Greek Honey Cheese Pie: A Deliciously Sweet and Savory Dessert Recipe

Greek Honey Cheese Pie is a delightful dessert that beautifully marries the rich flavors of creamy cheese with the sweetness of honey, creating a dish that is both indulgent and comforting. This traditional Greek dessert, known as “Kataifi,” has roots that trace back to ancient Greece, where honey was revered not only for its taste but also for its medicinal properties. Over the centuries, this pie has evolved, becoming a beloved staple in Greek households and celebrations alike.

People adore Greek Honey Cheese Pie for its unique combination of textures—the crispy, flaky pastry enveloping a luscious, creamy filling is simply irresistible. The warm, aromatic notes of cinnamon and the golden drizzle of honey elevate this dish, making it a perfect ending to any meal or a delightful treat for special occasions. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a comforting snack, this pie captures the essence of Greek hospitality and culinary tradition, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of flavor and culture.

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 3-4 tablespoons cold water
• For the filling:
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup honey
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• For the topping:
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add the softened unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 3 tablespoons of cold water. Gradually add this mixture to the flour and butter mixture, stirring until the dough begins to come together. If the dough is too dry, add an additional tablespoon of cold water.
4. Once the dough is formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1 minute until smooth.
5. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the dough to firm up and make it easier to roll out.

Preparing the Filling

1. While the crust is chilling, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, crumbled feta cheese, and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the honey, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to the cheese mixture. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend everything together until the filling is creamy and well incorporated.
3. Taste the filling and adjust the sweetness if necessary by adding more honey, depending on your preference.

Assembling the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Make sure it is large enough to fit into a 9-inch pie pan.
3. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
4. Pour the prepared cheese filling into the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Using a fork, gently poke a few holes in the filling to allow steam to escape during baking.

Baking the Pie

1. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
2. Check the pie at the 30-minute mark. If the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil to prevent burning.
3. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.

Preparing the Topping

1. While the pie is cooling, prepare the topping. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey until it

Conclusion:

In summary, this Greek Honey Cheese Pie is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that makes it a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a unique dessert experience. The creamy, sweet cheese filling perfectly complements the flaky pastry, while the drizzle of honey adds a touch of natural sweetness that elevates the dish to new heights. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a festive celebration, or simply enjoying it as a treat for yourself, this pie is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing the Greek Honey Cheese Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience. You can also experiment with variations by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating different types of cheese or infusing the honey with herbs for a unique twist. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Your feedback and personal touches can inspire others to create their own versions of this delicious Greek Honey Cheese Pie. Don’t forget to share your photos and thoughts on social media, as we would love to see how your pie turns out! Embrace the joy of baking and savor every bite of this delightful dessert.

Print