The Orange Cardamom Semolina Cake Recipe is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dessert that combines the nutty texture of semolina with the bright, citrusy zing of fresh orange zest and the warm, fragrant spice of ground cardamom. This cake has a wonderfully moist crumb thanks to the yogurt, and its simplicity is truly the secret behind its charming and irresistible flavor profile. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon tea or a special gathering, this recipe lends itself to joyful sharing and savoring every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and texture in this cake. Each component plays a vital role, from lending moisture to adding aroma and sweetness.
- Semolina: Provides a slightly coarse texture that makes the cake uniquely tender and substantial.
- Yogurt: Keeps the cake moist while adding a subtle tanginess that lifts the flavor.
- Sugar: Sweetens the batter to just the right amount without overpowering the citrus and spice.
- Orange zest: Infuses the cake with fresh, vibrant citrus notes that complement the spices beautifully.
- Ground cardamom: Offers warm, aromatic undertones that gently elevate the flavor beyond ordinary desserts.
How to Make Orange Cardamom Semolina Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
Begin by combining semolina, sugar, and ground cardamom in a mixing bowl. Stir these dry ingredients well to evenly distribute the fragrant spice throughout the mixture.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, fold the yogurt and fresh orange zest into the dry ingredients. The yogurt will hydrate the semolina, creating a luscious, thick batter that promises a moist and tender crumb after baking.
Step 3: Transfer and Bake
Pour the batter into a lightly greased baking pan, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Then, slide the pan into a preheated oven set to 350°F. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan. This resting time is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly for slicing and serving.
How to Serve Orange Cardamom Semolina Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance presentations with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of toasted almond flakes. A few fresh mint leaves can also add a lovely pop of color and a refreshing hint to balance the warm spices.
Side Dishes
Pair the cake with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey to complement the orange and cardamom flavors. A cup of spiced chai or black tea makes the perfect beverage companion for this dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the cake into small squares for a charming tea-time treat or serve alongside vanilla ice cream and candied orange slices for a sophisticated dessert plate that will impress guests effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Orange Cardamom Semolina Cake stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This preserves the delicate moisture and keeps the cake fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
This cake freezes well for longer storage. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 1 month, which makes it a convenient make-ahead dessert option.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm after storage, simply reheat slices in a microwave for about 20 seconds or pop them in a low oven until warmed through. The flavors and texture revive beautifully with a little heat.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular flour for semolina in this recipe?
While you can use regular flour, semolina gives the cake its distinctive coarse yet tender texture and nutty flavor. Using flour will result in a softer but less textured cake.
Is it necessary to use fresh orange zest?
Fresh orange zest is highly recommended because it provides vibrant, bright citrus oils that dried zest or extracts cannot replicate, bringing the cake to life with fresh aroma.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Yes, by replacing yogurt with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt and using a suitable egg replacer if needed, you can create a vegan version that is still moist and flavorful.
What kind of cardamom should I use?
Ground green cardamom is preferred for its sweet and floral notes. Freshly ground pods will yield the best aroma, but pre-ground cardamom from a jar also works well.
How does this cake compare to other Mediterranean desserts?
This Orange Cardamom Semolina Cake Recipe stands out by combining the earthy texture of semolina with aromatic spices and citrus, delivering a simple yet sophisticated dessert that differs from richer options like baklava.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s both comforting and distinctive, you really must give the Orange Cardamom Semolina Cake Recipe a try. Its unique texture and warm, citrus-spiced flavor make it an absolute favorite in my kitchen and one I guarantee you’ll enjoy sharing with friends and family. Happy baking!
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Orange Cardamom Semolina Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Orange Cardamom Semolina Cake is a fragrant and moist Mediterranean-inspired dessert featuring the nutty texture of semolina combined with the zesty brightness of orange and the warm spice of cardamom. Lightly sweetened and balanced with creamy yogurt, this cake is perfect for a comforting treat or elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the semolina, plain yogurt, granulated sugar, orange zest, and ground cardamom. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and a smooth batter forms.
- Pour into pan: Grease a baking pan (8-inch round or square) lightly with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan on the middle rack of the oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the cake is golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool before slicing: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into squares or wedges for serving.
Notes
- This cake is a traditional Mediterranean-style dessert, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.
- For extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of honey or a light orange syrup after baking.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, ensure to use gluten-free semolina or substitute with fine cornmeal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
