Fried Semolina Spice Cakes with Orange Blossom Water

1. Sift Dry Ingredients

Sift together the dry ingredients: semolina, all-purpose flour, bread flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves into a medium bowl.

2. Beat Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the melted butter and sugar together with an electric mixer for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Gradually add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then add the yogurt and orange zest and beat for an additional 30 seconds.

3. Rest the Batter

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter sit for 3 hours to thicken and allow the flavors to meld.

4. Fry the Cakes

Heat the lard or vegetable oil in a large saucepan to 325°F and fry teaspoons of the dough for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Transfer the cakes to paper towel-lined plates to drain.

5. Drizzle and Sprinkle

Drizzle the fried cakes with orange blossom water and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar before serving.