If there’s one dessert that never fails to transport me to the sunny shores of Greece, it’s a slice of moist and citrusy Greek Orange Cake. This delightful treat, known as Portokalopita in Greek, is a beloved classic in Mediterranean cuisine. Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh oranges and a hint of aromatic cinnamon, this cake is a true celebration of simplicity and taste.
The beauty of Greek Orange Cake lies in its humble ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Whether enjoyed with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, each bite is a delightful journey to the heart of Greek culinary traditions. Join me in exploring the magic of this easy-to-make yet unforgettable dessert that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
In preparing this delightful Greek Orange Cake, here are the essential ingredients divided into two parts: for the cake itself and for the syrup that enhances its flavor.
For the Cake
- 3 large oranges, washed
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup olive oil
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 strip of orange peel
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
Equipment Needed
For this Greek Orange Cake recipe, you will need the following equipment to ensure a smooth baking process and delicious outcome:
Cake Preparation:
- Mixing bowls (medium to large size)
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Zester or grater for orange zest
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Fine mesh strainer
Having these essential tools ready will make the baking process more efficient and enjoyable.
Preparation
Prepare the Phyllo Sheets
- Brush melted butter between each layer of phyllo dough to create a crispy and golden crust.
- Repeat the process to layer the phyllo sheets evenly in the cake pan, ensuring a sturdy base.
- Trim any excess phyllo hanging over the edge of the pan for a neat finish.
- Combine water, sugar, and orange juice in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Let the syrup simmer gently to infuse the flavors, then remove from heat and add a hint of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Allow the syrup to cool before drizzling it over the freshly baked cake, letting it absorb the citrusy sweetness for a moist and flavorful result.
Instructions
Mixing the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of fine semolina, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tsp of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Add 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of olive oil, 3 eggs, the zest of 2 oranges, and 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
- Mix the batter until smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool before assembling.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the citrus syrup by combining 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, the juice of 2 oranges, and the juice of 1 lemon in a saucepan.
- Bring the syrup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Using a skewer, poke holes in the top of the cake to allow the syrup to penetrate.
- Slowly pour the warm syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in and infuse the cake with citrus flavor.
- Let the cake sit for at least an hour to absorb the syrup completely before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with additional orange zest or a dusting of powdered sugar before slicing and enjoying your homemade Greek Orange Cake!
Baking
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the flour, semolina, and sugar, ensuring they are evenly mixed to create a smooth batter. The addition of yogurt adds a luscious texture while olive oil brings a subtle richness to the cake. I crack the eggs into the mixture, incorporating them thoroughly for a cohesive blend.
Next, I zest fresh oranges directly into the batter, infusing it with a vibrant citrus flavor that will shine through in every bite. A splash of vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the citrus essence beautifully.
I preheat the oven to the specified temperature and grease my baking dish, ensuring the cake won’t stick. Carefully, I pour the batter into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even finish.
The cake bakes in the preheated oven, filling the kitchen with the irresistible aroma of oranges and cinnamon. As it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, I know it’s perfectly baked and ready for the final step.
While the cake cools slightly, I prepare the citrus syrup. Boiling together water, sugar, fresh orange juice, and a hint of cinnamon creates a fragrant syrup that will soak into the cake, enhancing its moisture and flavor.
Once the cake has cooled just enough, I pierce it all over with a skewer, allowing the syrup to penetrate deep into the cake. The warm, citrusy syrup floods the tiny holes, creating a moist and delectably sweet dessert.
A final touch of grated orange zest sprinkled over the top or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a visual appeal and a burst of fresh citrus aroma. Now, the Greek Orange Cake, or Portokalopita, is ready to be sliced and served, delighting taste buds with its moist, citrus-infused goodness.
Finishing Touches
After baking to golden perfection and soaking the cake with a delectable citrus syrup, it’s time to add the final touches that will elevate the presentation and taste of your Greek Orange Cake.
Adding the Syrup
Carefully pour the aromatic citrus syrup over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into every layer, infusing each bite with a burst of sweet orange flavor. The syrup not only enhances the cake’s moistness but also adds a delightful tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the dessert.
