Description
Saffron Pistachio Basbousa is a sumptuous Middle Eastern dessert that captivates with its rich flavors and moist texture. This delightful semolina cake, infused with aromatic saffron and topped with crunchy pistachios, is perfect for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to elegant celebrations. Its golden hue and beautiful presentation make it a showstopper on any dessert table. The recipe is straightforward, allowing both novice and experienced bakers to create this exotic treat with ease. Once baked, the cake is soaked in a fragrant saffron syrup, ensuring each bite is not only delicious but also irresistibly moist. Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this Saffron Pistachio Basbousa and impress your guests with a true Middle Eastern delicacy.
Ingredients
- 200 g semolina (1 ¼ cups)
- 100 g all-purpose flour (¾ cup)
- 150 g sugar (¾ cup)
- 2 large eggs
- 120 ml whole milk (½ cup)
- 100 g unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
- 1 tsp saffron threads
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp rosewater
- 100 ml water (½ cup)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix semolina, flour, baking powder, cardamom, and cinnamon.
- In a larger bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and rosewater until smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and let it settle for about 10 minutes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown; test doneness with a toothpick.
- For the saffron syrup: Boil sugar, water, saffron threads, and lemon juice in a saucepan for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Immediately pour the hot syrup over the baked basbousa once out of the oven. Let cool for about 10 minutes before garnishing with pistachios.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg