Vassilopita is a traditional cake or brioche that is served in New Year’s day. The 1st day of the year is St Basil’s day and the name “vassilopita” comes from his name. According to the tradition, the family gathers and the oldest member of the family distributes to each one a piece. There is a small ritual in the cutting of vassilopita; the first piece is distributed to Jesus, the second one to Virgin Mary, then to the house and then it is distributed to the members of the family starting from the senior and continues till everyone gets a piece. The one who will receive the piece with the coin is considered to be blessed and lucky the whole year. For all of you, who do not have this tradition to your country , I encourage you to start from this year and I wish you a Prosperous and Happy New Year!!!
1 cup butter in room temperature
1 cup brown sugar
3 egg yolks
5 egg whites
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon orange zest
3 cups flour
a handful of raisins
a handful of blanched almonds, processed in the multi
100 gr icing sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon ground clover
1 coin covered in aluminum foil
1. Mix butter and sugar in the mixer bowl until they are fluffy and then add gradually all ingredients until you create a smooth batter. Add the raisins and the almonds and mix with a large spoon.
2. Pour the cake batter in a greased pan and put the coin in the batter.
3. Bake the cake in a preheated oven for 45 minutes ( 180 C).
4. Allow to cool in a rack for 1 hour and decorate by sprinkling with icing sugar mixed with cinnamon and clover.
Enjoy !

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