How to Make Fanouropita: A Delicious Greek Tradition

Fanouropita, also known as “St. Fanourios Bread,” is a traditional Greek cake made to honor St. Fanourios, the patron saint of lost items and second chances. This fragrant and flavorful cake is often prepared with olive oil, orange juice, and spices, resulting in a moist and delicious treat. Today, we’ll explore How To Make Fanouropita, sharing a recipe that’s easy to follow and sure to fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas.

A Bite of History and a Dash of Flavor

Fanouropita is more than just a cake; it’s a symbol of faith, hope, and tradition in Greek culture. Families often bake this cake on August 27th, St. Fanourios’ feast day, to seek his blessings and guidance. The cake’s delicious flavor is a testament to the ingenuity of Greek cuisine, using simple ingredients to create a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and celebratory.

Let’s Gather Our Ingredients

Before we embark on our baking journey, let’s gather everything we need:

• 1 cup (240 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (150 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (150 grams) whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) chopped walnuts (optional)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Tools of the Trade

Having the right tools can make our baking experience even more enjoyable:

• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 whisk
• 1 rubber spatula
• 1 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper

The Art of Making Fanouropita

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this delightful cake:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.

2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sugar, and eggs until well combined.

3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

4. Add Flavorful Touches: Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and chopped walnuts (if using).

5. Pour, Bake, and Cool: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Tips for a Divine Fanouropita

Here are some tips to make your Fanouropita truly exceptional:

• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the olive oil and orange juice, as they significantly impact the cake’s flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense and tough cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Toothpick Test: To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
• Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This prevents it from crumbling and helps the flavors meld together.

Fanouropita Ingredients

FAQs about Fanouropita

Q: Can I substitute the olive oil with another oil?

A: While olive oil is traditional and adds a distinct flavor to Fanouropita, you can substitute it with another neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Q: Can I add other mix-ins to the cake?

A: Absolutely! Raisins, dried cranberries, and chopped dates are all delicious additions to Fanouropita.

Q: How should I store Fanouropita?

A: Store Fanouropita in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

A Sweet Ending to Your Baking Journey

Baking Fanouropita is a delightful way to connect with Greek tradition and enjoy a delicious treat. Whether you’re seeking St. Fanourios’ blessings or simply craving a flavorful cake, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and bake a batch of this comforting and aromatic Greek classic.

Baking Fanouropita

Don’t forget to share your baking experience with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your Fanouropita journey. And for more delicious recipes and baking inspiration, explore our website and discover a world of culinary delights.