This is my favourite Lebanese cake, its name, Sfouf (صفوف) coming from the Arabic word for “rows,” which is how the cake is cut after baking.
It is a semolina cake flavored with turmeric, which gives it a bright yellow colour and is topped with almond nuts.
I tried it once, as a sealed single portion from a bakery, and frankly, it was unimpressive.
So my “go to supplier” is my sister in law, who bakes the perfect Sfouf on every visit to Lebanon.
For me it’s perfect to eat as a snack, super light and moist, or as an energy boost whilst out cycling the climbs of Lebanon.
Sfouf, is a “welcome to Lebanon #2” moment; reflecting the uniqueness and pride of something positive that only happens in Lebanon”