Introduction
This delightful orange phyllo cake, also known as Portokalopita, is a traditional Greek dessert that combines.
the crispiness of phyllo dough with the moist, citrusy flavor of orange syrup. It’s an irresistible combination of textures and flavors that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.
Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is light yet indulgent, with a hint of cinnamon to complement the vibrant orange zest.
Whether served as a sweet treat after a meal or with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
For the Cake
Phyllo dough sheets, torn into small pieces
Eggs
Greek yogurt, full-fat for creaminess
Vegetable oil
Granulated sugar
Orange zest
Baking powder
Vanilla extract
For the Syrup
Freshly squeezed orange juice
Water
Granulated sugar
Cinnamon stick
Orange slices (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to a moderate temperature and greasing a baking dish. Let the phyllo dough sheets thaw completely.
then tear them into small pieces and spread them out to dry slightly. This step ensures they’ll bake into a crisp texture.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, orange zest, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are smooth and well combined.
Fold the torn phyllo dough pieces into the wet mixture, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. Be gentle to avoid breaking the phyllo into overly small fragments.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the top is golden brown and the cake is set.
While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by combining the orange juice, water, sugar, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let the syrup simmer for a few minutes, then remove it from heat to cool.
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Pour the cooled syrup over.
the warm cake, ensuring even coverage. The cake will absorb the syrup, making it moist and flavorful.
Garnish with orange slices if desired, and let the cake sit for a while to allow the syrup to soak in fully before serving.
How to Make
For the best results, use full-fat Greek yogurt, as it adds creaminess and enhances the cake’s texture.
Make sure the phyllo dough is completely thawed and slightly dried before tearing it into pieces. This ensures the dough absorbs the wet ingredients evenly.
When folding the phyllo dough into the mixture, work gently to avoid overmixing. This helps maintain the cake’s light and airy texture.
Cooking the syrup to just the right consistency is key. It should be thick enough to coat a spoon but not overly sticky. Allow the syrup to cool before pouring it over the cake for even absorption.
To enhance the citrus flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest. Avoid pre-packaged juice, as it may lack the vibrant taste needed for this recipe.
Bake the cake until it is golden brown, but don’t overcook it, as this can make the texture dry. Test the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
Pouring the syrup over a warm cake allows it to soak in deeply, creating a moist and flavorful dessert. Ensure the syrup is spread evenly for the best results.
Allow the cake to rest for at least an hour before serving. This time lets the flavors meld together and ensures a deliciously moist texture.
Tips
Dry the phyllo dough pieces slightly before mixing to prevent sogginess. Spread them out on a baking sheet while preparing the other ingredients.
For an extra touch of flavor, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter. These spices pair beautifully with orange.
To make slicing easier, score the cake into portions before pouring the syrup. This helps the syrup penetrate evenly and creates neatly cut pieces.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain freshness. The cake’s flavors often deepen and improve after a day.
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar in the syrup slightly without affecting the texture or overall flavor.
For a festive presentation, decorate the cake with candied orange slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lemon or grapefruit, for a unique twist on this traditional recipe.
Conclusion
This orange phyllo cake is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of Greek cuisine. The combination of citrusy freshness.
sweet syrup, and delicate phyllo layers creates a dessert that is both satisfying and refreshing.
Whether you’re recreating a taste of Greece or simply looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is sure to delight.
Share it with family and friends, and enjoy the warm, inviting flavors of this Mediterranean treat.