Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Luxuriously Moist Greek Orange Phyllo Cake. This exquisite dessert combines the delicate crunch of phyllo pastry with the lush, aromatic essence of fresh oranges. The process, simplified for the modern baker, transforms traditional ingredients into a sumptuous cake soaked in a tantalizing orange syrup. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe offers a straightforward path to a sophisticated and deeply satisfying treat, bursting with citrusy goodness.
Why You’ll Love This:
This Greek Orange Phyllo Cake stands out for its unique texture and depth of flavor. The combination of crispy phyllo, soaked in a homemade orange syrup, creates a dessert that is both rich and refreshing. The addition of Greek yogurt in the batter introduces a creamy tanginess that balances the sweetness perfectly. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience – one that transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with every bite.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for any gathering, this cake shines as a celebratory centerpiece or a festive end to a meal with friends and family. It’s especially fitting for special occasions, offering a refreshing twist on traditional desserts. Serve it at dinner parties, holiday feasts, or as a luxurious weekend treat. It’s also a wonderful way to impress guests at cultural-themed events, providing a taste of Greek hospitality and warmth.
Decoration Tips:
For a truly stunning presentation, garnish the cake with thinly sliced orange rounds, offering a hint of the citrusy journey within. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few mint leaves adds an elegant touch, enhancing its visual appeal. Serve each slice on a delicate plate, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a side of vanilla ice cream, to complement the cake’s vibrant flavors.
Ingredients for a 28/26 cm round pan:
- 10 sheets of phyllo dough
- 150g sugar (3/4 cup)
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 185ml oil (3/4 cup)
- 250ml freshly squeezed orange juice (1 cup)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 200g Greek yogurt
- 10g baking powder
- **For the syrup:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 3/4 cup sugar (150g)
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) with the fan setting for 15-20 minutes to dry out the phyllo sheets after cutting them as shown in the video.
- Crumble the dried phyllo sheets by hand.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs. Add vanilla extract, salt, oil, orange juice, orange zest, and Greek yogurt, combining well before stirring in the baking powder.
- Fold in the crumbled phyllo sheets and mix gently.
- Pour the mixture into a greased pan. Optionally, top with thin orange slices.
- Bake at 175°C (347°F) for 45-50 minutes.
- While the cake bakes, prepare the syrup by boiling all the syrup ingredients for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly, then allow it to cool.
- Pour the cooled syrup over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Let the cake cool and absorb the syrup before serving.
Indulge in the Luxuriously Moist Greek Orange Phyllo Cake, a dessert that promises a melt-in-your-mouth texture and an explosion of fresh, citrus flavors, making every occasion a bit more special. Enjoy! 🍊
