The traditional Greek New Year's cake that hides a lucky coin is called vasilopita.
Vasilopita is served on New Year's Day in Greece and in Greek communities around the world. A coin is baked into the cake, and family members or guests receive slices. The person who finds the coin is traditionally believed to have good luck for the coming year. The cake's name means “Basil's pie” or “Saint Basil's pie.”
A common story connects the custom with Saint Basil the Great, who supposedly recovered valuables by placing them inside loaves or cakes for distribution. The story has several versions, and the historical details are part of tradition rather than a verified event.
Recipes vary by region and family. Some vasilopita resembles a sweet bread, while other versions are more like a cake. It is commonly marked with the year, which distinguishes it from ordinary Greek desserts served during the Christmas season.