Vegan Fanouropita: A Delicious Greek Raisin, Walnut, and Olive Oil Cake (Easy Recipe)
Fanouropita, a traditional Greek cake, is typically offered to Saint Fanourios in the hope of finding lost items or blessings. This vegan version retains all the heartwarming flavors of the original – the rich aroma of olive oil, the sweet burst of raisins, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts – while being completely plant-based. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, making it a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a name day, searching for your lost keys, or simply craving a delicious, comforting cake.
What is Fanouropita?
Fanouropita (Φανουρόπιτα) translates to “Fanourios’ pie” and is a special type of cake baked in honor of Saint Fanourios, the saint of finding lost things. It’s customary to bake this cake on August 27th, Saint Fanourios’ feast day, but it can be made any time you need a little help finding something you’ve lost, be it physical objects, inspiration, or even peace of mind. The ingredients are traditionally said to represent different aspects of life and faith, with the even number of ingredients symbolizing harmony and balance.
The traditional recipe usually contains dairy and eggs, but this vegan version proves that you can enjoy the same delicious flavors and textures without animal products.
Why This Vegan Fanouropita Recipe Works
* **Plant-Based Goodness:** This recipe is completely vegan, making it accessible to a wider audience without compromising on flavor or texture.
* **Simple Ingredients:** You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. Olive oil, flour, sugar, raisins, walnuts, and spices are the stars of the show.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special equipment or complicated techniques. Even novice bakers can achieve excellent results.
* **Moist and Flavorful:** The combination of olive oil, raisins, and walnuts creates a cake that is incredibly moist, flavorful, and satisfying.
* **Traditional Flavors:** This recipe captures the essence of traditional Fanouropita with its classic blend of spices and ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Flour:** 3 cups all-purpose flour (or a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat for a slightly nuttier flavor)
* **Sugar:** 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness)
* **Olive Oil:** ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil (use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor)
* **Orange Juice:** 1 cup fresh orange juice (adds moisture and a bright citrus flavor)
* **Raisins:** 1 cup dark or golden raisins (or a mix of both)
* **Walnuts:** 1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted for enhanced flavor, optional)
* **Baking Powder:** 2 teaspoons
* **Baking Soda:** 1 teaspoon
* **Cinnamon:** 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* **Ground Cloves:** ½ teaspoon ground cloves
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon (optional, but enhances the flavor)
* **Pinch of Salt:** ¼ teaspoon (enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors)
* **Water:** ¼ cup (if needed, to adjust the consistency of the batter)
Equipment You’ll Need
* Large mixing bowl
* Whisk or electric mixer
* Measuring cups and spoons
* 9×13 inch baking pan (or a round cake pan)
* Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
* Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to bake a perfect vegan Fanouropita:
**Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan (or a round cake pan) with olive oil. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to slice and serve.
**Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients**
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Make sure to break up any clumps of flour or baking powder to ensure even distribution throughout the batter. This will help the cake rise evenly and have a light, airy texture.
**Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients**
Add the olive oil, orange juice, and vanilla extract (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix well until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
**Step 4: Incorporate Raisins and Walnuts**
Gently fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The raisins will add sweetness and moisture, while the walnuts will provide a satisfying crunch.
**Step 5: Adjust Consistency (If Needed)**
If the batter seems too thick, add a little water (about ¼ cup) until it reaches a pourable consistency. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but thin enough to spread easily in the pan.
**Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan**
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the surface of the batter and ensure that it is level.
**Step 7: Bake the Cake**
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched.
**Step 8: Cool the Cake**
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and make it easier to slice.
**Step 9: Dust with Cinnamon Sugar (Optional)**
Once the cake is completely cooled, you can dust it with cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor. Simply mix together equal parts cinnamon and sugar and sprinkle it over the top of the cake.
