Basbousa
The golden semolina cake soaked in syrup and ghee and topped with almonds; the fine semolina with sugar syrup is digested quickly, with a high glycemic index (70) and a high carbohydrate density.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Have half a small piece as a treat after a complete lunch with salad and protein, and avoid eating it in the morning or between meals.
Best preparation methods
If you make it at home, replace half the sugar in the syrup with natural stevia and add plenty of raw almonds on top for extra fibre and healthy fats.
Important Nutritional Note
For people with diabetes or insulin resistance, it is always recommended to consider the total glycemic load (GL) of the meal rather than relying on the glycemic index alone.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (60 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 358 kcal | 214.8 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g | 3 g |
| Carbohydrate | 52 g | 31.2 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 50.2 g | 30.1 g |
| Fat | 15 g | 9 g |
| Dietary fibre | 1.8 g | 1.1 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
Among the foods in Sweets & desserts with a glycemic index (11), it ranks 10 (lowest first).
Smart alternatives from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Basbousa good for weight loss?
It can fit a balanced plan with portion control: a 60 g portion gives 215 kcal, and what matters most is your total daily intake and the rest of the meal.
How does Basbousa affect blood sugar?
Its glycemic index is 70 (High), a clinically reviewed estimate rather than a laboratory measurement. A typical 60 g portion has a glycemic load of 21.1 (High), so it is best to reduce or split the portion and combine it with protein and fibre.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Basbousa?
A typical 60 g portion of Basbousa provides about 215 kcal, 3 g protein, 31.2 g carbohydrate, 9 g fat and 1.1 g fibre.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.