Garnishing
To complete the aesthetic appeal of your Greek Orange Cake, sprinkle some fresh orange zest or a dusting of powdered sugar on top. The vibrant orange zest adds a pop of color and a refreshing citrus aroma, while the subtle sweetness of powdered sugar provides a delicate finish that complements the cake’s flavors perfectly. Enjoy the visual and flavorful beauty of your masterpiece before serving it to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Make Ahead Tips
When preparing Greek Orange Cake, there are convenient make-ahead tips to streamline the cooking process. Here are some time-saving steps to ensure a stress-free baking experience:
Preparing the Syrup in Advance
To save time on the day of baking, consider making the citrus-infused syrup ahead of time. After combining water, sugar, fresh orange juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan, simmer the mixture until it thickens slightly. Once done, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste of the cake.
Preparing the Batter Ahead of Time
Another make-ahead option is to prepare the cake batter in advance. After mixing the flour, semolina, sugar, yogurt, olive oil, eggs, orange zest, and vanilla extract, cover the bowl securely with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This step not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a more harmonious and delicious cake.
By following these make-ahead tips, you can efficiently prepare the components of the Greek Orange Cake in advance, making the final assembly a breeze. Enjoy the fresh and citrusy flavors of this Mediterranean delight without the last-minute rush.
Storage and Freezing
When it comes to storing Greek Orange Cake, it is essential to ensure that its moist and citrusy flavors are preserved for the best eating experience. Here are the key steps to follow for proper storage and freezing:
Storing:
- Allow the Greek Orange Cake to cool completely before storing it.
- Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Store the cake at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
- To freeze the Greek Orange Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Alternatively, slice the cake into individual portions before freezing for easier thawing and serving.
- Place the wrapped cake or slices in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Properly stored, the Greek Orange Cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.
- For an added touch, lightly dust the thawed cake with powdered sugar or top it with fresh orange zest to enhance its presentation and flavor.
By following these storage and freezing tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Greek Orange Cake even days after baking it, ensuring a delightful treat whenever you crave a taste of Mediterranean sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
After preparing and enjoying this delightful Greek Orange Cake, there are various ways to present and serve it for an exquisite dining experience.
1. Garnish with Citrus Zest:
To enhance the citrusy flavors of the cake, consider grating some fresh orange or lemon zest on top before serving. The bright colors and aromas will add a pop of freshness to each slice.
2. Serve with Greek Yogurt or Whipped Cream:
Pairing the Greek Orange Cake with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or lightly sweetened whipped cream can balance the flavors and textures. The tanginess of the yogurt complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
3. Drizzle with Honey or Citrus Syrup:
For an extra touch of sweetness and moisture, drizzle a bit of honey or leftover citrus syrup from the cake over each slice just before serving. It adds a glossy finish and an extra burst of flavor.
4. Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream:
For a decadent dessert option, serve the Greek Orange Cake with a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream. The warm cake and cold ice cream combination is a delightful contrast that will please your taste buds.
5. Pair with Tea or Coffee:
Enjoy a slice of Greek Orange Cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and satisfying treat. The cake’s citrus notes pair well with a variety of tea blends or a robust cup of coffee.
6. Create a Dessert Platter:
For a special occasion or gathering, consider serving the Greek Orange Cake alongside other Greek desserts like Baklava or Galaktoboureko. This dessert platter will offer a diverse selection of flavors and textures for your guests to enjoy.
7. Customize with Nuts or Fresh Fruits:
Feel free to customize your serving by adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds on top of the cake slices. Alternatively, serve the cake with a side of fresh berries or citrus segments for a refreshing twist.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can elevate the experience of enjoying Greek Orange Cake and delight your guests with a memorable dessert presentation.
Conclusion
I’ve shared the secrets to crafting a delectable Greek Orange Cake, or Portokalopita, highlighting its luscious texture and zesty flavor profile. By incorporating fresh oranges, cinnamon, and a handful of basic ingredients, this dessert becomes a true showstopper. From layering phyllo sheets with butter to infusing the cake with a citrusy syrup, every step contributes to its irresistible taste. The serving suggestions provided aim to elevate your dining experience, offering various ways to enhance the cake’s presentation and flavor. Whether garnishing with citrus zest, pairing with Greek yogurt, or customizing with nuts and fruits, these tips are sure to impress your guests. Embrace the magic of Greek Orange Cake and treat yourself to a delightful culinary adventure.