Minted Orange Blossom Semolina Cake

Delve into the aromatic world of Moroccan desserts with our Minted Orange Blossom Semolina Cake—a dessert that captures the essence of a North African sunset in every bite. This cake marries the rich textures of semolina with the refreshing zest of orange and mint, creating a harmony of flavors that is both exotic and comforting. Traditionally served during special occasions, this cake offers an irresistible blend of sweetness and fragrance.
“In Morocco, desserts are not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the senses.”
Highlights
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 280kcal
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups semolina flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
5 large eggs
1/2 cup orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
For the Orange Blossom Syrup:
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
2 tablespoons orange blossom water
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round cake pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour, tapping out the excess.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together semolina flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in orange juice, zest, and rose water (if using).
Combine Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture gradually, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Cake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare Orange Blossom Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves, then add orange juice and orange blossom water. Bring to a simmer for 5 minutes or until syrupy. Let the syrup cool slightly.
Pierce and Soak Cake: Using a skewer, pierce holes all over the cooled cake. Slowly pour the orange blossom syrup over the cake, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Garnish: Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 3g
Notes
- For a more intense orange flavor, add 1 teaspoon of orange extract to the cake batter.
- The cake can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
title: “Minted Orange Blossom Semolina Cake” date: 2025-04-01T02:29:08-00:00 authors: [“Ava”] categories: [“Desserts”, “Bakery”, “Moroccan”] tags: [] featured_image: “/media/posts/moroccan-semolina-cake.webp” thumbnail: “/media/posts/thumbnails/moroccan-semolina-cake_thumb.webp” image_caption: “Aromatic and moist, this Moroccan Semolina Cake is adorned with orange blossom syrup and fresh mint leaves.” description: “Experience the enchanting flavors of Morocco with this delightful semolina cake, infused with citrus notes and a hint of floral elegance from orange blossoms. Perfect for any occasion or as an indulgent treat to enjoy at home.”