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Sfouf (Lebanese Turmeric Cake)

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Sfouf is a traditional Lebanese turmeric cake with a lightly sweet flavor and tender crumb, topped with pine nuts for a delicate crunch.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup fine semolina flour (durum wheat semolina)
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups warm milk (whole milk)
  • 1 tbsp. turmeric powder
  • 1½ tbsp. baking powder
  • 1 tbsp. ground aniseed powder (yensoon)
  • 1 cup extra light tasting olive oil
  • ¼ cup raw pine nuts (for topping)
  • 2 tbsps. tahini paste (for greasing the tray)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 15 x 10 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper using tahini paste.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together semolina, flour, turmeric, anise powder, baking powder, and sugar.
  4. Add the oil and mix well, then pour in the warm milk and stir until fully combined, about 1 minute.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the surface, and tap to release air bubbles. Sprinkle pine nuts evenly on top.
  6. Bake for about 30 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. If needed, broil briefly for 1 minute to deepen color.
  7. Allow the cake to cool before slicing into 20 square portions and serving.

Notes

  • Reduce sugar to 1.5 cups for a less sweet version.
  • Olive oil can be substituted with avocado or vegetable oil.
  • Sesame seeds can be used instead of pine nuts for topping.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Nutrition