Name: Phanouropita Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted; 2½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 cup sugar; ¾ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil); 1 ¼ cup orange juice; ½ cup golden raisins (or other raisin variety); ½ cup chopped walnuts (or almonds/pecans); Powdered sugar (optional, for decorating)

Phanouropita is a beloved Greek vegan cake that comes wrapped in both flavor and tradition. Lively with citrus, warmly spiced with cinnamon, and generously studded with walnuts and raisins, this humble dessert is as satisfying as it is symbolic. Whether you’re baking to honor a special event or simply want a deliciously moist orange cake to share with friends and family, Phanouropita brings an irresistible slice of Greek culture to your home, inviting both new and familiar faces to gather around and savor something meaningful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Phanouropita serves a thoughtful purpose, creating a cake that’s rich in flavor but easy on effort. From the bold notes of olive oil to the fruity brightness of orange juice and the cozy warmth of cinnamon, this is a cake where simplicity shines and every bite is special.

All Purpose Flour: Use a good quality, sifted flour for that signature tender crumb and even rise.
Baking Powder: This lifts the cake beautifully, giving you a soft and airy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch balances out the sweetness and helps all the flavors bloom.
Cinnamon: Adds gentle spice and a hint of nostalgia that makes every slice irresistible.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake while also helping it stay moist and tender as it bakes.
Olive Oil: Brings richness and keeps this cake lusciously moist with a light, Mediterranean flavor. You can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
Orange Juice: Infuses the entire cake with zesty freshness—use freshly squeezed for the brightest taste.
Golden Raisins: Plump and juicy, these little bursts of sweetness can be swapped with your favorite raisins.
Chopped Walnuts: Offer delightful crunch and a toasty, nutty flavor—almonds or pecans work well, too!
Powdered Sugar (optional): A light dusting on top is the classic finish for plenty of Greek cakes, delivering a pretty, delicate sweetness.

How to Make Phanouropita

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start your Phanouropita adventure by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While that’s warming up, line the base of a 10-inch pan with parchment paper and grease the sides with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. This quick step means your cake will pop out effortlessly and look picture-perfect.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Sifting first ensures your batter stays lump-free, and the cinnamon gets evenly distributed—every bite should taste cozy!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Let your stand mixer take center stage here. Pour in the sugar, olive oil, and orange juice, then use the paddle attachment to blend everything until it’s velvety smooth. This trio forms the backbone of your cake, locking in moisture and building flavor right from the start.

Step 4: Bring it All Together

Set your mixer to its lowest speed and slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Patience here pays off—incorporating the dry ingredients gently keeps your batter light and the finished cake tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Goodies

Time for texture! Add in the chopped walnuts and golden raisins, then give the batter a gentle mix until everything’s just combined. These little treasures are what set Phanouropita apart, giving it character with every bite.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your lovely batter to the prepared pan, evening out the top with a spatula. Bake on the middle rack for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, the house smells divine, and the top is beautifully golden.

Step 7: Cool and Finish

Let the cake cool in its pan for five minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely. Once cooled, a gentle dusting of powdered sugar is the perfect finishing touch, making your Phanouropita ready for any celebration—or just a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Serve Phanouropita

Garnishes

Powdered sugar is a timeless, elegant topping for Phanouropita, but you can also sprinkle on some extra chopped walnuts or a light drizzle of fresh orange glaze for extra flair. Freshly grated orange zest scattered over the cake just before serving adds fragrance and a pop of color that always draws compliments.

Side Dishes

Phanouropita is delightful with a cup of strong Greek coffee or a soothing chamomile tea. For a more decadent touch, serve with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla or orange sorbet to echo the cake’s citrusy notes. It’s just as welcome at breakfast with fruit as it is for dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

To make Phanouropita the centerpiece of your table, try cutting it into diamond or square shapes and arranging them on a rustic wooden board. Miniature versions baked in cupcake tins are perfect for parties or gifting. For a festive Greek twist, wrap slices in parchment and tie with twine for sharing during special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Phanouropita keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to three days, especially if you store it in an airtight container. If your kitchen gets warm, pop it in the fridge to help it stay fresh and moist—just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

This cake is freezer-friendly! Slice any leftovers and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then pack them into a zip-top bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven.

Reheating

If you like your Phanouropita a little warm, place a slice on a baking sheet and heat in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for 8 to 10 minutes. This revives the fluffy texture and wakes up the cinnamon and orange aromas. Avoid microwaving, as it can toughen the cake.

FAQs

Is Phanouropita always vegan?

Yes, traditionally Phanouropita is made without eggs or dairy, making it naturally vegan and perfect for a wide range of dietary needs. The olive oil and orange juice work their magic to keep the cake rich and moist.

Can I substitute other nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap walnuts for almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts, and try swapping raisins for currants or chopped dried apricots. Just keep the total amount about the same for the best texture.

What’s the meaning behind Phanouropita?

Phanouropita is often baked to honor Saint Phanourios, the patron saint of lost things. Traditionally, it’s made as an offering when seeking help in finding something important, making each cake heartfelt and full of hope.

How do I know when Phanouropita is done baking?

Check by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (but no wet batter), your Phanouropita is perfectly baked! The top should feel springy and look evenly golden.

Can I make Phanouropita gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Since this cake relies on orange juice and oil for moisture, it stays nicely tender even with gluten-free swaps.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a sweet treat with heart, history, and a whole lot of flavor, Phanouropita is the cake for you. Baking it is a joy, and sharing it is even better. Give it a try, and you may just start your own new favorite tradition!