Ingredients with Measurements:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until everything is well combined.
6. Fold in the raisins.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
This recipe makes one 9-inch cake, which serves 8-10 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 405
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 147mg
Sugar: 33g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier version.
- Instead of raisins, you can use chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or cherries.
- You can substitute the ground cinnamon with nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger.
Variations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
- Drizzle the top of the cake with a glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar to avoid lumps.
- Do not overmix the batter as it can result in a tough cake.
- Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the batter to plump them up.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the cake, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warm.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar and serve it on a cake stand.
- Cut the cake into slices and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or dried fruit on top of the cake before serving.
- Top the cake with a few fresh berries or a sprig of mint.
Pairings:
- Serve the cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
- Pair it with a glass of sweet dessert wine like Moscato or Port.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Greek yogurt with honey and nuts
- Cheese platter with crackers and grapes
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the cake is too moist, bake it for a few more minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the cake.
- Store the cake in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
- Do not consume the cake if it has been left at room temperature for more than 3 days.
Food History:
- Vasilopita is a traditional Greek cake that is usually baked on New Year's Day. It is named after Saint Basil, who was known for his generosity and kindness. The cake contains a hidden coin or trinket, and whoever finds it is said to have good luck for the rest of the year.
Flavor Profiles:
- The cinnamon and raisins give the cake a warm, comforting flavor that is perfect for the winter months.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cake as a dessert or as a sweet breakfast treat.
Related Categories
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Region: Greek
Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Nutty, Cinnamon, Raisin, Cinnamon-Y, Raisin-Y