Bake Egg-Free Semolina Cake For Every Sweet Tooth

Aren't cakes the ultimate mood-lifter? Be it some celebration, family gathering, or that cozy evening with chai, a slice of cake can add a little joy to your day. What if eggs are not part of your pantry or your diet? No worries, as egg-free baking is here to save the day!

Something as versatile as suji, or semolina, is handy in every Indian kitchen, associated typically with savory recipes like upma or rava dosa. Do you know it makes a great base for cakes? Yes, it can be light, fluffy, and packed full of flavor even without eggs.

This is a simple recipe for semolina cake, perfect for a beginner and great for anyone who likes baking without hassle. It's also customizable with a myriad of toppings, minimal effort required, and preparation can be done with just a few equipment. Let's dive into this easy-bake treat and bring some baking joy to your kitchen!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup semolina (fine rava)
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup plain yoghurt (curd)
• ¼ cup milk
• ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp vanilla essence
• A pinch of salt

Method:

Mix the Batter: Add semolina, sugar, yogurt, milk, and oil in a bowl. Mix it well until smooth. Let it rest for 10 minutes for the liquid to get absorbed in semolina.

Prepare the Cake Pan: Grease and line a round or square cake pan. Prep your oven to 180°C.

Add Rising Agents: Stir in baking powder, baking soda, vanilla essence and salt. Mix it delicately but thoroughly.

Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan, smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve: Cool completely before slicing. This can be enjoyed plain or with your favorite toppings!

Variations of Toppings to Try

Classic Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a couple of teaspoons of milk to make a simple glaze. Pour it over the cooled cake for that nice and sweet finish.

Fruit Burst: You can just use fresh fruits like strawberries, mangoes, or blueberries and layer them, or you can add whipped cream on top for more indulgence.

Nuts and Honey: Nice crunchy natural sweetness of toasted almonds, pistachios, or cashews with a little honey.

Chocolate Ganache: For the ultimate chocolate topping melt dark or milk chocolate with cream, spread it over the cake, then let it set for a fudgy treat.

Tropical Delight: Sprinkle desiccated coconut over the cake or mix it with condensed milk for a tropical twist.

Which Type of Semolina to Use

Fine Semolina: Use fine rava for a smooth grind rather than gritty. Coarse semolina will not absorb liquids evenly.

Fresh Semolina: Always use fresh, unspoiled semolina. Rancid and aged semolina can change the flavor of your cake.

Whole Wheat Semolina: Try using whole wheat semolina for a healthier option. It tastes a bit nutty, but fluffiness is maintained.

How to Get A Perfect Cake

Let it Rest: Letting the batter rest for 10-15 minutes allows the semolina to soften and absorb moisture, which helps in a tender crumb.

Avoid Overmixing: After adding the baking powder and soda, mix just enough with a gentle hand. Overmixing will deflate the batter.

Grease Adequately: Let your pan be properly greased and lined so that it doesn't stick; a non-stick pan works fabulous.

Keep a Check: Because every oven is different, track at 25 minutes. Don't open the oven door too many times.

Check Before Cooling: Insert a toothpick in the center. It is done if the toothpick comes out clean. If not, let it bake for the next 3-5 minutes.

Storage

Room Temperature: Place the cake in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to two days.

Refrigeration: If you want it to last long, then refrigerate it. Cover the cake using cling film or aluminum foil for moistness.

Freezing: Cut the cake into portions then coat each portion with cling film. Place it in a zip-lock bag or an airtight container for up to a month. Serve after thawing it at room temperature or warming it inside the microwave.

Baking an egg-free semolina cake is a fun and rewarding experience. With easy steps, versatile toppings, and practical storage tips, you’re all set to create a treat everyone will love. So, grab your semolina, get your mixing bowl ready, and let the baking begin in your kitchen!