Greek Honey Pie or Melopita Recipe| A Taste of Greece

Greek Honey Pie, also known as Melopita, is a traditional dessert that brings together the best flavors of Greece. This pie is made from phyllo dough, a smooth, creamy filling of honey and yogurt, and sometimes a hint of cinnamon. The combination of these ingredients creates a mouthwatering dessert with layers of crispy dough and a rich, golden filling. It’s a simple yet luxurious treat that is perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want a comforting, sweet dessert to enjoy, Greek Honey Pie is a delicious option. The pie’s texture is divine, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. The honey, often sourced from local bees in Greece, brings a unique sweetness that adds depth and richness to the dish.

What is Greek Honey Pie?

Greek Honey Pie, or Melopita, is a dessert that perfectly blends the natural sweetness of honey with the tangy flavor of Greek yogurt. The layers of phyllo dough create a crisp and flaky crust, while the filling is a rich, creamy mixture of honey, yogurt, eggs, and sugar. It’s a simple dessert with flavors that are rich yet comforting.

In Greece, this dessert is often served during special holidays and gatherings. It’s a pie that has been passed down through generations, and its simplicity makes it a beloved choice for anyone who loves traditional Greek sweets.

Ingredients for Greek Honey Pie

To make Greek Honey Pie at home, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Most of them are easy to find in any grocery store, but using high-quality ingredients, especially the honey, will make a big difference in the flavor of your pie.

For the Pie:

• 8 sheets of phyllo dough (this can usually be found at most grocery stores in the freezer section)
• 1 cup honey (try to use Greek honey for a richer flavor)
• 2 cups Greek yogurt (use full-fat yogurt for the best creamy texture)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but gives the pie a wonderful warm flavor)
• 1 tablespoon butter (melted, for brushing the phyllo dough)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional, for crunch)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons honey (for drizzling on top)
• A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Greek Honey Pie

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Greek Honey Pie. It’s a straightforward recipe that will impress your guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to ensure that the pie bakes evenly and gets that golden, crispy crust.

Next, grease a 9-inch round pie dish with butter to prevent the pie from sticking. You can also use a little bit of parchment paper at the bottom for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Dough

Phyllo dough is thin and delicate, so you’ll need to handle it with care. Unwrap the phyllo dough sheets and cover them with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

Lay the first sheet of phyllo dough in the pie dish, and brush it lightly with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet. You’ll want to use about 6 sheets for the bottom and sides of the pie. Each layer should be buttery and crisp when baked.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, Greek yogurt, honey, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Whisk everything together until it becomes a smooth, creamy mixture.

The honey will give the filling a natural sweetness, while the yogurt adds a creamy texture that balances the richness of the honey. This filling should be thick but pourable, so it will set nicely during baking.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Once the phyllo dough is ready, pour the honey filling into the pie dish over the phyllo dough. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to make sure the filling is smooth and level.

At this point, you can also fold in some chopped walnuts if you’d like to add a little crunch to the pie. Walnuts complement the honey flavor wonderfully and add texture to the otherwise smooth filling.

Step 5: Top the Pie with Phyllo Dough

Now, take the remaining 2 sheets of phyllo dough and lay them on top of the pie. Brush them with melted butter just like the bottom layers. These top sheets will create the final golden, crispy crust.

It’s okay if the top sheets overlap a little. Just tuck any extra edges into the sides of the pie dish. This will help hold everything in place while it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is set. The filling should no longer jiggle when you shake the pie dish gently.

If the pie’s top starts browning too quickly, cover it with a piece of aluminum foil and continue baking. The foil will prevent the top from burning while the rest of the pie continues to cook. Once it’s done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Drizzle with Honey

After the pie has cooled slightly, drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey on top. This gives the pie a beautiful shine and adds an extra layer of sweetness. The honey will soak into the pie, making each bite even more delicious.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

To finish, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the top of the pie. This adds a lovely aroma and gives the pie an extra touch of warmth. If you like, you can also add a handful of chopped walnuts on top for some extra crunch and flavor.

Why Make Greek Honey Pie?

Greek Honey Pie is not only delicious but also simple to make. The combination of honey, yogurt, and phyllo dough creates a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. It’s a great dessert for special occasions, but it’s also easy enough to enjoy on any day.

Here are a few reasons why you should make Greek Honey Pie:

1. Rich in Flavor: The honey and yogurt give the pie a natural sweetness and creaminess that make every bite unforgettable.
2. Easy to Make: This pie is simple and quick to prepare, so you don’t need to be a professional baker to make it.
3. Impressive: Despite its simplicity, Greek Honey Pie looks beautiful when served, making it the perfect dessert for dinner parties or family gatherings.
4. Versatile: You can enjoy it warm or chilled, and it pairs well with tea, coffee, or even a glass of dessert wine.

Tips for the Best Greek Honey Pie

• Use Fresh Phyllo Dough: If you’re using frozen phyllo dough, make sure to thaw it completely before using it. Fresh dough will give the pie a better texture.
• Quality Honey is Key: The flavor of the honey is one of the main components of this dessert, so try to use high-quality, pure honey for the best taste.
• Don’t Overfill: The filling should be just enough to cover the phyllo dough without overflowing. This will prevent the pie from becoming soggy.
• Bake at the Right Temperature: Make sure to bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for the perfect golden crust and set filling.
• Add Extra Flavor: If you love cinnamon, you can increase the amount in the filling for a stronger flavor. You can also add lemon zest for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

Greek Honey Pie is perfect for serving after a Mediterranean meal, especially one with grilled meats or savory dishes like moussaka or Greek salad. You can enjoy it as a dessert during special holidays like Easter or Christmas or simply as a sweet snack with coffee.

It pairs well with Greek coffee, which is strong and aromatic, or with a refreshing glass of iced tea. For an extra indulgence, serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storing the Pie

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine), store them in an airtight container. At room temperature, the pie will last for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the pie before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use regular honey instead of Greek honey?
Yes, you can use regular honey. However, Greek honey has a unique flavor that makes the pie extra special. If you have access to it, definitely give it a try!

2. Can I make the pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it. It tastes just as good the next day. Just add the honey drizzle and cinnamon garnish before serving.

3. What if my phyllo dough tears?
If your phyllo dough tears, don’t worry! Just use another sheet to patch it up. The layers are forgiving, and it won’t affect the final result.

4. Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Yes, you can add fruits like figs, apples, or berries. Just make sure to adjust the amount so the filling doesn’t become too runny.

5. How long will leftovers last?
Leftover Greek Honey Pie can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Greek Honey Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the best of Greek flavors, honey, yogurt, and phyllo dough. It’s simple to make, yet it delivers rich, comforting flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just want a treat to enjoy, this pie will never disappoint. Try it today and enjoy the sweet, golden goodness of this traditional Greek dessert!