The Orange cake (known as “Portokalopita) is a staple in every Greek household during the spring and summer seasons — and if you’ve found yourself in Athens or on Crete during this time of year, you’ve probably enjoyed a plate or two (with a shot of raki to wash it down). It is easy to make, delicious and has a sweet yet tangy taste. Many Greeks serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

 

Ingredients:

*For the Cake:*
– 450g (1 lb) phyllo dough, thawed and shredded
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 4 large eggs
– Zest of 2 oranges
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

*For the Syrup:*
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 cinnamon stick

*Instructions:*

1. *Prepare the Phyllo Dough:*
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Shred the phyllo dough into small pieces and let it dry out on a baking sheet for about an hour.

2. *Make the Cake Batter:*
– In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, Greek yogurt, and vegetable oil until smooth.
– Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Stir in the orange zest, baking powder, and vanilla extract.
– Gradually fold in the dried phyllo dough pieces until well combined.

3. *Bake the Cake:*
– Grease a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) and pour the batter into the dish.
– Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. *Prepare the Syrup:*
– While the cake is baking, combine the water, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan.
– Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
– Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

5. *Soak the Cake:*
– Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
– Pour the cooled syrup evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in.
– Let the cake sit for at least an hour to absorb the syrup fully.

6. *Serve:*
– Cut the cake into squares or diamonds and serve. It’s delightful on its own or with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy this sweet and zesty treat, perfect for any occasion!