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Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) Recipe

4.8 from 55 reviews

Golden Greek Honey Pie, or Melopita, is a traditional Greek dessert featuring layers of crisp phyllo dough filled with a smooth, spiced semolina custard. Baked to a golden perfection and finished with a drizzle of warm honey and toasted sesame seeds, this pie balances a rich, creamy texture with aromatic spices for a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Phyllo Base

  • 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 Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure the pie does not stick.
  2. Layer Phyllo Dough: Place one sheet of phyllo dough into the baking dish and brush it generously with melted butter. Continue layering and buttering each of the next six sheets, stacking them neatly for a crisp, golden base.
  3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the semolina flour, eggs, sugar, whole milk, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  4. Assemble the Pie: Pour the semolina custard mixture evenly over the layered phyllo base. Then cover with the final phyllo sheet on top, brushing melted butter between each layer to ensure a golden crust. Lightly score the surface with a knife to allow steam to escape during baking.
  5. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the pie is set and the top is a beautiful golden brown. Once baked, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
  6. Finish with Honey and Sesame: Drizzle the warmed honey evenly over the warm pie, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. Slice into portions and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Ensure the phyllo dough is covered with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out while assembling.
  • Warming the honey helps it drizzle smoothly over the pie.
  • Use fresh, high-quality honey and butter for the best flavor.
  • Serving the pie slightly warm enhances the honey aroma and texture.
  • You can toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

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