Şambali Dessert (Turkish Semolina Syrup Cake)

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Add the water and sugar to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Add a few drops of lemon juice, simmer briefly, then remove from the heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
2. Add the yogurt, vegetable oil, sugar, vanilla, and baking powder to a large bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
3. Add the semolina and flour to the yogurt mixture and fold everything together until you have a thick, smooth batter with no dry pockets remaining.
4. Transfer the thick semolina mixture to a greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top into an even layer.
5. Shape and Add the Almonds
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for about 30–35 minutes, or until the surface is evenly golden and the center is set.
7. Remove the hot dessert from the oven and carefully pour the completely cooled syrup over the surface, distributing it evenly so every section can absorb the liquid.
8. Let the dessert rest until the syrup is fully absorbed and the texture has set. Cut along the scored lines and serve as is or finish with ground pistachios if desired.