Name: Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 8 sheets of phyllo dough; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 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; 1/2 cup honey, warmed; 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted

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Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) is the kind of dessert that instantly transports you to a sun-soaked island in the Aegean with every luscious bite. This indulgent treat layers crisp, buttery phyllo over a creamy, aromatic custard filling, before being lavishly drizzled with honey and showered with toasted sesame seeds. The combination of semolina, spices, and that signature golden honey creates a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for sharing with friends and family over coffee or as a show-stopping finale to your next gathering.

Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients—you probably have most of them in your pantry right now! Each one brings its own character, from adding structure and richness, to delivering those warm, fragrant notes that define this classic Hellenic dessert.

Phyllo dough (8 sheets): Provides those irresistibly crisp, flaky layers that cradle the filling beautifully.
Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Bathes each phyllo layer in richness and helps develop a beautiful golden top.
Semolina flour (1 cup): Adds body to the custard, resulting in a slightly grainy, pudding-like texture.
Large eggs (3): Bind the filling together and give it that classic custardy structure.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the filling just right, balancing the aromatic spices.
Whole milk (2 cups): Gives the pie its creamy, luscious mouthfeel—don’t skimp on the full-fat version!
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): A dash of this adds a deep, warming aroma that’s unmistakably Greek.
Ground nutmeg (1/2 tsp): Brings a gentle, nutty spice note that plays well with the honey.
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, so don’t forget this tiny but mighty ingredient.
Honey (1/2 cup, warmed): The crowning glory; opt for Greek honey if you can for the most authentic flavor.
Toasted sesame seeds (2 tbsp): Sprinkle over the top for a delicious, nutty crunch and extra golden appeal.

How to Make Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita)

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Get things started by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously—this helps prevent sticking and makes sure each slice lifts out with ease. Lining up all your ingredients and tools before you begin makes the process feel smooth and, dare I say, downright fun.

Step 2: Layer the Phyllo Base

Lay a single sheet of phyllo dough in your prepared dish and brush it generously with melted butter. Repeat this process with six more sheets, stacking them one atop the next. Don’t worry about minor tears; overlapping creates delicious texture and no one will notice a few imperfections once it’s baked.

Step 3: Mix Up the Luscious Custard

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the semolina flour, eggs, granulated sugar, whole milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and that essential pinch of salt. Whisk until everything is perfectly smooth and well combined, as this will ensure the custard bakes up creamy and even.

Step 4: Pour and Top with More Phyllo

Pour your creamy filling over the phyllo base, letting it settle evenly. Gently place the last sheet of phyllo on top and give it a good brush with butter to help it brown beautifully. Lightly score the surface with a sharp knife to mark your serving slices. This makes for a pretty finish and helps the honey soak in later.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Perfection

Pop your creation into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown, lightly puffed top, and a custard that’s just set but still invitingly soft in the center. Let the pie cool for about 10 minutes; this short rest helps all those luscious textures meld together.

Step 6: Drizzle and Top for the Grand Finale

While still warm, drizzle the generous half-cup of warmed honey over the top, letting it soak into the crevices. Finish by showering with toasted sesame seeds, which cling to the sticky top and look just as beautiful as they taste. Slice and serve while just warm, or let it rest to room temperature for easy slicing.

How to Serve Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita)

Garnishes

For that classic look and added flavor, nothing beats a final drizzle of extra honey right before serving. Try sprinkling a bit more toasted sesame or even a pinch of cinnamon across each slice. If you want to really impress, a few fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side fit right in with the Mediterranean vibe.

Side Dishes

Serve your Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) with a chilled glass of Greek dessert wine or a strong, syrupy coffee. Fresh fruit, like slices of orange or figs, add a splash of color and a tart contrast to the sweetness of the pie. For a relaxed brunch, try it alongside Greek yogurt and a bowl of lightly toasted nuts.

Creative Ways to Present

For a showstopping dessert tray, cut the pie into diamonds and arrange them on a platter with clusters of grapes and edible flowers. Or, make mini versions in muffin tins for easy sharing at parties. If you’re feeling playful, layer individual slices with thick yogurt in parfait glasses for a deconstructed twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator. Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) stays fresh for up to three days; just be sure to keep it tightly wrapped to prevent the phyllo from drying out.

Freezing

Want to get ahead? You can tightly wrap individual slices and freeze for up to two months. Just be aware that while the custard holds up beautifully, the phyllo may not be quite as flaky once thawed—still delicious though!

Reheating

To enjoy that just-baked taste again, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This will help crisp up the phyllo and revive the honey’s aromatic allure. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but the oven is best for keeping the texture right.

FAQs

Can I make Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) with store-bought phyllo, or does it have to be homemade?

Absolutely, store-bought phyllo works perfectly and saves a lot of time. Just make sure to thaw it properly and keep it covered with a damp towel while working, as it dries out quickly.

What type of honey is best for Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita)?

A high-quality Greek honey is ideal for authentic flavor—look for wildflower, thyme, or pine varieties. If you can’t find Greek honey, any flavorful, aromatic honey will do the trick.

Should I serve Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) warm or cold?

It’s wonderful both ways! Serve it warm for a super gooey, comforting dessert, or at room temperature for easier slicing and serving—both highlight the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this pie ahead for a party?

Definitely! You can bake the pie a day in advance, let it cool, and cover tightly. Wait to drizzle the honey and sprinkle sesame seeds until just before serving for the freshest presentation.

I’m allergic to sesame—can I skip the seeds?

Yes, feel free to omit the sesame seeds or swap them out for slivered almonds, chopped pistachios, or even a dusting of extra cinnamon for a different but equally lovely topping.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a showy yet soul-soothing dessert, Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) delivers every time. With its warm spices, creamy custard, and golden honey drizzle, it’s sure to win hearts wherever it lands. Give it a whirl—you might just add this Greek gem to your regular dessert rotation!

Golden Greek Honey Pie (Melopita) Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 18 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of Greece with this exquisite Golden Greek Honey Pie, also known as Melopita. Layers of phyllo dough encase a luscious semolina custard, topped with a golden honey glaze and toasted sesame seeds.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer Phyllo Sheets: Place one sheet of phyllo in the dish, brush with melted butter, and repeat with 6 more sheets, stacking them evenly.
Prepare the Custard Filling: Combine semolina, eggs, sugar, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl. Pour over the phyllo layers.
Top with Phyllo: Add the last phyllo sheet on top, brushing with butter between layers and scoring lightly with a knife.
Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and set. Let cool for 10 minutes.
Finish and Serve: Drizzle warmed honey over the pie, sprinkle with sesame seeds, slice, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Greek