This Easy Greek Honey Pie features thin, crispy phyllo dough and a sweet honey filling that’s perfect for any dessert lover. It’s a delightful mix of flavors to brighten your day!
I love how each bite is crunchy on the outside and sweet inside. It’s a fun treat to make, especially when you need a little sweetness in your life—just like a warm hug! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Phyllo Dough: This thin pastry provides the beautiful flaky crust. If you can’t find phyllo, you could use graham cracker crust or make a simple pie crust instead. Just remember that the texture will be different!
Ricotta Cheese: It gives that lovely creaminess to the filling. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use part-skim ricotta. Cottage cheese can work too, just drain it well to remove excess moisture.
Cream Cheese: Adds richness. You could substitute it with mascarpone for a slightly different flavor, or use Greek yogurt for a tangy touch—though it’ll change the consistency a bit.
Honey: The star of the show! It’s a must for that sweet flavor. If you prefer a different sweetener, maple syrup could work too, but it will change the taste slightly.
How Do I Handle Phyllo Dough Without Making a Mess?
Phyllo dough can be tricky since it dries out quickly, but here’s how to work with it effectively:
- Thaw the phyllo dough overnight in the fridge, then let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before using.
- Always cover unused sheets with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
- When layering, don’t worry about perfection; just make sure to brush each sheet with melted butter to keep them from sticking.
This layering technique gives the pie its flaky and crispy texture, so take your time and enjoy the process!
Easy Greek Honey Pie with Phyllo Crust
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 package phyllo dough (about 12 sheets), thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing phyllo)
For the Filling:
- 16 oz (450 g) ricotta cheese
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon, plus extra for sprinkling
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For Drizzling:
- Honey, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 45-50 minutes of baking time. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for a bit after baking. In total, allow about 1 hour and 15 minutes to make this delicious dessert. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9-inch pie pan to prepare for your pie.
2. Prepare the Phyllo Crust:
Unroll the phyllo dough and lay one sheet into the buttered pie pan. Brush that sheet generously with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering 6-8 sheets, pressing them gently into the pan and up the sides to create your crust. Cover any remaining phyllo sheets with a damp towel to keep them moist.
3. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Eggs:
Add the eggs into the cheese mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition to make sure everything is combined evenly.
5. Stir in Remaining Ingredients:
Next, stir in the vanilla extract, flour, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest (if using) until everything is well incorporated. This will create a lovely creamy filling.
6. Pour and Smooth:
Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared phyllo crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula for an even finish.
7. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top has turned a lovely golden color.
8. Cool the Pie:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This will help it set up nicely.
9. Dust and Drizzle:
Before serving, lightly dust the top with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Add a generous drizzle of honey over the top to give it that classic sweet touch!
10. Slice and Serve:
Slice your Greek honey pie and serve it up with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy each creamy, sweet, and crispy bite of this delightful dessert!
Indulging in this pie will surely transport you to a sun-kissed Greek café, making it a perfect way to end the day! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Greek Honey Pie with Phyllo Crust
Can I Use Store-Bought Filling Instead of Making My Own?
While it’s best to enjoy the creamy homemade filling for the best flavor and texture, you can use a store-bought cheesecake filling if you’re short on time. Just make sure to adjust the baking time since pre-made fillings may not need as long to set.
Can I Make This Pie Without Eggs?
Yes! To make the pie egg-free, you can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer. Your pie may have a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can enjoy it chilled or reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up!
What Toppings Pair Well With This Pie?
Aside from drizzling honey, you can also top this pie with fresh fruit like berries, walnuts, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence! These additions can elevate the flavors and make for a beautiful presentation.
