Greek New Year’s Orange and Brandy Cake (Vassilopita)

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 3
Greek New Year's Orange and Brandy Cake (Vassilopita) recipe
in Dessert

Prep

20 min

Cook

60 min

Ready In

80 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

4 large eggs , separated
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter , melted
1 1/4 cups orange juice , freshly squeezed
1/2 cup brandy
4 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 orange , zest of , only
1 lemon , zest of , only
1/2 cup whole blanched almond

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
12
Calories
372
Sugar
29g
Fat
14g
Greek New Year's Orange and Brandy Cake commonly known as Vassilopita is a traditional Greek cake that is often served during the New Year's Eve celebration. The ancient Greeks believed that by eating this cake on New Year's Eve, they would have good fortune throughout the coming year. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with fresh orange juice, brandy, and blanched almonds, making it a delicious treat to round off a meal. The cake usually has a coin placed inside, and the person who discovers the coin is said to be blessed with good luck in the coming year.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2.In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and 1 cup sugar until well combined.
3.Gradually add melted butter, orange juice, and brandy to the egg mixture, whisking until smooth.
4.In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
5.Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6.In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with 2 tablespoons sugar until stiff peaks form.
7.Fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter.
8.Add orange zest, lemon zest, and blanched almonds, stirring until well combined.
9.Pour the cake batter into a greased and floured 10-inch Bundt pan.
10.Bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
11.Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool further.

PROS

This cake is incredibly moist and flavorful, with a perfect balance of oranges and brandy.

It is easy to make and perfect for celebrating the New Year.

It can be stored in an airtight container for several days and still tastes great.

CONS

This cake is high in calories and might not be suitable for those watching their caloric intake.

It contains alcohol and is not suitable for children and those avoiding alcohol.

The blanched almonds in the cake might be an allergen to some people.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this cake might not be the healthiest, oranges not only add plenty of flavor to this recipe, but they’re also loaded with health benefits.
They’re packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that can benefit heart health by reducing inflammation.
While brandy is not considered healthy, it might have some health benefits when consumed in moderation, such as reducing stress and promoting better sleep.

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