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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, vegetable oil (or melted butter), sugar, eggs, and orange zest until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Add the baking powder and fresh orange juice to the mixture, stirring to combine.
- Tear the phyllo dough into small pieces and add them to the bowl, mixing gently to ensure the phyllo is evenly coated in the batter. The dough should soften and absorb the wet ingredients, creating a chunky yet moist mixture.
- Pour the cake mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup.
Step 3: Prepare the Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, orange juice, and honey (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat and let the syrup simmer for 10-12 minutes until it slightly thickens and becomes syrupy.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Pour the Syrup
- Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- While the cake is still warm, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the cake. The cake will absorb the syrup, making it moist and flavorful.
- Allow the cake to soak for at least 30 minutes before serving. The syrup will continue to infuse the cake with its orange flavor, making it even more delicious.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the cake into squares or wedges and serve at room temperature or chilled. Garnish with extra orange zest or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a decorative touch, if desired.
Why You’ll Love Greek Orange Cake
- Citrus Delight: The vibrant, fresh orange flavor shines through in every bite, making this cake a perfect treat for citrus lovers.
- Unique Texture: The use of phyllo dough gives the cake a slightly crunchy texture on top while staying soft and syrup-soaked inside. It’s a perfect balance of crispy and tender.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this cake is a no-fuss dessert that doesn’t require any fancy equipment.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, Greek Orange Cake is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Make-Ahead: The cake improves in flavor as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for parties or gatherings.
Customizations and Variations
- Add Almonds or Walnuts: For extra texture, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, on top of the cake before baking.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt, and use a plant-based oil instead of butter. You can also replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Flavored Syrup: Add a dash of cinnamon or a few sprigs of rosemary to the syrup for a unique flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Greek Coffee: To enhance the Greek experience, serve slices of Portokalopita alongside a cup of strong Greek coffee or espresso.
- Perfect for a Dessert Spread: This cake works wonderfully as part of a dessert spread alongside other Greek treats like Baklava or Loukoumades (Greek honey donuts).
- Great for Picnics: It’s an ideal dessert for picnics, as it holds up well and is just as delicious served chilled.
Conclusion
Greek Orange Cake (Portokalopita) is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor in every bite. Its simple ingredients and refreshing taste make it an ideal treat for almost any occasion. The syrup-soaked phyllo dough creates a unique texture that’s both light and satisfying, while the fresh orange flavor ties everything together beautifully. Try this recipe, and you’ll soon be transported to the sunny Mediterranean with each bite—sweet, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying!
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