Start the new year off right with a delicious, traditional Greek cake! This cake is light, moist, and packed with delightful flavors. The blend of orange juice and anise extract gives it a unique, aromatic taste that pairs wonderfully with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re celebrating with family or friends, this cake will make a memorable treat for the occasion.
Ingredients for Greek New Year’s Cake
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1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened (226 g)
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1 1/2 cups sugar (300 g)
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4 eggs, separated
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3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g)
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2 tsp baking powder (8 g)
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1/4 tsp baking soda (1 g)
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2/3 cup orange juice (160 ml)
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1/2 tsp anise extract (2.5 ml)
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Sesame seeds (for sprinkling on top, to taste)
How to Make Greek New Year’s Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and egg yolks until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add half of the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing well. Then, add 1/3 cup of orange juice (80 ml) and mix again. Repeat with the remaining flour mixture and orange juice.
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In a small bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate them.
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Transfer the batter into a greased cake pan (a 10-inch (25 cm) springform pan works well). Before placing the pan in the oven, wrap a coin (such as a dime) in aluminum foil and place it inside the batter for a fun New Year’s tradition.
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Bake the cake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cake has risen and set. About halfway through baking, brush the top of the cake with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water) and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top. Continue baking until golden brown.
This Greek New Year’s cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a delicious way to celebrate tradition while starting a fresh new year. With its subtle orange and anise flavors and light texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with your favorite hot beverage, and enjoy a sweet moment of reflection on the year to come.
The best part? The hidden coin inside the cake brings extra fun and good luck for the person who finds it! Celebrate the start of the year with this wonderful, festive treat.
