This Karithopita is a traditional Greek dessert that perfectly balances rich, earthy walnuts with a light, honeyed syrup. The cake batter, made with Bisquick for convenience, is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, creating an aromatic experience before it even hits the oven. The key to this dish is the hot syrup, which soaks into the warm cake, delivering a tender, moist crumb and a glossy finish. Bright strips of orange and lemon peel add a refreshing zest that cuts through the sweetness. It is an elegant yet simple dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or any occasion where you want to serve something comforting and deeply flavorful. Serve it at room temperature for the best texture.
Karithopita Spiced Walnut Cake
Description
This Karithopita is a traditional Greek dessert that perfectly balances rich, earthy walnuts with a light, honeyed syrup. The cake batter, made with Bisquick for convenience, is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, creating an aromatic experience before it even hits the oven. The key to this dish is the hot syrup, which soaks into the warm cake, delivering a tender, moist crumb and a glossy finish. Bright strips of orange and lemon peel add a refreshing zest that cuts through the sweetness. It is an elegant yet simple dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or any occasion where you want to serve something comforting and deeply flavorful. Serve it at room temperature for the best texture.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, Bisquick, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, salt, ground cloves, baking powder, 2 cups sugar, 2 1/2 cups chopped walnuts, milk, and vegetable oil.
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Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for 5 minutes until smooth and well combined.
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Increase mixer speed to high and beat for an additional 15 seconds to aerate the batter.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
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Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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While the cake bakes, prepare the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 3/4 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, orange peel strip, lemon peel strip, and cinnamon stick.
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Bring the syrup mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
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Add honey to the syrup and return to a boil.
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Remove the syrup from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
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Let the syrup cool slightly, then remove and discard the orange peel, lemon peel, and cinnamon stick.
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Once the cake is baked, let it sit in the pan for 2 hours to cool slightly but remain warm.
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Pour the prepared syrup evenly over the warm cake.
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Sprinkle the top with 1/4 cup chopped walnuts and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2282.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 188.5g290%
- Saturated Fat 23.3g117%
- Cholesterol 2.3mg1%
- Sodium 5046.9mg211%
- Total Carbohydrate 145.8g49%
- Dietary Fiber 10.4g42%
- Sugars 128.4g
- Protein 26.0g52%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. The flavor improves as the cake absorbs more syrup over time.
Variations: You can substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor, though the texture may be slightly denser.
Tip: Ensure the cake is still warm when you pour the syrup so it absorbs fully. If the cake is completely cold, the syrup will sit on top.
