
• Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before cutting and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
• Add Flavor: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different extracts or spices. Rose water or cardamom can add a unique twist.

Variations to Try

Want to shake things up? Here are a few variations you can try with this Basbousa recipe with coconut milk:

• Chocolate Basbousa: Add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Basbousa: Add chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios to the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
• Lemon Basbousa: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a zesty, refreshing cake.

Serving and Storing Your Basbousa

Serving:

Serve your Basbousa recipe with coconut milk at room temperature. It’s great on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. You can also garnish with extra shredded coconut or slivered almonds.

Storing:

Store any leftover basbousa in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can also store it in the refrigerator, but it might dry out a bit. If you store it in the fridge, make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Basbousa Bliss

So there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know about making a fantastic Basbousa recipe with coconut milk. This recipe is easy, delicious, and sure to become a favorite. Baking this cake is a rewarding experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen, the anticipation while it bakes, and the first bite of that sweet, moist cake… it's all worth it. I am excited for you to give this recipe a try. Have fun baking! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own. And most importantly, enjoy the process. Happy baking!