The Greek New Year’s Eve or New Year’s cake that hides a lucky coin is called vasilopita.
Vasilopita is traditionally cut around New Year’s Day in honor of Saint Basil, whose feast day is observed on January 1 in the Greek Orthodox tradition. A coin, known as a flouri, is baked into the cake before it is served. Whoever finds the coin in their slice is said to receive good luck for the coming year.
Families commonly make the cutting ceremonial. Slices may be assigned first to religious figures or the household, followed by individual family members. In workplaces, clubs, and community groups, a shared vasilopita cutting is also a common seasonal event.
Recipes vary by region and household. Some versions resemble a sweet bread, while others are more cake-like and may include citrus flavoring or spices. Vasilopita should not be confused with baklava, which is a layered pastry made with filo, nuts, and syrup and is not specifically the Greek New Year’s coin cake.