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Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) Recipe

Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) Recipe

4.9 from 30 reviews

Golden Greek Honey Pie, or Melopita, is a traditional Greek dessert featuring delicate layers of buttery phyllo dough filled with a smooth, semolina custard scented with cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with warm honey and toasted sesame seeds, this pie offers a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, ideal for a comforting treat or festive occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Phyllo Layers

  • 8 sheets of phyllo dough
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

  • 1 cup semolina flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

Topping

  • 1/2 cup honey, warmed
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Layer the Phyllo Dough: Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush it generously with melted butter. Repeat this process with six more sheets, stacking each layer neatly and brushing with butter in between to ensure flakiness.
  3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the semolina flour, eggs, granulated sugar, whole milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  4. Assemble the Pie: Pour the semolina filling evenly over the phyllo base. Then, cover the filling with the remaining phyllo sheet, brushing with butter between each layer. Lightly score the top with a knife to allow for easier slicing after baking.
  5. Bake: Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the surface turns golden brown and the custard is fully set. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
  6. Add Honey and Sesame: Drizzle the warmed honey over the top of the pie and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds evenly. Slice into pieces and serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Using butter between the phyllo layers is essential to achieve a crispy, flaky texture.
  • To warm the honey, place it gently in a microwave-safe container for 15-20 seconds or in a double boiler.
  • Allow the pie to cool slightly after baking so that the filling sets properly before drizzling honey.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
  • For a nuttier flavor, consider adding a handful of finely chopped walnuts to the filling mixture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Melopita, Greek honey pie, semolina custard pie, phyllo dessert, Greek dessert recipe, honey sesame pie