A classic Goan-style coconut and semolina cake that’s rich, fragrant, and even better after it rests.
Prep time
20 minutes (plus 12 hours resting)
Cook time
About 45–60 minutes (depends on tray size)
Rest time
12 hours (recommended)
Serves
10–12 slices
Ingredients
For the base mixture
- 250 g freshly grated coconut
- 250 g sugar
- 6 whole eggs
Add after blending
- 250 g semolina
- 250 g melted salted butter
- 1/2 tbsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp rose water
For folding in (later)
- 3 egg whites (beaten to soft peaks)
Step by step method
1) Blend the base
Add the grated coconut, sugar, and 6 whole eggs to a blender or mixer.
Blend until you get a smooth, thick mixture.
2) Add the rest of the ingredients
Pour the blended mixture into a mixing bowl.
Add the semolina, melted butter, cardamom powder, and rose water.
Mix well until everything is fully combined.
3) Rest the batter (important)
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 12 hours.
This resting time lets the semolina soak up the mixture properly and gives you a better texture.
4) Bring to room temperature
Remove the batter from the fridge and let it sit until it reaches room temperature.
5) Prep your baking tray
Grease your baking tray and line the bottom (and sides if you like) with parchment paper.
6) Beat the egg whites
Beat 3 egg whites until soft peaks form.
Gently fold the egg whites into the rested batter, do not overmix, you want to keep the air in.
7) Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared tray.
Bake at 170°C until set and golden on top.
Start checking at around 45 minutes.
It’s done when a toothpick comes out clean and the top has a nice golden crust.
8) Cool and slice
Let it cool in the tray for 15–20 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool fully.
Slice and serve.
Diago’s Pro Tips
- Resting the batter for 12 hours isn’t optional if you want that proper Baath texture. I can make my peace with 8 hours if you’re in a rush, but nothing less than that.
- Fold the egg whites gently, this is what helps the cake feel lighter.
- Baking time varies by tray depth, a deeper tray takes longer.
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