Table of Contents: Fanouropita Recipe
Fanouropita Recipe
Imagine a moist and aromatic cake, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of orange juice, that’s steeped in tradition and symbolism. Welcome to the world of Fanouropita, a beloved Greek prosperity cake that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, and even easy weeknight meals.
In this article, we’ll delve into the story behind this iconic dessert, its various names and variations, and provide you with a simple recipe to make it at home.
Introduction: FANOUPITA (GREEK PROSPERITY CAKE)
Fanouropita is a traditional Greek cake that’s typically baked on August 27th to commemorate the feast day of Saint Fanourios, a 3rd-century martyr and patron saint of lost items. The cake is often made with ingredients like oil, sugar, and spices, which symbolize prosperity, good fortune, and spiritual growth.
What makes Fanouropita truly special is its rich history and the significance it holds in Greek culture.
In Greece, Fanouropita is more than just a dessert – it’s a gesture of gratitude and devotion. On the eve of Saint Fanourios’ feast day, families would traditionally bake this cake as an offering to the saint, asking for his blessings and protection.
The cake would then be cut into small pieces and distributed to neighbors, friends, and even strangers, as a symbol of kindness and generosity.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious dessert to share with loved ones, Fanouropita is the perfect choice. Its unique blend of flavors and aromas is sure to impress, and its rich history will leave you feeling connected to the vibrant culture of Greece.
Alternate Names & Variations

Fanouropita is also known as Fanouropita bread or Traditional Greek cake. Some variations of this recipe may include additional ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips. If you’re looking for similar recipes, you might enjoy trying:
* Greek coffee cake
* Tsoureki (Greek Easter bread)
* Karidopita (Greek walnut cake)
Ingredients: Fanouropita Recipe
- * 1 cup seed oil
- * 1 cup granulated sugar
- * 1 cup orange juice
- * 1 tsp baking soda
- * 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- * 1/2 tsp ground clove
- * 3 cups self-rising flour
- * 80g/ 3 oz. raisins
- * 80g/ 3 oz. chopped walnuts
Step-by-Step Instructions: Fanouropita Recipe
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- 2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, sugar, and orange juice until well combined.
- 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and clove.
- 4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
- 5. Fold in the raisins and walnuts.
- 6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- 7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 12-15
Approximate calories: 250-300 per serving
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
Fanouropita is a unique dessert that’s both moist and aromatic, thanks to the combination of oil, orange juice, and spices. The self-rising flour adds a tender crumb, while the raisins and walnuts provide natural sweetness and texture. To make this recipe even more special, try using high-quality ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Fanouropita can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Fanouropita can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the cake overnight at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
People Also Ask: Fanouropita Recipe

What is Fanouropita cake?
Fanouropita is a traditional Greek cake that’s typically baked on August 27th to commemorate the feast day of Saint Fanourios. It’s a moist and aromatic dessert made with ingredients like oil, sugar, and spices, which symbolize prosperity, good fortune, and spiritual growth.
What is the tradition of Fanouropita?
The tradition of Fanouropita dates back to ancient Greece, where families would bake this cake as an offering to Saint Fanourios, asking for his blessings and protection. The cake would then be cut into small pieces and distributed to neighbors, friends, and even strangers, as a symbol of kindness and generosity.
What is the purpose of Fanouropita?
The purpose of Fanouropita is to honor Saint Fanourios and seek his blessings and protection. It’s also a way to share kindness and generosity with others, as the cake is traditionally cut into small pieces and distributed to those around you.
What is the Saint Fanourios story?
Saint Fanourios was a 3rd-century martyr who was known for his kindness and generosity. According to legend, he was a young man who was martyred for his faith, but not before he was able to distribute his wealth and belongings to those in need. Today, he is revered as the patron saint of lost items, and his feast day is celebrated on August 27th.
Conclusion: Fanouropita Recipe
Fanouropita is a beloved Greek prosperity cake that’s steeped in tradition and symbolism. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious dessert to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. With its unique blend of flavors and aromas, Fanouropita is the perfect way to connect with the vibrant culture of Greece.
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Easy Fanouropita Recipe (Greek Olive Oil Cake) – Perfect for Any Occasion!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and crunchy goodness of Fanouropita, a traditional Greek dessert made with love and care. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and cloves, and the sweetness of raisins and walnuts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup seed oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground clove
- 3 cups self-rising flour
- 80g/ 3 oz. raisins
- 80g/ 3 oz. chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, sugar, and orange juice.
- Add the baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves, and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the raisins and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured cake pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Notes
Tips: To ensure the cake is moist, don’t overmix the batter. You can also substitute the raisins and walnuts with other dried fruits and nuts of your choice. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Fanouropita, Greek dessert, raisins, walnuts, cinnamon, cloves