Revani (Greek Semolina Cake)

🧂 Ingredients

• 200 g Fine semolina(Using fine semolina will result in a more tender cake.)
• 200 g Granulated sugar(Divided for cake and syrup.)
• 200 g Plain Greek yogurt(Full-fat yogurt is recommended for richness.)
• 3 Large eggs
• 1 medium orange Orange zest(Zest from about 1 medium orange, avoid the white pith.)
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 300 ml Water(For the syrup.)
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice(Optional, for the syrup to prevent crystallization and add brightness.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 20-23 cm (8-9 inch) square or round baking pan.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the semolina, 200g granulated sugar, Greek yogurt, eggs, orange zest, and baking powder. Mix until just combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
3. 3

   Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

   ⏱️ 35-40 minutes
4. 4

   While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine 300g granulated sugar, 300ml water, and the optional lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

   ⏱️ 10 minutes
5. 5

   Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately and slowly pour the warm (not piping hot) syrup evenly over the hot cake. You should hear a satisfying sizzle. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, absorbing all the syrup. This will take at least 1 hour.

   ⏱️ 60 minutes (minimum)
6. 6

   Cut the cooled cake into squares or diamonds. The longer it sits, the more the syrup will be absorbed.

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓Ensure the syrup is warm and the cake is hot when combining for maximum absorption. However, avoid pouring boiling syrup onto a freshly baked cake to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• ✓For best results, let the Revani soak for several hours or even overnight at room temperature before serving.
• ✓Serve chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

🔄 Variations

• Add desiccated coconut to the cake batter for a tropical twist.
• Sprinkle slivered almonds or chopped pistachios over the cake before baking or after soaking.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving