Discover the irresistible flavors of Greek Orange Cake with this easy-to-follow recipe. Made with phyllo dough, Greek yogurt, and fresh orange zest, this moist and fragrant dessert is soaked in a sweet syrup infused with cinnamon and citrus. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a special treat, this traditional Greek dessert is both unique and delicious.
Ingredients for Greek Orange Cake
Cake 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 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Syrup Ingredients
- 1 2/3 cup water
- 1 2/3 cup sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Phyllo Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your cake. Next, open the phyllo dough package and unroll the sheets. Spread them out on a baking sheet or clean surface and let them dry out for about 20 minutes. This drying step is essential as it helps the phyllo dough to crumble easily.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
While the phyllo dough is drying, start preparing the cake batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, sugar, and eggs. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended and slightly frothy. This process ensures that your cake will have a light and airy texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add the Greek yogurt, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. The yogurt adds a tangy richness, while the orange juice and zest infuse the batter with a vibrant citrus flavor.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Add the baking powder and salt to the batter, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as it can make the cake dense rather than fluffy.
Step 5: Combine Phyllo Dough and Batter
Once the phyllo dough is dried out, tear or crumble it into small pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish. Use both rolls of phyllo dough; it will compress as you add the batter. Pour the batter over the phyllo dough and gently mix to combine. This step ensures that the phyllo dough pieces are well-coated with the batter, creating a unique texture.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time allows the cake to set and develop a beautiful crust.
Step 7: Prepare the Syrup
While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, orange zest, and cinnamon stick. Cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the syrup begins to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
Step 8: Soak the Cake
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the syrup over the top while the cake is still hot. This allows the cake to absorb the syrup thoroughly, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to come to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until the syrup is fully absorbed. Serve chilled, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Making the Perfect Greek Orange Cake
Choosing the Right Phyllo Dough
Phyllo dough can be found in the freezer section of most grocery stores. Be sure to thaw it properly before using. If you can’t find phyllo dough, you can substitute with puff pastry, but the texture will be slightly different.
Using Fresh Oranges
For the best flavor, use fresh oranges for the juice and zest. The zest contains essential oils that add a fragrant, citrusy aroma to the cake.
Adjusting the Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup. Conversely, if you have a sweet tooth, a little extra sugar in the syrup can make the cake even more decadent.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of Greek coffee or a simple black tea. The bitterness of the coffee or tea complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. The cake will keep well for up to a week, and the flavors often improve after a day or two as the syrup continues to infuse the cake.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of citrus for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute the orange juice and zest with lemon or lime for a different flavor profile. Each will give a unique twist to the cake.
Q: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
A: If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt or even sour cream. The texture and tanginess will be slightly different but still delicious.
Q: How do I prevent the phyllo dough from drying out too quickly?
A: If you’re in a dry climate or working in an air-conditioned room, cover the phyllo dough with a slightly damp cloth while it dries. This helps control the drying process.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead can enhance the flavors as the syrup has more time to soak into the cake. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator.
Q: Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of this cake?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free phyllo dough and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.
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