Sfouf Bil Dibbis (Carob Molasses Cake)

Preparation Time: 15 Minutes

Baking Time: 18 Minutes

Servings: 20 squares

Oven Temperature: 350^O F

Ingredients:

·         2 cups fine semolina flour

·         1 cup flour

·         1 Tbsp. Anise seed (ground)

·         2 tsp. Baking Powder

·         ½ tsp. Baking Soda

·         ¼ tsp. Vanilla

·         ¾ cup oil (sunflower, corn, or canola)

·         1 cup carob molasses

·         2 Tbsp. Tahini ground sesame paste (to brush the bottom of the pan)

·         3 Tbsp. white sesame seeds (to decorate the top)

Preparation:

·         Preheat oven to 350^O F

·         Brush the baking pan (25 x 33 cm) with Tahini and set aside

Procedure:

1.      In a large bowl, combine semolina, flour, anise, baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla

2.      Add the oil and molasses and mix well with a metal spoon

3.      Knead the mixture by hand until all the liquid Is absorbed by the dry ingredients (it will be sticky)

4.      Press the mixture in the pan, flattening it with your hand to make sure that it is evenly spread

5.      Sprinkle with sesame seeds to cover the entire top

6.      Bake on the middle rack of your oven for 15 minutes

7.      After 15 minutes, place the pan on the highest rack and broil for 2-3 minutes as the sesame seeds burn fast.

8.      Remove from oven and allow to cool

9.      Cut into squares

10.  Serve at room temperature with coffee or tea

This Carob Molasses Cake stays fresh for 10 days if kept in an air-tight container at room temperature.