A coin traditionally hides the lucky prize in Greece's New Year's vasilopita cake.
Vasilopita is a Greek New Year's cake or bread named after Saint Basil, whose feast day is celebrated on January 1 in the Greek Orthodox tradition. A coin, called a flouri in many accounts, is baked into the cake before it is served. The person who finds it in their slice is believed to receive good fortune for the coming year.
Families often cut the vasilopita ceremonially after midnight or on New Year's Day. The first slices may be assigned symbolically to Christ, Saint Basil, the household, or absent family members before individual portions are distributed. Recipes vary by region and family, ranging from sweet cakes flavored with citrus to richer breads.
The coin must be concealed safely, and modern bakers may wrap it before placing it in the mixture. Vasilopita is not simply a dessert: cutting it combines a religious feast, family gathering, and fortune tradition in one New Year ritual.