Vasilopita Recipe

Baking this orange zest cake with a hint of almond and creamy Greek yogurt feels like treating myself to a sunlit afternoon, all while indulging in a tradition that carries a touch of luck. As I dust the top with powdered sugar, I can’t help but look forward to the joy of sharing this golden treat and the anticipation of who will find the hidden coin.

Vasilopita, a traditional Greek New Year’s cake, brings together the zestiness of orange and the subtle aromas of vanilla and almond. The softened butter and Greek yogurt create a tender crumb in this cake, while the wrapped coin imparts a fun, symbolic twist.

This cake is a flavor powerhouse, and it’s perfect for merry-making.

Vasilopita Recipe Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure; source of carbohydrates.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake; essential for browning.
• Eggs: Adds moisture, structure; source of protein.
• Orange juice: Adds acidity and flavor; contains Vitamin C.
• Orange zest: Enhances fragrance; adds citrusy aroma.
• Greek yogurt: Adds moisture; source of protein.
• Butter: Provides richness; adds flavor and tenderness.

Vasilopita Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• One clean coin, wrapped in foil (optional, for tradition)

How to Make this Vasilopita Recipe

1. Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and prepare a 10-inch round cake pan so that the cake does not stick to it. If you are using a coin, be sure to wrap it in foil first.

2. In a bowl of medium size, combine together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt by whisking them. Then put them aside.

3. In a big mixing bowl, beat together the butter that has been softened and the sugar until they are light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition.

5. Blend the orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) into the mixture.

6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in a slow and steady manner, while making sure to mix thoroughly between each addition. When you have added the last of the dry mixture, you should mix just long enough for everything to come together and not a second longer.

7. Place the batter in the prepped cake pan. If the batter is too thick for pouring, smooth it to the edges with a spatula. Use the spatula to spread the batter into the pan’s corners.

8. Heat the oven and bake for the same amount of time at the same temperature. Result: Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Take the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, move the cake to a wire rack to let it cool completely.

10. When the cake has cooled, sprinkle the top with powdered sugar just before serving. If using the coin, slice the cake to reveal who will get lucky in the coming year! Enjoy!

Vasilopita Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. 10-inch round cake pan
3. Aluminum foil (if using a coin)
4. Medium mixing bowl
5. Large mixing bowl
6. Whisk
7. Hand mixer or stand mixer
8. Spatula
9. Wire rack
10. Measuring cups
11. Measuring spoons
12. Toothpick (for testing doneness)

FAQ

• What is Vasilopita?Vasilopita is a customary Greek cake made for the New Year. A coin is tucked inside the cake, and the cake is shared with family and friends as part of the New Year celebration. At the table, the head of the household takes the first piece, which is intended for Christ, since He is the one who grants blessings.
• Can I omit the almond extract?Certainly! The almond extract is not a necessary ingredient, and the cake will still be wonderful without it. It contributes a nice, barely-there flavor, but if you do not care for almond flavoring, feel free to leave it out.
• How do I prepare the coin for the cake?Wash the coin well and cover it with aluminum foil before mixing it into the cake batter. It makes for a safe and old-timey way to do your Vasilopita.
• What is the purpose of the Greek yogurt in the recipe?Moist and slightly tangy, Greek yogurt makes for a tender cake that is perfectly balanced in flavor. Indeed, its balance of sweetness is still present, but that same sweetness is perfectly complemented by the tanginess of the yogurt. This is a cake, and it is still a slightly beautiful mess (perfect for a beginner baker).
• Can I use a different type of flour?For the best texture, it is recommended to use all-purpose flour, but cake flour can be used for a lighter texture. Make sure to adjust your measurements if you are using other flours.
• How should I store Vasilopita?Store an airtight container at the room temperature of a few days in it, or wrap it and refrigerate to preserve freshness for a longer duration.
• Is the coin necessary?No, the coin is a traditional aspect of the cake and symbolizes good luck. You can omit it with no effect on the flavor or texture of the cake.

Vasilopita Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can use a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio for all-purpose flour.
If you have unsalted butter on hand, you can use it instead of these healthful alternatives. But remember, you need the same amount in a 1-to-1 ratio.
If you lack granulated sugar, you can use an equal amount of caster sugar.
Lemon juice can be used instead of orange juice for a different citrus taste.
Sour cream can be substituted in the same measure for Greek yogurt.

Pro Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and Greek yogurt are at room temperature before you start. This will help them mix more easily with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter and a more evenly textured cake.