Transport yourself to the sun-kissed shores of Greece with every bite of this exquisite dessert—Greek Orange Cake. Bursting with citrusy flavor and the perfect balance of sweetness, this cake is a celebration of Mediterranean indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a taste of Greece, this recipe will surely become a favorite. So, let’s embark on a culinary journey and discover the secrets to creating this irresistible treat!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) package phyllo dough
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 4 eggs
- 8 oz plain Greek yogurt
- 1 1/4 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Syrup:
- 1 2/3 cup water
- 1 2/3 cup sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy.
- Add the Greek yogurt, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the baking powder, salt, and flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Brush each sheet of phyllo dough with vegetable oil and layer them evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring to overlap the edges slightly.
- Pour the batter over the layered phyllo dough, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. Garnish with additional orange zest or a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pistachios between the layers of phyllo dough.
- Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the syrup for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
- Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
FAQs: Q: Can I use store-bought orange juice for this recipe? A: While fresh orange juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, you can use store-bought orange juice as a convenient alternative. Just make sure it’s 100% pure orange juice without any added sugars or artificial flavors.
Q: Can I make this cake in advance? A: Yes, Greek Orange Cake can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, resulting in an even more delicious cake.
Q: Is it necessary to use phyllo dough for this recipe? A: Phyllo dough adds a delicate crispness to the cake, but if you prefer a denser texture, you can use a traditional cake batter instead. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
Keto Version: For a keto-friendly version of Greek Orange Cake, substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour. Use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia in place of sugar, and opt for full-fat Greek yogurt to keep the cake moist and rich.
Low-Carb Version: To reduce the carb content, use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour in place of the phyllo dough. Skip the syrup or use a sugar-free alternative sweetened with stevia or monk fruit.
In conclusion, Greek Orange Cake is a delightful indulgence that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With its delicate layers of phyllo dough soaked in aromatic syrup and infused with citrusy zest, every bite is a taste of paradise. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat, this cake is sure to transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece.
Embrace the flavors of the Mediterranean and treat yourself to the exquisite pleasure of Greek Orange Cake. From its luscious texture to its vibrant flavors, it’s a dessert that will leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure that’s sure to delight your senses!
Happy baking!
