Greek Orange Phyllo Cake

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Here’s a big, complete recipe based on a beloved traditional Greek cake that travelers often fall in love with. Since you didn’t specify the exact dessert, I’m giving you one of the most iconic and unforgettable Greek cakes people rave about after vacation: Portokalopita — the ultra-moist Greek Orange Phyllo Cake drenched in syrup.

If this isn’t the one you meant, you can still use or enjoy this version!

🟠 INTRODUCTION

Portokalopita is a heavenly Greek dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, creamy yogurt, fresh oranges, and a cinnamon-orange syrup poured over the baked cake. It’s fragrant, moist, and wildly addictive. Many discover it in Greek tavernas and can’t forget its bright citrus aroma and custard-like texture.

🟠 INGREDIENTS

For the Cake:

  • 1 packet phyllo dough (about 300g / 10–12 sheets)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup (200g) sugar
  • 1 cup (240g) Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil or light olive oil
  • Zest of 2 large oranges
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For the Syrup:

  • 1½ cups (300g) sugar
  • 1½ cups (360ml) water
  • ½ cup (120ml) fresh orange juice
  • Strips or zest of 1 orange
  • 1 small cinnamon stick or ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 2 tbsp honey

🟠 INSTRUCTIONS & METHODS

✦ Step 1: Prep the Phyllo

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F / 180°C.
  2. Open the phyllo sheets, tear or crumble them into small pieces, and spread them on trays.
  3. Let them air-dry for about 30 minutes or bake very briefly at low heat to dry. This prevents sogginess.

✦ Step 2: Make the Syrup (Do this first so it cools)

  1. Add sugar, water, orange juice, zest/peels, and cinnamon to a saucepan.
  2. Simmer for 7–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

✦ Step 3: Make the Batter

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.
  2. Add yogurt, oil, orange zest, vanilla, and baking powder. Mix well.
  3. Add the dried, shredded phyllo bit by bit, folding it into the batter until evenly combined.

✦ Step 4: Bake

  1. Pour batter into a greased baking dish (about 9x13in / 23x33cm).
  2. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and set.

✦ Step 5: Add the Syrup

  1. Once the cake is out of the oven, use a toothpick to poke small holes.
  2. Pour the cool syrup over the hot cake slowly to allow even absorption.
  3. Let it rest at least 1–2 hours (or overnight) before cutting.

🟠 HISTORY

Portokalopita comes from rural Greek kitchens, especially in Crete and mainland tavernas. It was originally created as a way to use leftover phyllo and the abundant oranges grown in Mediterranean orchards. Over time, it became a nationwide favorite served at celebrations, cafes, and seaside restaurants.

🟠 BENEFITS

✔ Uses leftover phyllo—zero waste!
✔ Oranges are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
✔ No butter; uses yogurt and oil for moisture
✔ Keeps well for days and tastes better over time
✔ Simple ingredients but luxurious flavor

🟠 FORMATION (Structure & Layering)

  • Crumbled phyllo forms the base texture instead of flour.
  • The egg-yogurt custard binds it into a soft cake.
  • The syrup soaks in, creating layers of moisture and citrus intensity.
  • You can top with nuts, chocolate drizzle, or powdered sugar after cooling.

🟠 CONCLUSION

Portokalopita is everything people love about Greek desserts—bright citrus, light sweetness, a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and simple homemade charm. It’s the kind of cake you try once and crave forever.

🟠 LOVERS (Who Enjoys It)

  • Travelers remembering Greek islands
  • Families during holidays
  • Café dessert lovers
  • People who adore orange-flavored sweets
  • Anyone who wants a no-fuss, no-mixer recipe with wow-factor

🟠 NUTRITION (Approx. per slice, 12 servings)

  • Calories: ~280–320
  • Carbs: 38–42g
  • Sugars: 28–32g
  • Fat: 11–14g
  • Protein: 5–6g
  • Fiber: 1–2g

🟠 FINAL NOTE

This cake is ideal to make ahead, gift, or serve at gatherings. You can garnish with orange slices, candied peel, almonds, or whipped cream. If this isn’t the cake you remembered, just tell me and I’ll recreate another Greek classic!

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