Orange Almond Semolina Cake Recipe: A Citrus Lover’s Dream!

One rainy afternoon, with my little ones by my side, I decided to experiment with a new dessert idea—a fragrant Orange Almond Semolina Cake. Combining the nutty richness of almonds with the bright, citrusy zest of oranges, this cake quickly became a family favorite.

Its tender crumb, paired with the luscious sweetness of orange syrup, reminds me of classic Mediterranean treats like a Greek orange syrup cake or a Basbousa recipe. If you’re a fan of semolina cake recipes, this one will easily become a go-to. Trust me, you’re going to love it as much as my family does!

What Makes My Orange Almond Semolina Cake Recipe Unique?

Most semolina cake recipes rely on a heavy syrup for moisture, but my version has a fresh twist. Instead of just sugar syrup, this cake uses freshly squeezed orange juice and a hint of orange blossom water, creating a dessert that’s both aromatic and refreshing.

The addition of almond meal (or almond flour) enhances the flavor and adds a soft richness to the texture. It’s inspired by Mediterranean favorites like a Greek cake or even a Moroccan semolina cake. To make it even more special, you can try an upside-down version with thin slices of candied oranges baked at the bottom of the pan!

Ingredients List For Orange Almond Semolina Cake Recipe

Cake Base:

• 1 cup (150g) fine semolina (semolina flour or rava flour can also work)
• ½ cup (50g) almond meal (or almond flour)
• ¾ cup (150g) sugar
• ½ cup (125ml) plain yogurt
• ½ cup (125ml) freshly squeezed orange juice (blood orange juice adds a unique touch)
• ⅓ cup (80ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (freshly grated)

Syrup:

• ½ cup (100g) sugar
• ½ cup (125ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional, but highly recommended)

Garnish (optional):

• A handful of slivered almonds
• A dusting of powdered sugar
• Thinly sliced candied orange peels

Substitutions and Variations

Ingredient Alternatives:

1. Yogurt: Use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option. Alternatively, switch to Greek yogurt to create a richer, Greek cake-inspired version.
2. Ground Almonds: Swap almond meal with almond flour or finely ground hazelnuts for a nuttier profile.
3. Semolina Flour: If you’re out of semolina, try using suji (suji cake lovers, take note!).

Flavor Twists:

1. Add ½ teaspoon of cardamom for a Moroccan flavor.
2. Replace orange juice with blood orange juice for a vibrant color and unique flavor.
3. Try turning this into a whole orange cake by incorporating finely blended oranges into the batter, inspired by a Sicilian whole orange cake recipe.

Orange Almond Semolina Cake Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. For a twist, try an upside-down version with candied orange slices placed at the bottom of the pan.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the semolina (semolina flour), almond meal, sugar, and baking powder. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt, orange juice, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest. If you’re aiming for a healthy orange cake, consider reducing the sugar slightly and increasing the orange zest for natural sweetness.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Fold the mixture gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to preserve the light texture, as you would with a butter cake.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The golden color is reminiscent of a Sicilian orange cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Syrup

While the cake bakes, prepare the syrup. Combine sugar and orange juice in a saucepan, heating gently until the sugar dissolves. Stir in orange blossom water for an extra layer of fragrance.

Step 7: Soak the Cake

After the cake comes out of the oven, poke small holes all over with a skewer and pour the warm syrup evenly on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Orange Almond Semolina Cake

1. Using coarse semolina: Fine semolina flour is key for a soft, tender texture.
2. Skipping the syrup: It’s essential for keeping the cake moist, much like a Greek orange syrup cake or a Basbousa recipe.
3. Overbaking the cake: Semolina cakes can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on the baking time.

Orange Almond Semolina Cake Serving and Presentation Tips

For a Mediterranean touch, garnish the cake with slivered almonds, powdered sugar, or candied orange peels. If you’ve made the upside-down version, let the caramelized orange slices shine by skipping extra toppings.

Serve it on a rustic wooden platter or a Moroccan-inspired dish to enhance the visual appeal. Pair with a cup of Moroccan mint tea or freshly brewed coffee.

How to Serve Orange Almond Semolina Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess. For a healthier option, serve it with a side of fresh fruit, such as blood oranges or berries.

It also makes an excellent dessert for special occasions or a light tea-time snack. You can serve it alongside savory Mediterranean dishes, like couscous or roasted vegetables, to create a balanced meal.

Extra Recipe Tips For Orange Almond Semolina Cake

1. Make Ahead: Like a Sicilian orange cake recipe, this cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. Storage: Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
3. Freezing: Slice the cake and freeze individual portions for a quick treat.

FAQ’s

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, replace semolina with fine cornmeal or a gluten-free semolina recipe substitute.

Q: What’s the difference between almond meal and almond flour?
A: Almond meal is coarser and may contain almond skins, while almond flour is finer and skin-free. Either works for this cake.

Q: Can I use whole oranges in this recipe?
A: Yes! Blend an entire orange (skin and all) to make a whole orange cake similar to a Sicilian orange cake.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Almond Semolina Cake combines the best of Mediterranean flavors into one easy-to-make dessert. With its vibrant citrus notes, nutty undertones, and moist, syrup-soaked crumb, it’s a recipe that everyone will love.

Whether you’re recreating the charm of a Sicilian whole orange cake or seeking inspiration from a Moroccan semolina cake, this treat is perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients and start baking—it’s time to create something unforgettable!