Vasilopita is the coin-filled cake traditionally served in Greece around New Year's Day.
The name means “Saint Basil's pie” or “Saint Basil's cake,” linking the food to Saint Basil's feast day on January 1 in the Greek Orthodox tradition. A coin called a flouri is baked inside the cake. After the cake is blessed or cut, portions are distributed to family members, guests and sometimes symbolic recipients such as the household or Saint Basil.
The person who finds the coin is traditionally thought to receive good luck for the coming year. Vasilopita recipes vary widely: some are sweet cakes flavored with citrus or mahleb, while others resemble a rich bread or regional pastry.
The coin is hidden before baking and should be handled carefully when the cake is served. Vasilopita is not simply a Christmas dessert; its central role is tied to the New Year and the January 1 observance of Saint Basil.