**Step 10: Slice and Serve**
Slice the cake into squares or triangles and serve. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Fanouropita is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips for Making the Best Vegan Fanouropita
* **Use High-Quality Olive Oil:** The flavor of the olive oil is prominent in this cake, so use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results. A fruity and slightly peppery olive oil will add depth and complexity to the flavor of the cake.
* **Toast the Walnuts:** Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter will enhance their flavor and add a more pronounced crunch. To toast the walnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly golden brown.
* **Soak the Raisins:** Soaking the raisins in warm water or orange juice for 30 minutes before adding them to the batter will plump them up and make them extra juicy. This will also help to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, and then gently fold in the raisins and walnuts.
* **Adjust the Sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar by ¼ cup. You can also use a natural sweetener like coconut sugar or maple syrup.
* **Add Other Spices:** Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice. A pinch of each can add a warm and complex flavor to the cake.
* **Use Different Nuts:** If you don’t have walnuts on hand, you can substitute them with other nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. Make sure to chop the nuts into small pieces before adding them to the batter.
* **Add Citrus Zest:** Adding the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter will enhance the citrus flavor and add a refreshing aroma to the cake.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You may also need to add a little more liquid to the batter to achieve the desired consistency.
* **Add Chocolate Chips:** For a chocolatey twist, add ½ cup of vegan chocolate chips to the batter. This will add a rich and decadent flavor to the cake.
Variations and Additions
* **Apple Cinnamon Fanouropita:** Add diced apples and increase the cinnamon for a fall-inspired version.
* **Orange and Almond Fanouropita:** Replace walnuts with slivered almonds and add orange zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Chocolate Chip Fanouropita:** Mix in vegan chocolate chips for a more decadent treat.
* **Lemon Fanouropita:** Use lemon juice instead of orange juice and add lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
* **Spiced Fanouropita:** Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice for a warmer, more complex flavor.
Serving Suggestions
* Enjoy a slice of Fanouropita with a cup of Greek coffee or herbal tea.
* Serve it as a dessert after a traditional Greek meal.
* Offer it as a gift to friends and family on Saint Fanourios’ Day.
* Bring it to a potluck or bake sale.
* Enjoy it as a comforting snack any time of day.
How to Store Vegan Fanouropita
* **Room Temperature:** Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
* **Refrigerator:** Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
* **Freezer:** Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
**Q: Can I use different types of flour?**
A: Yes, you can use a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor. You can also use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
**Q: Can I use a different type of oil?**
A: While olive oil is traditional for Fanouropita, you can substitute it with another neutral-flavored oil, such as canola oil or sunflower oil. However, the flavor will be slightly different.
**Q: Can I use a different type of sugar?**
A: Yes, you can use coconut sugar or maple syrup as a natural sweetener. Keep in mind that these sweeteners may affect the flavor and texture of the cake.
**Q: Can I add other ingredients?**
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with other ingredients, such as diced apples, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
**Q: How do I know when the cake is done?**
A: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cake should also be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
**Q: Why did my cake sink in the middle?**
A: This can happen if the oven temperature is too low, or if the batter is overmixed. Make sure to preheat your oven to the correct temperature and avoid overmixing the batter.
**Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
Vegan Fanouropita Recipe
**Yields:** 12-16 servings
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 35-40 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
* ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
* 1 cup fresh orange juice
* 1 cup raisins
* 1 cup chopped walnuts
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ½ teaspoon ground cloves
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ¼ cup water (if needed)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. Add olive oil, orange juice, and vanilla extract (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in raisins and walnuts.
5. If the batter is too thick, add water until it reaches a pourable consistency.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with cinnamon sugar (optional).
10. Slice and serve. Enjoy!
Conclusion
This vegan Fanouropita recipe is a delightful and easy way to enjoy a traditional Greek cake. With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and delicious flavor, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for Saint Fanourios, searching for something lost, or simply craving a comforting dessert, this recipe is sure to bring joy and satisfaction. Embrace the flavors of olive oil, raisins, and walnuts, and create a cake that is both delicious and meaningful. Kali Orexi! (Enjoy your meal!)