Welcome the New Year with a delightful twist by baking your very own Vasilopita, the traditional Greek sweet bread that’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a symbol of good fortune! Imagine slicing into a beautifully golden loaf, only to discover a hidden coin that promises luck for the year ahead. This enchanting recipe combines the warm flavors of vanilla and orange zest with a soft, pillowy texture that will have your family and friends clamoring for seconds. Ready to impress your guests and create unforgettable memories? Let’s dive into this festive baking adventure that will make your New Year celebrations truly special!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 eggs
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 coin (for tradition)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast by warming milk to lukewarm (110°F) and dissolving yeast, letting it sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and sugar, creaming until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract and orange zest.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour and salt, creating a well in the center to gradually incorporate the yeast mixture.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, forming a soft, slightly sticky consistency.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for approximately 1-
- 5 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and shape into a round loaf, placing a clean, washed coin wrapped in foil into the dough's center.
- Transfer the shaped loaf to a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise again for 45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Traditionally cut on New Year's Day, with the person finding the coin receiving good luck.
Tips
- Activate Your Yeast Properly: Ensure your milk is lukewarm (around 110°F) when activating the yeast. This temperature is perfect for getting the yeast bubbly and ready to work its magic in your dough.
- Cream Butter and Sugar Well: Take your time creaming the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a light texture in your Vasilopita.
- Don’t Rush the Kneading: Knead the dough for a full 8-10 minutes. This develops the gluten, giving your bread that perfect soft and elastic consistency.
- Perfect Rising Conditions: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, consider turning on your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
- Hide the Coin Safely: When placing the wrapped coin in the dough, make sure it’s well-covered so that it’s safe during baking, and everyone can enjoy the tradition without worry.
- Check for Doneness: Your Vasilopita is ready when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you're unsure, use a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Serve with Tradition: Traditionally, Vasilopita is cut on New Year's Day. Make it a fun family event by letting everyone take turns cutting the loaf, and watch the excitement as the coin is discovered!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
