Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sfouf (Turmeric Cake)

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 squares
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Lebanese
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Sfouf is a traditional Lebanese turmeric cake made with semolina, flour, turmeric, and anise, offering a warm, earthy flavor and golden color. Naturally egg-free and dairy-free, it’s a simple, wholesome cake perfect for pairing with tea or coffee.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups semolina
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon anise seeds or 1/2 teaspoon anise extract (optional)
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 cups plant-based or regular milk
  • Tahini, for greasing the pan
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts or sesame seeds, for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with tahini.
  3. In a large bowl, combine semolina, flour, sugar, baking powder, turmeric, and anise if using.
  4. Add vegetable oil and milk to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  6. Sprinkle pine nuts or sesame seeds on top.
  7. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool completely before slicing into squares or diamonds. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use sesame seeds instead of pine nuts for a nut-free version.Add orange zest or blossom water for a citrusy twist.For a richer taste, substitute part of the oil with melted coconut oil or butter.Sfouf freezes well—wrap slices individually for easy storage.Serve with tea or coffee for a traditional Lebanese treat.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg