How to Make Vasilopita: The Delicious Greek New Year’s Cake

Vasilopita, the traditional Greek New Year’s cake, is a delightful treat that’s as rich in history and symbolism as it is in flavor. This fragrant, subtly sweet bread, often flavored with orange and brandy, takes center stage at every New Year’s celebration in Greece. What makes it truly special is the hidden coin baked inside, believed to bring good luck to the lucky recipient who finds it in their slice.

Whether you’re connected to Greek heritage or simply looking for a unique and delicious way to ring in the new year, baking Vasilopita is a fun and rewarding experience. This post will guide you through each step, ensuring your Vasilopita turns out perfect and ready to impress. Let’s bake!

Ingredients for a Lucky Vasilopita

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Greek New Year’s cake:

• 6 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm milk (around 100-110°F)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mahleb (optional, but adds a distinctive flavor)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash
• Sliced almonds for decoration
• A clean, wrapped coin

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment (or a sturdy wooden spoon)
• Plastic wrap
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Pastry brush

Ingredients for Vasilopita

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and stir gently. Let it stand for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and the remaining sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Incorporate the wet ingredients: Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and brandy (if using) to the butter mixture.
5. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and mahleb (if using).
6. Knead the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until everything is combined. Once the dough starts to come together, switch to the dough hook attachment and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If you don’t have a stand mixer, knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes.
7. First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
8. Shape the cake: Punch down the dough gently to release the air. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
9. Insert the coin: Make a small indentation in the center of the dough and insert the wrapped coin. Gently press the dough around the coin to seal it in.
10. Second rise: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the dough rise again for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until almost doubled in size.
11. Preheat and prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the risen dough with the egg wash and decorate with sliced almonds.
12. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Vasilopita

• Yeast quality: The freshness of your yeast is crucial for a well-risen Vasilopita. Make sure your yeast is not expired.
• Milk temperature: The milk should be lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Kneading is key: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, resulting in a soft and airy texture.
• Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry cake. Start checking for doneness at the 35-minute mark.
• Cool completely: Allow the Vasilopita to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Serving and Enjoying Your Vasilopita

Vasilopita is traditionally served on New Year’s Day. The head of the household cuts the cake into slices, with the first piece dedicated to St. Basil, the second to the house, and the remaining slices distributed among family members and guests. The person who finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the coming year!

Vasilopita Baking

FAQs About Making Vasilopita

Can I use a bread machine to make Vasilopita?

Absolutely! You can use the dough cycle of your bread machine to knead the dough. Once the cycle is complete, proceed with the shaping, rising, and baking instructions.

What kind of coin is traditionally used?

A silver or gold coin is traditionally used. However, any clean coin that’s wrapped well will do.

Can I freeze leftover Vasilopita?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Vasilopita. Slice the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Making your own Vasilopita is a wonderful way to welcome the new year. This recipe provides a delicious and authentic taste of Greek tradition. Share this special treat with your loved ones and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your celebration.

Serving Vasilopita

Let us know in the comments below if you try this recipe, and be sure to share pictures of your beautiful Vasilopita creations! Happy baking and Kali Chronia!