Greek Samali Syrup Cake with Mastiha – Traditional Semolina Dessert Recipe

Samali (σάμαλι) is a classic Greek syrup cake made with coarse semolina, yogurt, and flavored with mastiha (mastic resin) — a rare spice from the island of Chios. Soft, aromatic, and soaked in cinnamon-scented syrup, this traditional dessert is often found in pastry shops across Greece.

With its golden color, chewy texture, and unique aroma, Samali is a must-try sweet for anyone who loves authentic Mediterranean flavors.

Greek Samali Syrup Cake with Mastiha – Traditional Semolina Dessert Recipe

Recipe by George Zolis

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: DessertCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy

Servings

16

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

310

kcal

Resting Time

2

hours 

Total time

2

hours 

55

minutes

Traditional Greek Samali cake with semolina, yogurt, and mastiha, soaked in syrup. Authentic pastry-shop style recipe.

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Ingredients

Metric US

• For the Syrup

• 1200 g 6 cup Sugar

• 1 kg 4 cup Water

• Juice of 1/2 Lemon

• 1 1 Cinnamon stick

• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp Glucose Syrup (optional)

• For the Cake

• 500 g 3 cup Coarse Semolina

• 600 g 2 1/2 cup Full-fat Yogurt

• 250 g 1 cup Whole Milk

• 200 g 1 cup Sugar

• 6 g 1 1/2 tsp Ground Mastiha

• 15 g 1 tbsp Baking Soda

• 1 tsp 1 tsp Baking Powder

• Few drops Lemon Juice

How to make Greek Samali

• Make the Cake
• In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, milk, sugar, baking powder, and mastiha.
• Add semolina. In the center, add baking soda mixed with a few drops of lemon juice. Stir until combined.
• Cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 1.5 hours (ideally 3–4 hours).
• Transfer mixture to a greased 25×35 cm (10×14 inch) baking pan. Spread evenly.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F), bottom heat, for 35 minutes.
• Remove from oven, cut into squares or diamonds, then bake for another 10 minutes.
• Make the Syrup
• In a saucepan, add sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and glucose. Bring to a boil and simmer for 6 minutes.
• Combine
• Pour hot syrup over the hot cake.
• Allow to fully absorb the syrup and cool before serving.

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🍰 What is Greek Samali?

Samali is one of Greece’s most traditional syrup desserts, often served in pastry shops (zacharoplasteio) and at family gatherings. Its base is coarse semolina and yogurt, making it different from sponge cakes. The addition of mastiha resin gives it a unique, refreshing aroma that’s unlike any other dessert.

🌿 The Role of Mastiha

Mastiha is a resin from the mastic trees of Chios island, known for its herbal, pine-like flavor. It’s considered a rare spice, and just a small amount transforms the taste of the dessert.

🌟 Tips for Perfect Samali

• Let the mixture rest in the fridge to help the semolina hydrate.
• Always pour hot syrup over hot cake for the best absorption.
• Use coarse semolina (not fine), as it gives the cake its authentic texture.
• Add glucose syrup to the syrup if you want a glossy finish, just like in pastry shops.

🍽️ How to Serve Samali

Samali is best served cold, after the syrup has fully soaked in. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it with Greek coffee for a true Mediterranean experience.

More Greek Syrup Desserts to Try

• Fluffy Coconut Ravani
• Vegan Oil-Free Samali
• Greek Halva Jelly