Description
Golden Greek Honey Pie, also known as Melopita, is a luscious and creamy cheese pie that combines ricotta or anthotyro cheese with honey, lemon zest, and subtle hints of vanilla and cinnamon. This traditional Greek dessert is baked to perfection, yielding a golden top and a smooth, custard-like filling. Perfect for an elegant dessert or a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Filling
- 1 lb (450g) ricotta or anthotyro cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, honey, lemon zest, vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and cinnamon if using. These ingredients create the flavorful filling of the pie.
- Mix Batter: Whisk the mixture vigorously by hand or use a hand mixer until the texture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated for a uniform filling.
- Fill the Pie Dish: Pour the creamy batter into the prepared pie dish and gently smooth out the top with a spatula for even baking and an attractive finish.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is just set but not jiggly, ensuring a perfect custard consistency.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate the pie for at least one hour to set completely and enhance the flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the pie with powdered sugar if desired and drizzle extra honey on top for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Notes
- The type of cheese used can affect the texture and flavor, with ricotta providing a creamy mild base and anthotyro offering a slightly tangier taste.
- The cinnamon is optional but adds a subtle warmth that complements the honey and lemon.
- Ensure not to overbake; the center should be slightly set and creamy rather than dry.
- Chilling the pie enhances the texture and flavor development—it is best served cold or at room temperature.
- This pie pairs beautifully with a cup of Greek coffee or herbal tea.
