Portokalopita Greek Orange Phyllo Cake a beloved classic from Greek cuisine, Portokalopita is a rich and aromatic orange phyllo cake soaked in a zesty syrup. It’s a perfect balance of texture and flavor, made with crumbled phyllo sheets, creamy Greek yogurt, fresh orange zest, and a touch of warm spice. Every bite is moist, tender, and sweetly citrusy—ideal for both everyday indulgence and special gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pack phyllo pastry sheets (about 12–14 sheets)
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
Zest of 2 oranges
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Syrup:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.
I tear the phyllo sheets into small pieces and spread them out on a baking sheet. Then I bake them for about 10 minutes until they’re dry and crispy. After that, I let them cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the Greek yogurt, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, baking powder, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
I gently fold the cooled, crumbled phyllo into the wet mixture.
I pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake it for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set.
While the cake is baking, I make the syrup by combining sugar, water, orange juice, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan. I bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for 5–7 minutes. I remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
When the cake comes out of the oven, I slowly pour the warm syrup over the top. I let the cake soak for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes plus 1 hour resting time
Servings: 12
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap the orange zest for lemon zest for a different citrus profile. For a more decadent version, I’ve added a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter. A splash of orange liqueur in the syrup can elevate it further for dinner parties or holiday tables. And when I want a more textured bite, I sprinkle chopped walnuts or pistachios on top before serving.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover Portokalopita in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It actually tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors deepen. When I want to reheat it, I pop a slice in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.
FAQs
What does Portokalopita mean?
Portokalopita comes from two Greek words: “portokali” meaning orange, and “pita” meaning pie or cake. It’s essentially an orange cake made with phyllo pastry and drenched in syrup.
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
I prefer freshly squeezed orange juice because it gives the syrup a vibrant, natural flavor. But in a pinch, I’ve used store-bought juice—just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar.
Do I need to dry the phyllo before mixing it in?
Yes, drying the phyllo in the oven ensures it absorbs the batter properly and contributes to the cake’s signature texture. I always let it cool fully before folding it in.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely. In fact, I often make it the night before. It allows the syrup to fully soak into the cake, making it even more delicious the next day.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, I’ve made it with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and it turned out great. Just make sure the yogurt has a similar texture to Greek yogurt for best results.
Conclusion
Portokalopita is one of those desserts that feels both homey and luxurious. It’s easy to make, bursting with citrus flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m baking for a celebration or just treating myself on a quiet evening, this Greek orange phyllo cake never fails to impress.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Portokalopita Greek Orange Phyllo Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (including 1 hour soaking time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Portokalopita is a traditional Greek orange phyllo cake soaked in a citrusy syrup. Made with crumbled phyllo sheets, Greek yogurt, fresh orange zest, and a sweet orange syrup, it’s a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 pack phyllo pastry sheets (about 12–14 sheets)
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
Zest of 2 oranges
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Syrup:
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Tear the phyllo sheets into small pieces and spread them out on a baking sheet.
- Bake the phyllo pieces for about 10 minutes until dry and crispy, then let them cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, orange zest, baking powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold the cooled, crumbled phyllo into the wet mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and set.
- While the cake bakes, combine sugar, water, orange juice, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan to make the syrup. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Once the cake is done, slowly pour the warm syrup over the hot cake.
- Let the cake soak for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Notes
Letting the cake soak for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavor.
Use fresh orange juice for the best citrusy taste.
You can substitute lemon zest for a twist or add chocolate chips for richness.
Dairy-free yogurt alternatives work well for a non-dairy version.
Sprinkle chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts for added texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
