Vasilopita New Year Bread
Celebrate the New Year with Vasilopita, a traditional Greek sweet bread that’s as symbolic as it is delicious. This homemade bread is infused with the delicate flavors of orange zest and vanilla, creating a soft, aromatic loaf with a golden crust. A hidden foil-wrapped coin is tucked inside the dough, adding a fun element of surprise to the dining experience—whoever finds it is said to be blessed with good fortune for the year ahead! Topped with sesame seeds or almonds for a touch of crunch and a dusting of powdered sugar for festive flair, this holiday bread is perfect for gatherings. With its warm, slightly sweet flavor and soft texture, Vasilopita is a charming centerpiece for your New Year celebrations. Whether shared at midnight or during a brunch, it’s a delicious way to start the year on a high note!
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Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 0.25 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds or sliced almonds (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1 piece foil-wrapped coin
Directions
Step 1
In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan over low heat, warm the milk until slightly warm to the touch. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter, sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool to lukewarm.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 of the eggs (reserving 1 for later) and slowly incorporate the cooled milk mixture.
Step 4
Add the foamy yeast mixture to the egg and milk mixture, stirring to combine.
Step 5
Gradually add in the flour and salt, 1 cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment until the dough comes together and is slightly sticky.
Step 6
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with a stand mixer for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
Step 7
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1.5-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Step 8
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to deflate and knead it a few times. If you’re including a coin, wrap it securely in aluminum foil and tuck it into the dough.
Step 9
Shape the dough into a round loaf (or braid it if you prefer) and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased round cake pan.
Step 10
Cover the shaped dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it has slightly puffed up.
Step 11
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 12
Brush the top of the dough with the reserved beaten egg for a shiny finish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or sliced almonds if using.
Step 13
Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 14
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
Step 15
Once completely cooled, dust the top generously with powdered sugar for a festive look.
Step 16
Slice and serve! Don't forget to see who finds the lucky coin hidden inside.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1368.6g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3995.1 |
| Total Fat 134.0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 73.1g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g | |
| Cholesterol 1024.3mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1586.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 609.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 17.9g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 234.8g | |
| Protein 89.4g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 271.4IU | 0% |
| Calcium 647.2mg | 0% |
| Iron 28.2mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1446.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories