Melopita Recipe (Greek Honey Pie)

Name: Melopita Recipe (Greek Honey Pie)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 300g ricotta cheese; 200g feta cheese, crumbled; 100ml honey; 3 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 200g phyllo pastry; 50g unsalted butter, melted; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful taste of Greece with this Melopita recipe, a decadent Greek honey pie that blends creamy cheese and sweet honey in a flaky pastry crust. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this pie offers a unique twist on traditional desserts, with flavors that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a memorable treat!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-13T15:29:38.433Z

This Melopita, a traditional Greek dessert, is a celebration of simple yet rich flavors. With its creamy filling and honey drizzling, it embodies the essence of Mediterranean culture.

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation
Unique blend of cheese and honey
Traditionally enjoyed in Greece
Perfect for any occasion or gathering

      

The Essence of Melopita

Melopita, or Greek honey pie, is a dessert that beautifully captures the essence of traditional Greek flavors. Rooted in simplicity, this pie showcases the rich, creamy texture of cheeses like ricotta and feta, harmoniously blended with the sweetness of honey. The crispy phyllo pastry provides a delightful contrast to the smooth filling, making every bite an exciting experience. Enjoyed for generations, Melopita is often prepared during festivities and gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to those who indulge in it.

Whether served on a warm summer evening or during a cozy winter gathering, this pie is sure to please guests of all ages. The ingredients used are not only commonly found in Greek cuisine but also easy to work with, making this dish approachable for home cooks. It is not just a dessert; it is a celebration of love, family, and tradition. Every slice tells a story—one that invites everyone to partake in the rich culinary heritage of Greece.

Tips for Perfecting Your Melopita

To achieve the ideal texture in your Melopita, it’s essential to combine the cheeses thoroughly until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. The balance of flavors is also crucial; the right amount of honey can elevate the pie from good to great. Start with the recommended quantity, but feel free to adjust according to your sweetness preference. Additionally, consider using high-quality, local honey for a more authentic flavor.

When layering the phyllo pastry, don’t rush the process. Take your time to brush each sheet generously with melted butter, which not only adds flavor but also ensures a perfectly flaky and crispy crust. Overlapping the edges and sealing them well will prevent any filling from spilling out during baking, helping you present a flawless pie that your friends and family will admire. Remember, patience is key to achieving that golden-brown finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Melopita:

Melopita Ingredients

300g ricotta cheese
200g feta cheese, crumbled
100ml honey
3 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
200g phyllo pastry
50g unsalted butter, melted
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare and bake your Melopita:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, feta, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Layer the Phyllo Pastry

Grease a round baking dish with some melted butter. Layer 5 sheets of phyllo pastry, brushing each sheet with butter before placing the next one on top.

Add the Filling

Pour the cheese filling into the pastry-lined baking dish.

Finish with Phyllo

Cover the filling with more phyllo sheets, again brushing each with butter, and fold in the edges to seal.

Bake

Bake for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Allow the Melopita to cool before serving. Serve with a drizzle of honey and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Melopita can be enjoyed in various settings, making it extremely versatile. Serve it warm for a comforting dessert or at room temperature for a laid-back gathering. Pair it with a cup of Greek coffee or a glass of dessert wine to enhance its rich flavors further. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it alongside seasonal fruits like berries or citrus. The sweetness of the pie combined with the tartness of fresh fruit creates a delightful balance.

You can also dust the finished Melopita with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of elegance. This not only adds a visual appeal but also provides a hint of sweetness that complements the honey and cheese filling. For special occasions, this pie can be garnished with mint leaves or a drizzle of honey, transforming it into a stunning centerpiece on your dessert table.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, storing Melopita is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to enjoy it again, you can serve it cold, but if you prefer it warm, gently reheat it in the oven at a low temperature. This will help retain its flaky crust and creamy filling without compromising texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing slices of Melopita. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven. This method preserves the delightful flavors and texture, making it a convenient option for impromptu gatherings or cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other soft cheeses, but keep the balance between creamy and tangy.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.