Shendetlie: Traditional Albanian Honey Walnut Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, semolina flour, and baking powder. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, beat the 1/2 cup granulated sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the cake bakes, prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine the water, 1 cup granulated sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately pour the hot syrup evenly over the warm cake. Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature, letting it absorb all the syrup.

Cut into squares or diamond shapes and serve.