When life gives you oranges, why not transform them into a delightful Greek Orange Cake, known as Portokalopita? This luscious treat has a way of brightening your kitchen and your mood. Picture this: freshly zested oranges blending with the crunch of phyllo pastry, all drizzled in a sweet, citrusy syrup that dances on your taste buds.

After a long day of juggling responsibilities, I often find solace in the simplicity and joy of baking. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for everyone—from seasoned chefs to anyone seeking to escape the monotony of fast food. Plus, it’s a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, inviting friends and family to dig in and share stories.

With its warm aromas of cinnamon and the sun-kissed tang of orange, this recipe effortlessly brings everyone together. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious adventure that promises only satisfaction and delight!

Why is GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA special?

Delightful flavors: The fusion of zesty oranges and aromatic cinnamon creates a cake that’s bursting with flavor.
Unique texture: Combining crunchy phyllo with a moist cake offers an extraordinary bite that keeps you coming back for more.
Easy preparation: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice bakers and culinary enthusiasts.
Perfect for gatherings: Its stunning presentation and scrumptious taste make it a showstopper for any occasion.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it plain, or elevate it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an extra indulgence.
A taste of tradition: Bringing a piece of Greek heritage to your kitchen, this cake invites you to share and celebrate life’s sweet moments.

GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA Ingredients

For the Syrup
• Granulated sugar – 2 cups (500ml) add sweetness and depth to your cake.
• Water – 2 cups (500ml) acts as the base for your luscious syrup.
• Orange juice – ⅓ cup (100ml) fresh juice infuses vibrant orange flavor.
• Cinnamon stick – adds a warm, spicy note that complements the oranges.
• Orange peels – from 3 oranges, providing an aromatic zest to the syrup.

For the Cake
• Pastry phyllo dough – 1 pound (500g), thawed, gives the cake its unique texture.
• Greek yogurt – 1 cup (200g), strained, contributes to moistness and richness.
• Granulated sugar – 1 cup (220g), sweetens the batter to balance the tartness of orange.
• Sunflower oil – 1 cup (250ml) maintains moisture and provides a tender crumb.
• Orange juice – 1 cup (250ml) fresh juice intensifies the citrus flavor throughout.
• Baking powder – 2 tablespoons, ensures the cake rises beautifully.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, enhancing the overall sweetness with a fragrant touch.
• Orange zest – from 1-3 oranges, amplifies that fresh orange zing you’ll adore.
• Salt – a pinch, elevates and balances the sweet and citrus flavors.

Dive into this GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA adventure and savor every delicious bite!

How to Make GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA

Prepare the syrup: In a pot, combine all syrup ingredients and bring to a boil. Once boiling, set aside to cool without stirring. This step infuses a beautiful orange flavor!
Prepare phyllo sheets: Remove the phyllo sheets from the package, unfold them, and cut in half. Stack the halves to ensure they’re easy to handle for the next steps.
Choose your phyllo method: For Shredded Phyllo: Shred the phyllo into small pieces and place them in a baking dish to dry, giving them a twirl for extra texture.
For Twisted Nests: Cut the phyllo sheets into strips, roll tightly, and cut into approximately ½ inch (1 cm) strips, then twist into a big nest for that gorgeous presentation.
Preheat and grease: Preheat your oven to 340°F (170°C) and generously grease a 9×13 inch (25×32 cm) baking pan. Ensuring it’s greased well prevents sticking when it’s time to serve!
Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and orange juice until smooth. Stir in sunflower oil, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Combine mixtures: Gently fold in the prepared phyllo shreds or strips bit by bit into the wet ingredient mixture, aiming for an even distribution throughout.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and place it on the upper rack of your preheated oven. Bake until it’s golden and a toothpick comes out clean, usually about 40-45 minutes.
Soak in the syrup: Once out of the oven, ladle the cold syrup slowly over the hot cake, allowing each ladle to be absorbed before the next. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes; for best results, chill in the freezer for an hour or overnight.
Serve and enjoy: Serve topped with ice cream or Greek yogurt for an indulgent treat that balances the cake’s sweetness perfectly.

Optional: Add chopped nuts for a delightful crunch on top.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain its moisture while allowing those delightful orange flavors to develop further.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy the cake again, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds, or in the oven at a low temperature until just heated through.

Serving: Maintain the cake’s signature moistness by adding a drizzle of fresh orange syrup just before serving. This reintroduces that vibrant flavor, making every bite exceptional.

GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA Variations

Feel free to discover your creativity and make this cake your own with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a creamy, non-dairy option that offers a hint of tropical flavor.
Nutty Surprise: Add 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the batter for additional crunch and rich flavor complements.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the finished cake for a decadent chocolate-orange combination that’ll thrill dessert lovers. It adds a delightful, bittersweet twist!
Citrus Medley: Combine lemon or grapefruit juice with the orange juice for a complex citrus profile that brightens the flavors beautifully.
Herbal Note: Infuse the syrup with a few sprigs of fresh mint or rosemary as it cooks for a refreshing herbal touch that complements the oranges perfectly.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some ground ginger or nutmeg into the batter for a warm spice boost that pairs wonderfully with the zest.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free phyllo dough or almond flour in place of regular phyllo for a delightful gluten-free alternative that’s just as delicious.
Fruit Topping: Top your cake with fresh berries or citrus segments for a burst of color and flavor, enhancing both presentation and taste!

Let your imagination run wild and create the perfect GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA that reflects your personal taste!

What to Serve with GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA?

Indulging in this delightful orange cake invites a world of flavors and accompaniments that will enhance your dining experience.

Greek Yogurt: The creamy texture of Greek yogurt beautifully contrasts the cake’s sweetness, creating a refreshing balance with every bite. Top it with a sprinkle of orange zest for an extra pop!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream brings a melty, comforting element that harmonizes perfectly with the citrusy notes of the cake.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and vibrant fruit salad adds a refreshing and juicy contrast, enhancing the cake’s warm flavors while providing a delightful crunch.
Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey elevates the sweetness of the cake and introduces a lovely floral note. Drizzling it over a slice brings out the best in this treat!
Mint Tea: Sipping on fragrant mint tea after enjoying a slice provides a soothing finish and complements the sunny citrus notes with its herbal freshness.
Cinnamon Toast: Pairing the cake with crispy cinnamon toast offers a delightful crunch and enhances the warm spices present in the cake, creating a cozy experience.
Pistachio Crumble: Chopped pistachios sprinkled on top lend a great texture and nutty flavor that accentuates the cake’s richness. Each bite becomes a little adventure!
Sparkling Water with Citrus: Refresh your palate with a bubbly glass of sparkling water infused with lemon or lime. It cleanses the taste buds and adds a zesty kick.

Expert Tips for GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA

Perfect Syrup Soak: Always ladle the syrup over the hot cake slowly, allowing each addition to absorb. This ensures maximum flavor without sogginess.
Avoid Tough Phyllo: Handle phyllo dough carefully and keep it covered with a damp towel while working to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.
Storing Leftovers: Store leftover cake in the fridge, but for optimal texture, warm it slightly before serving to revive its flavors and moistness.
Color & Crunch: If you prefer a golden crust, bake until it’s a deep shade of gold—just be cautious not to overbake and dry it out.
Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, you can reduce the sugar in the cake batter or syrup for a less sweet experience while maintaining the beloved orange flavor.
Garnish Freely: Top the finished cake with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or fresh orange slices for a beautiful and vibrant presentation.

Make Ahead Options

These GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA make-ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the syrup and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, the phyllo pastry can be shredded or twisted into nests and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours to maintain crispness. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the final steps by mixing the phyllo with the wet ingredients and baking it fresh. This thoughtful prep allows you to enjoy a delicious dessert with minimal effort when you need it most!

GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe oranges for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select oranges that are firm to the touch and vibrant in color. Look for ones with smooth skins and avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate they are past their prime. Fresh oranges should feel heavy for their size, which usually means they are juicy and sweet!

How should I store leftover GREEK ORANGE CAKE?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the cake’s moistness while allowing those delicious orange flavors to marry beautifully. For best results, you can place a piece of wax paper between the cake and the lid to prevent it from getting soggy.

Can I freeze GREEK ORANGE CAKE?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it slightly in the microwave or oven before serving to restore its delightful texture.

What if my phyllo dough tears?
Oh, do not worry! Phyllo can be delicate, and a tear isn’t the end of the world. If you find a tear, simply overlap the pieces slightly and rework them into your dish. Alternatively, you can adjust your method to use smaller pieces, creating a more rustic look that can be equally beautiful. Just remember to handle it with care and keep it covered while working.

Is this cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, it is! This GREEK ORANGE CAKE – PORTOKALOPITA is nut-free as written, making it a suitable treat for those with nut allergies. However, as some recipes call for optional nuts as a garnish, be sure to omit those if needed. For added nutrition without nuts, consider topping it with fresh fruit instead.

How long should I let the cake rest before serving?
Great question! Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes after soaking the syrup. This waiting period lets the flavors meld beautifully and ensures that each bite is bursting with sweetness. For an even better treat, chill it in the fridge overnight before serving; it brings out the flavors even more!