Traditional Greek New Year's Cake Recipe: Vasilopita

Greek Vasilopita is a traditional cake baked and served on New Year's Day in Greece. It is made with a rich buttery dough infused with orange zest and a hint of whiskey, then topped with a golden crust and a hidden coin for good luck. The cake is typically enjoyed with loved ones as a festive treat to ring in the New Year.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons whiskey
• 1 coin wrapped in aluminum foil
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the flour, baking powder, orange zest, and whiskey until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and press the coin into the batter.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool before dusting with powdered sugar and serving.

Interesting Facts