Basbousa

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in rose water if using. Set aside to cool.

Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine semolina, granulated sugar, yogurt, melted butter, desiccated coconut (if using), baking powder, and vanilla extract.

Mix until well combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish or similar size.

Smooth the top with a spatula.

If desired, press almonds into the surface of the batter.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Add Syrup

Remove the basbousa from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot cake.

Allow the cake to absorb the syrup and cool completely before cutting into squares.