Traditional Semolina Cake with Cream (Basbousa)

Introduction
Basbousa, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert, is a semolina cake soaked in sweet syrup and topped with a luscious cream layer. It’s rich, moist, and delightfully simple to make. Perfect for festive occasions or a cozy dessert at home, this semolina cake with cream will transport your taste buds to a world of sweet indulgence.

Ingredients
For the Cake:

2 cups semolina
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup milk (if needed for consistency)
1/4 cup slivered almonds or desiccated coconut (optional, for topping)
For the Cream Filling:

2 cups whole milk
3 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Sugar Syrup:

1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup water
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional, for aroma)
How to Make
Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup