Golden Greek Honey Pie Recipe

Golden Greek Honey Pie is a show-stopping dessert that celebrates the very best of Mediterranean flavors: crisp phyllo pastry, velvety semolina custard, and a cascade of warm honey all mingling together in every dreamy bite. This recipe blends simple pantry staples into a comforting, nostalgic treat that’s both impressive and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re new to Greek sweets or already a die-hard baklava fan, prepare for this honey pie to capture your heart—and become the centerpiece of your next gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something wonderfully straightforward about this ingredient list—a handful of basics, each chosen with purpose, work their magic together for a truly delicious result. Every item adds its own touch, from the crunch of phyllo to the aromatic warmth of spices and sweet honey drizzle that defines Golden Greek Honey Pie.

• Phyllo Dough (8 sheets): Thin, delicate layers that bake up crisp and golden, creating the signature flaky crust.
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, melted): Brushed between each phyllo sheet for rich flavor and that irresistible crunch.
• Semolina Flour (1 cup): The secret to the pie’s creamy, custardy center—semolina lends a gentle texture unlike any other.
• Large Eggs (3): Essential for binding the custard and adding a luscious richness.
• Granulated Sugar (3⁄4 cup): Sweetens the custard just enough to balance the floral honey without overpowering it.
• Whole Milk (2 cups): Creates a silky, creamy base for the semolina custard—don’t skimp here!
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Invites warm, cozy notes that dance perfectly with honey.
• Ground Nutmeg (1⁄2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle earthiness for extra depth of flavor.
• Pinch of Salt: A little salt sharpens all the sweet and aromatic notes—don’t forget it!
• Honey (1⁄2 cup, warmed): The crowning glory, drizzled over the baked pie for irresistible stickiness and shine.
• Sesame Seeds (2 tablespoons, toasted): Scattered on top for delightful crunch and a nutty finish.

How to Make Golden Greek Honey Pie

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Set the stage for success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a generous greasing so your phyllo sheets won’t stick—and your finished Golden Greek Honey Pie will lift from the pan with ease.

Step 2: Build the Phyllo Base

Carefully lay one sheet of phyllo dough into the prepared dish and brush it all over with melted butter. Layer six more phyllo sheets on top, one at a time, brushing each with butter as you go. You’re creating a crispy, buttery foundation for your luscious custard.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together semolina flour, eggs, granulated sugar, whole milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and that essential pinch of salt. Aim for a silky-smooth batter—the semolina will give it a slightly thickened feel, which is just what you want.

Step 4: Pour and Layer

Pour your custard mixture carefully over the phyllo base. Spread it out gently so every corner is covered. Top with the final sheet of phyllo, then brush it generously with more melted butter. Use a sharp knife to lightly score the top in a decorative pattern—this will help the honey soak in later and give you those gorgeous, bakery-style slices.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye out for a lovely golden-brown finish and a custard that’s set but still tender in the center. Remove from the oven and let the pie cool for about 10 minutes—this brief pause lets the textures settle, making for easier slicing.

Step 6: Glaze and Garnish

Drizzle the entire pie generously with your warmed honey, letting it seep into the scored cuts and along the edges. Finish with a scattering of toasted sesame seeds, which add both flavor and visual flair. Slice and serve your Golden Greek Honey Pie while it’s still warm, or enjoy it at room temperature for a treat that’s just as wonderful.

How to Serve Golden Greek Honey Pie

Garnishes

A simple drizzle of extra honey works wonders, but you can get creative with a dusting of extra ground cinnamon or a small mountain of fresh, seasonal fruit on the side. Don’t skip the toasted sesame seeds—they add a nutty note and beautiful crunch that really set off the flavors of your Golden Greek Honey Pie.

Side Dishes

Pair with espresso, Greek coffee, or black tea for a beautiful afternoon treat, or offer alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or tangy Greek yogurt. The creaminess of these accompaniments highlights the honey and spices, creating a perfectly balanced dessert course.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, cut the Golden Greek Honey Pie into small diamonds or elegant squares, then serve on a rustic wooden board or colorful platter. Miniature individual portions in ramekins or cupcake liners make for an eye-catching addition to any dessert buffet and are perfect for parties or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, keep them happily fresh by covering the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transferring slices to an airtight container. Your pie will stay beautifully moist on the counter for up to two days, or in the fridge for about four days—just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

Golden Greek Honey Pie freezes surprisingly well! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying, or rewarm gently before serving to bring back that fresh-baked sweetness.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a slice in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, loosely covered with foil to prevent drying. This brings back the warm, gooey, just-baked magic—perfect for recapturing that fresh-from-the-oven experience even days later.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought phyllo, and does it need to be thawed?

Absolutely—store-bought phyllo is a huge time-saver, and it’s what most Greek home bakers use! Just be sure to fully thaw it overnight in the fridge and keep it covered with a damp towel while you work so it stays pliable and doesn’t dry out.

Is there a gluten-free substitute for the semolina flour?

Semolina has a unique texture, but if you need a gluten-free version, try using fine cornmeal or a gluten-free flour blend designed for custards. The texture will differ, but you’ll still get that sweet, creamy center and crisp top that makes Golden Greek Honey Pie so special.

Can this pie be made ahead for a party?

Yes! You can bake the pie earlier in the day, then cover and let it cool until it’s time to serve. Add the honey drizzle and sesame seeds just before bringing it to the table for maximum freshness and shine.

What kind of honey works best?

Look for a light, floral honey—Greek wildflower or orange blossom are especially nice—but any good-quality honey you love will work wonders here. The honey is front and center in Golden Greek Honey Pie, so use one that tastes great straight from the spoon.

Can I add nuts or other toppings?

Go for it! Finely chopped toasted pistachios or walnuts are lovely sprinkled on top with, or instead of, the sesame seeds. A shower of powdered sugar or even a handful of edible rose petals will give your pie a little extra wow-factor for special occasions.

Final Thoughts

There’s something honestly magical about baking and sharing a Golden Greek Honey Pie—each slice brings people together, sparking conversation and creating sweet memories. I hope this recipe becomes one of your favorites too, and that you’ll surprise friends or family with the simple joy of this golden, honey-soaked delight!

Print