Lebanese Sweet Almond Cake (صفوف )

I made this for the first time for an iftar (break of the fast during Ramadan). Its a wonderful dessert for those who love their tea super sweet because there's not too much sugar in the cake. This also tastes wonderful with coffee in the mornings.

 

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups semolina flour
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tbsp ground turmeric
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup white sugar, plus 3 tbsp
1 cups milk
1 tsp almond extract (optional)
1/2 cup slivered almonds

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine semolina flour, all-purpose flour, turmeric and baking powder.
   
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar and milk (and almond extract if you like). Stir until sugar is melted.
   
4. Add to dry ingredients  and add the vegetable oil and stir to make a paste. Use a handmixer to mix thoroughly.
5. Pour batter into greased 9x13 baking dish.
6. Sprinkle with almonds (I like to make designs)
   
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool for about 30 minutes before serving.

(You can make this a day before, just be sure to cover tightly to preserve moisture - don't want it tasting stale!)