August 27 is the Feast Day of St. Fanourios the Martyr. Traditionally, on the day before the saint’s feast day fanouropita, a special cake, is baked and taken to church for blessing at the Great Vespers, the evening service, for the saint. At the conclusion of the service, the fanouropites are shared among those in attendance. According to tradition, at least nine people should have a piece of the delicious and nistisimo (fasting-appropriate because no animal products are in the ingredients) cake.

St. Fanourios the Martyr has helped countless people find lost items and according to tradition, after you pray and find the said lost item, you bake a cake (fanouropita) in honor of the saint which is shared as a thanks-offering. The traditional version features nuts and raisins and is topped with sesame seeds or powdered sugar according to family recipes passed down through the generations.

The following recipe and its variations can be enjoyed any time of the year, adding seasonal fruits or a variety of nuts, if preferred, especially during periods of fasting since the cake is made without eggs or milk, making it a vegan-friendly treat as well.

St. Fanourios is also known as the Newly-Found, since his icon was first discovered in the year 1500 on the island of Rhodes. The icon depicted the saint in the garb of a Roman soldier holding a cross of martyrdom in his left hand and a lit candle in his right hand along with twelve scenes from his martyrdom. From his clothing and the severity of the tortures he suffered as a Christian at the hands of the Romans, St. Fanourios is thought to have lived in the second or third century AD.

Traditional Fanouropita

3 1/2 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon Greek sea salt

1 1/3 cups orange juice

3/4 cup Greek extra virgin olive oil

1/2 cup ouzo