Introduction

Vasilopita is a traditional Greek cake or bread served on New Year’s Day to celebrate the life of Saint Basil. The cake is typically baked with a hidden coin inside, and the person who finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the coming year. Vasilopita can be made in various styles, either as a sweet, cake-like bread flavoured with orange and vanilla or as a denser, more bread-like loaf.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan:

• • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and flour a 10-inch round cake pan or bundt pan, and line the bottom with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• • In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Batter:

• • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Mix in the orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange juice.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.

3. Insert the Coin:

• • Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.
  • Wrap the coin in a small piece of foil and place it somewhere in the batter.
  • Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading it evenly.

4. Bake the Vasilopita:

• • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the centre comes out clean.
  • If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminium foil.

5. Cool and Decorate:

• • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  • Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar. You can also arrange sliced almonds on top in a decorative pattern, if desired.

6. Serve:

• • Traditionally, the cake is cut and served on New Year’s Day. The first slice is for Saint Basil, and the rest are cut for the household members, beginning with the eldest. The person who finds the coin in their slice is considered blessed for the year.

Tips

• Flavour Variations: Some versions of Vasilopita include spices like cinnamon or mahleb for additional flavour. You can also add a splash of brandy to the batter for a richer taste.
• Freezing: Vasilopita freezes well. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminium foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Decoration: You can write the New Year’s number (e.g., “2024”) on top of the cake using icing or almond slivers before baking for an added festive touch.