Vasilopita is the Greek New Year’s cake traditionally cut to reveal a hidden coin.
The name vasilopita means Saint Basil’s pie or cake. It is prepared for New Year’s celebrations in Greece and in Greek communities around the world. A coin, called the flouri, is concealed inside before the cake is served.
The cake is ceremonially cut, usually beginning with portions dedicated to Christ, Saint Basil, the household, and guests before individual slices are distributed. Whoever finds the coin is traditionally considered fortunate for the coming year, and may receive a small gift or symbolic prize.
Recipes vary by region and family. Some versions resemble a citrus-flavored cake, while others are closer to a sweet bread. Vasilopita is not the same as tsoureki, the braided Easter bread, or melomakarona, a honey cookie commonly associated with Christmas in Greece.