Semolina Cake

Semolina Cake: A Quick and Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

In a world where sophisticated desserts grace our tables, semolina cake proves to be a true indulgence of simplicity. With a fluffy texture and a sweet-sour taste, this cake blends tradition with innovation. At the heart of this recipe lies semolina, an ingredient that adds a note of consistency and flavor. By cooking this cake, you connect with a rich culinary history, where sweets have always been a symbol of joy and family gatherings.

Necessary ingredients:

For the cake:
- 3 large eggs (about 150 g)
- 3/4 cup of oil (about 180 ml)
- 1 cup of sugar (about 200 g)
- 1 cup of orange juice or water (about 240 ml)
- 1 + 1/2 cups of flour (about 190 g)
- 1 + 1/2 cups of semolina (about 190 g)
- 1 + 1/2 sachets of baking powder (about 7 g)
- 1 + 1/2 sachets of vanilla sugar (about 10 g)
- 50 g of raisins or dried cranberries
- 50 g of ground or chopped nuts

For the syrup:
- 1 + 1/2 cups of water (about 360 ml)
- 1 + 1/2 cups of sugar (about 300 g)
- Juice of one lemon (about 30 ml)

Step by step:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by preparing all the ingredients. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. If you choose raisins, you can hydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes to make them juicier.

2. Beat the eggs: In the mixer bowl, add the eggs and sugar. Beat them on high speed until the mixture becomes a light yellow, fluffy, and airy foam. This is a crucial step, as the incorporated air will contribute to the cake's light texture.

3. Add the oil and salt: Continuing to mix, gradually add the oil and a pinch of salt. The salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

4. Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, semolina, baking powder, and vanilla sugar. This step will ensure an even distribution of the leavening agents, so the cake rises evenly.

5. Combine the mixtures: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the egg mixture, alternating with the orange juice or water. Gently mix with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed, so as not to lose the air in the mixture.

6. Add the raisins and nuts: Finally, add the raisins and nuts, gently mixing to evenly distribute them in the batter.

7. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 165 degrees Celsius. It is important that it is well heated before putting the cake in, to achieve even baking.

8. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into a round pan or two loaf pans, depending on your preference. Bake the cake for 45 minutes or until it turns golden and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.

9. Prepare the syrup: While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. Put the water and sugar in a pot and bring to a boil. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved, then add the lemon juice. Let the syrup boil for 2-3 minutes, then let it cool slightly.

10. Finish the cake: After the cake is baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Start soaking it with the warm syrup, pouring it evenly over the surface. The syrup will add moisture and enhance the cake's flavor.

11. Serving: Once the cake has completely cooled, you can cut it into servings and serve. It is delicious both plain and accompanied by a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy contrast.

Practical tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add orange or lemon zest to the cake batter.
- Substitute the nuts with pistachios or almonds for a different texture.
- If you want a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar by 20% and add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
How can I store the cake? The semolina cake stores excellently at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
Can I replace the semolina? You can use almond flour or oat flour, but the texture will be different.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake offers a good source of carbohydrates, healthy fats from oil, and protein from eggs. Raisins and nuts provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced dessert.

Delicious pairings:
The semolina cake pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic tea or coffee. Additionally, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice will complement the flavor of this wonderful dessert.

In conclusion, semolina cake is an ideal choice for moments of indulgence, as well as for gatherings with family or friends. With a little effort and simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that will impress everyone. Experiment and personalize the recipe to your taste, and every slice will be a joy!

 Ingredients: 3 large eggs, 3/4 cup of oil, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of orange juice or water, 1 + 1/2 cups of flour, 1 + 1/2 cups of semolina, 1 and 1/2 packets of baking powder, 1 and 1/2 packets of vanilla sugar, 50 g of raisins or dried cranberries, 50 g of chopped walnuts. Syrup: 1 + 1/2 cups of water, 1 + 1/2 cups of sugar, lemon juice.