Name: Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Greek
Ingredients: 8 sheets phyllo dough; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup semolina flour; 3 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups whole milk; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of salt; 1/2 cup honey, warmed; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Melopita perfectly balances flaky, buttery phyllo with a silky, subtly sweet filling. The nutmeg and cinnamon add cozy spice, while the honey and toasted sesame seeds bring delightful sweetness and texture. It’s a stunning, easy-to-make pie that makes any occasion feel special.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 sheets phyllo dough
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup semolina flour
3 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup honey, warmed
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Preheat oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9-inch pie dish.
Prepare phyllo layers:
Carefully lay one sheet of phyllo in the dish, brushing generously with melted butter. Repeat layering and buttering with 4 sheets, allowing edges to hang over the sides.
Make the custard filling:
In a saucepan, whisk semolina with milk over medium heat until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix eggs and sugar:
In a large bowl, beat eggs with sugar until pale. Slowly whisk in the cooled semolina mixture, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Assemble the pie:
Pour the custard filling over the phyllo layers in the pie dish. Fold the overhanging phyllo sheets over the top, then layer the remaining 4 phyllo sheets on top, brushing each with butter.
Bake:
Sprinkle the top with toasted sesame seeds and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set.
Finish:
Remove from oven and immediately drizzle with warmed honey. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Serves 8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the custard for a citrus twist.
Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Sprinkle chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts on top for extra crunch.
Use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
Add a splash of vanilla extract to the filling for enhanced aroma.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in a warm oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen phyllo dough?

Yes, just thaw it completely according to package instructions before using.

How do I prevent the phyllo from drying out?

Keep phyllo sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel while assembling to prevent drying and cracking.

Can I prepare this pie in advance?

Yes, it can be assembled a few hours before baking and refrigerated until ready.

What kind of honey works best?

Use a mild, floral honey for a subtle sweetness that complements the spices.

Can I make this gluten-free?

You can try gluten-free phyllo alternatives, but texture may vary.

Conclusion

Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) is an elegant dessert showcasing flaky layers and creamy, spiced custard, sweetened naturally with honey. Its delicate textures and warm flavors make it a timeless favorite for festive occasions or a special treat anytime.