If you’re hunting for a showstopping dessert that’s effortlessly elegant yet brimming with heritage, this Revani Syrup Cake Recipe will win your heart. Picture an ultra-moist Greek semolina and yogurt cake, golden and fragrant, each piece lovingly steeped in tangy lemon syrup. With its tender crumb, jewel-like pistachio topping, and irresistible citrusy aroma, this cake transforms any gathering into a sun-drenched celebration. The best part? It’s make-ahead friendly and feeds a crowd, making it your secret weapon for stress-free entertaining. Once you taste it, the Revani Syrup Cake Recipe will become your go-to for both weeknights and special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This cake is proof that simple, honest ingredients can create magic. Every component in the Revani Syrup Cake Recipe plays a meaningful role, from the wholesome semolina to the bright burst of lemon zest. Here’s what you’ll need—and why each one matters.
- Fine Semolina: Gives the cake its signature tender crumb and delicate texture that sets it apart from other sponge cakes.
- All-purpose Flour: Works with semolina to provide structure, keeping the cake light rather than dense.
- Baking Powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
- Large Eggs: Provide richness and help the batter achieve that delightful, slightly springy bite.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and perfect tenderness in both the cake and syrup—it’s more than just flavor; it’s about moisture, too!
- Greek Yogurt (Full-fat Preferred): Brings a creamy tang and keeps the crumb luxuriously moist.
- Unsalted Butter (or Light Olive Oil): Butter gives incomparable depth, but light olive oil is a lovely, heart-healthy substitute.
- Zest of 1 Lemon: Brightens everything up, infusing each bite with Mediterranean sunshine.
- For the Syrup: 2 cups sugar, 1 1/2 cups water, juice of 1/2 lemon, 1 cinnamon stick (optional) – the magical soaking mixture that defines the Revani Syrup Cake Recipe.
- Optional Toppings: 1/2 cup shredded coconut or 1/2 cup chopped pistachios (for a little color, crunch, and visual flair!)
How to Make Revani Syrup Cake Recipe
Step 1: Make the Syrup
Start with the syrup, as it needs time to cool completely for best results. Combine sugar, water, fresh lemon juice, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes until slightly thickened and aromatic. Let the syrup cool—this ensures that when you pour it over the baked cake, every crumb soaks up the sweet-citrus flavor without turning soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
Next comes the batter. Beat the eggs and sugar together until they’re pale and thick—this step incorporates air, making the cake delightfully light. Stir in the Greek yogurt, melted butter, and lemon zest, mixing just until everything is combined for a creamy, sunshine-yellow base.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the fine semolina, flour, and baking powder. Fold these dry ingredients gently into your wet mixture; this ensures the famous texture of Revani without overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a generously greased 9×13-inch baking pan, smoothing it out for an even layer. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the cake is golden on top and a toothpick comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell incredible—the moment you see that golden crust, you’ll understand why Revani Syrup Cake Recipe is such a classic.
Step 5: Soak and Rest
Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for about 15 minutes. Score it gently into squares or diamonds. Slowly pour the cooled syrup over the warm cake, letting it drink in the sweet, citrusy flavor. Rest for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. This patience pays off with a cake that’s moist to the core and beautifully balanced.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Before serving, shower the top with chopped pistachios or shredded coconut for extra color, crunch, and festive charm. Slice into the scored portions and enjoy every sticky-sweet bite.
How to Serve Revani Syrup Cake Recipe

Garnishes
The most beloved way to serve the Revani Syrup Cake Recipe is with a flourish of toppings. A generous sprinkle of vibrant green pistachios or snowy coconut gives both crunch and irresistible curb appeal. You can even add a dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra lemon zest curls for a final burst of color and fragrance.
Side Dishes
Revani practically begs for simple accompaniments. A dollop of thick, creamy Greek yogurt balances the syrup’s sweetness, while a handful of fresh berries or citrus segments brings brightness. Some folks love to pair it with strong Greek coffee or a bracing cup of black tea, which offsets the cake’s richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Take a cue from Greek patisseries and cut your cake into diamond shapes for a traditional look, or try mini squares for bite-sized treats at parties. You can stack slices on a platter with fresh mint leaves between each one, or serve individually in small dessert cups with an extra drizzle of syrup for extra flair. However you share it, Revani Syrup Cake Recipe always feels festive and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Revani Syrup Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The syrup continues to infuse the cake, so the flavor gets better with each passing hour. Be sure to keep it covered so it stays moist and fresh.
Freezing
This cake freezes surprisingly well. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then tuck them in a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving—the texture and flavor hold up beautifully, making it ideal for planning ahead.
Reheating
If you prefer your Revani Syrup Cake Recipe just slightly warm, place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15 seconds. Avoid reheating too long, as the cake can dry out. For elegant occasions, serve at room temperature to let the syrup’s flavors shine brightest.
FAQs
What makes the Revani Syrup Cake Recipe different from other syrup cakes?
It’s all about the semolina and yogurt—they create a uniquely grainy yet tender crumb that soaks up the lemony syrup, setting Revani apart from typical sponge or sheet cakes. The result is a refreshing, light-yet-moist dessert that never feels heavy.
Can I use coarse semolina instead of fine?
For a traditional texture, fine semolina is best, as it yields the classic, even crumb. If you only have coarse semolina, the cake will be a bit denser and grainier, but still delicious—just let it rest with the syrup a bit longer to soften fully.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?
Full-fat Greek yogurt is ideal for richness and tang, but you can use regular plain yogurt in a pinch. If you need a dairy-free option, a thick coconut yogurt works well (and adds a subtle coconut note), though the flavor and texture will change slightly.
Can I make the Revani Syrup Cake Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures 1:1. Double-check your semolina, as some brands process it with wheat, but gluten-free semolina alternatives are available.
Why does the cake need to rest so long with the syrup?
The syrup needs several hours (ideally overnight) to fully penetrate the cake, turning it moist all the way through rather than just on the surface. This slow soaking transforms the crumb and deepens the lemony, spiced aroma—patience truly pays off!
Final Thoughts
Few desserts deliver the same joy, ease, and wow-factor as the Revani Syrup Cake Recipe. Whether you’re carrying on a family tradition or just looking for a new favorite, this cake is guaranteed to charm. Gather your ingredients, invite a few friends, and share a slice of pure Mediterranean sunshine. You’ll want to bake it again and again!
PrintRevani Syrup Cake Recipe
Revani Syrup Cake is a traditional Greek semolina and yogurt cake soaked in lemon syrup, inspired by the classic revani from Veria. Moist, tender, and perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours minimum
- Yield: 12–15 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup fine semolina
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or light olive oil)
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Syrup:
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Make Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Simmer 8–10 minutes. Cool completely.
- Prepare Batter: Beat eggs and sugar until pale. Add yogurt, melted butter, and lemon zest. Mix gently.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk semolina, flour, and baking powder. Fold into wet mixture.
- Bake Cake: Pour batter into greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, until golden.
- Soak & Rest: Cool cake 15 minutes, score into squares, then slowly pour cooled syrup over. Let rest 4+ hours or overnight.
- Serve: Garnish with pistachios or coconut and cut into diamonds or squares.
Nutrition
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 27g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g