The Iconic Vasilopita of Agiasos: A Traditional Recipe

The Vasilopita of Agiasos is a traditional sweet pastry made with 35 to 50 layers of phyllo dough, butter, olive oil, spices, and a filling of cheese mixed with sugar.
Traditionally, the Vasilopita of Agiasos was made for the New Year. Due to its nutritional value, it also served as a hearty snack for farmers, especially during the olive harvest.
The origin of the Vasilopita is unclear, but it is believed to be a monastic delicacy associated with Saint Basil of Caesarea (Basil the Great) of Cappadocia.