Vasilopita is the Greek New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day cake traditionally cut with a hidden coin inside.
The cake is named for Saint Basil, or Agios Vasilios, whose feast day is celebrated in Greece on January 1. Families and organizations cut the cake ceremonially, often assigning the first pieces to religious figures, the household, guests or absent family members before serving everyone else.
The person who finds the coin is believed to receive good fortune for the coming year. Recipes vary by region and family: some versions resemble a sweet bread, while others are closer to a cake flavored with citrus, spices or nuts. The coin is wrapped carefully before being placed inside so it can be found safely.
Vasilopita is distinct from Greek Christmas sweets such as melomakarona and kourabiedes. The hidden coin is also different from a decorative object baked into some other European festive cakes. Its connection to Saint Basil and January 1 gives vasilopita its specific New Year identity.