Vasilopita

Ingredients:

500g unsalted butter, softened

500g caster sugar

8 free range eggs

60ml freshly squeezed orange juice

60ml fine cognac

500g self raising flour

Coin, sterilised

Icing sugar to dust 

Method:

1. Pre-heat oven Gas 4/180c/160c and line a 25cm round spring form cake tin and set aside.
2. Place all ingredients except the coin and icing sugar into a large mixing bowl and beat with an electric whisk until smooth and combined. 
3. Pour mixture into cake tin and spread evenly with spatula then throw in the sterilised coin. 
4. Place on middle shelf in oven and bake for 45mins to 1 hour, can test when ready using knife by placing in centre of cake and if it comes out clean the cake is ready.
5. Allow cake to stand for 10 minutes then take out of the cake tin and allow to cool on cooling rack.
6. Sprinkle cake with icing sugar; can use a doily to create a lace effect. Cut and serve to family and friends; the person who finds the coin is said to be granted good luck for the year ahead.

Happy New Year!