Get ready to indulge in a sweet and savory journey through Greece with these 18 mouthwatering cake recipes! From traditional treats like galaktoboureko custard pie to creative twists like baklava cheesecake, we’ve gathered the most delicious and authentic Greek cake recipes for you to try. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new dessert to impress your friends, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of Greece, showcasing classic cakes like revani semolina cake and karidopita walnut spice cake, as well as innovative creations that blend traditional flavors with modern twists. With ingredients like orange syrup, honey, yogurt, and walnuts, these cakes are sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed hills of Greece.
Stay tuned for our first recipe, Greek Orange Cake with Syrup – a moist and flavorful delight that’s perfect for any occasion!
Greek Orange Cake with Syrup
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the brightness of orange zest and juice, paired with a sweet and tangy syrup. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Syrup ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, orange zest, and orange juice.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan; bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. To make syrup, combine sugar, water, and orange juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Drizzle warm syrup over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Yogurt and Honey Cake
A moist and flavorful cake infused with the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of Greek yogurt, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, Greek yogurt, and honey. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baklava Cheesecake
This rich and creamy cheesecake combines the classic flavors of baklava with a crunchy walnut crust, perfect for dessert or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and walnuts. Stir until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
6. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Revani Semolina Cake
Revani semolina cake is a traditional Greek dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a deliciously sweet and fragrant cake with a lovely orange syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together semolina flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, orange zest, and orange juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before drizzling with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Walnut Cake with Cinnamon
This moist and flavorful cake combines the richness of walnuts and the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon orange juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and orange juice (if using).
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Galaktoboureko Custard Pie
This traditional Greek dessert is a must-try, combining flaky phyllo pastry with creamy custard and sweet honey. Galaktoboureko is a beloved treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and melted butter. Temper the egg yolks by gradually adding the warm milk mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Unroll phyllo dough and brush with melted butter. Place a layer of phyllo in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Pour custard mixture over phyllo, followed by another layer of phyllo and brushing with butter.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and drizzle with honey.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake infused with the zest of Greece – lemon, olive oil, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in Greek yogurt until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Karidopita Walnut Spice Cake
This traditional Karidopita Walnut Spice Cake is a staple of Greek cuisine, with the warm aromas of spices and sweetness of walnuts filling your home. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar, brown sugar, and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs, then stir in flour mixture and walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Chocolate Cake with Mastiha
This moist and decadent Greek chocolate cake is elevated by the unique flavor of mastiha, a traditional Cretan resin. The combination of dark chocolate, creamy mascarpone cheese, and a hint of anise-like mastiha creates a truly special dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon mastiha powder
– 8 ounces (225g) dark chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and mastiha powder.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips and let cool slightly. Fold into the batter.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Portokalopita Orange Phyllo Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a creative twist on traditional Greek cuisine, featuring the sweetness of oranges and the crunch of phyllo. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, orange juice, oil, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
4. Layer phyllo dough in the prepared pan, brushing each sheet with melted butter (about 6-8 sheets).
5. Pour batter over phyllo layers.
6. Top with remaining phyllo sheets, sealing edges by tucking them under the previous layer.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Honey Cake with Almonds
This classic Greek dessert is a sweet treat that combines the richness of honey with the crunch of almonds. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, honey, milk, egg, baking powder, and salt until smooth.
3. Fold in sliced almonds and olive oil.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Greek Coffee and Walnut Cake
Elevate your baking game with this rich and aromatic cake that combines the bold flavors of Greek coffee and the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a special occasion or as a treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons instant Greek coffee powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter and eggs. Add Greek coffee powder and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Spiced Pumpkin Cake
Experience the warmth of Greece with this aromatic pumpkin cake infused with traditional spices and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tbsp orange zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in pumpkin puree, yogurt, orange zest, and orange juice.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Yogurt and Olive Oil Cake
This Greek yogurt and olive oil cake is a perfect combination of flavors, with the tanginess of yogurt balanced by the richness of olive oil. The result is a moist and tender cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, eggs, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Almond and Orange Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of oranges with the nutty goodness of almonds, all wrapped up in a Greek-inspired package. Perfect for a special occasion or just because!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– Zest of 1 orange (about 2 tablespoons)
– Juice of 1 orange (about 3 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, milk, almonds, orange zest, and juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Tahini and Honey Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the rich flavors of tahini and honey with a hint of Greek spices, perfect for a special occasion or everyday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine tahini paste, honey, yogurt, egg, and olive oil. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Fig and Walnut Cake
A moist and flavorful cake that combines the sweetness of figs with the earthiness of walnuts, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped figs and walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Carrot Cake with Yogurt Frosting
Celebrate the flavors of Greece with this moist and delicious carrot cake, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the brightness of citrus. Topped with a tangy yogurt frosting, it’s the perfect dessert to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add grated carrots, softened butter, eggs, and Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the yogurt frosting, whisk together 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Spread or drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Greece with these 18 delectable traditional cake recipes. From classic semolina cake to innovative cheesecake twists, each dessert is infused with the country’s iconic ingredients like orange, honey, and walnuts. Discover how to make a moist orange cake with syrup, a creamy yogurt and honey cake, or a decadent baklava cheesecake. These mouthwatering treats are sure to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
