During the festive season of Christmas, Greek households come alive with the delicious scents of traditional sweets and pastries. One beloved recipe that is sure to bring joy to your holiday table is Anthotyropita Sweet Cheese Pie. This delectable dessert combines creamy cheese and a hint of sweetness, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to indulge in a cozy treat at home, this Greek Christmas baking recipe is a must-try!
**Anthotyropita Sweet Cheese Pie**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound phyllo dough, thawed
– 1 ½ cups anthotyro cheese, crumbled (substitute: ricotta)
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– ½ cup sugar
– 3 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Filling:** In a mixing bowl, combine the anthotyro cheese, feta cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Set the filling aside.
2. **Assemble the Pie:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of butter. Take one sheet of phyllo dough and place it in the dish, letting the edges hang over the sides. Brush the phyllo sheet with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet until you have used half of the phyllo dough.
3. **Add the Filling:** Spread the cheese mixture over the layered phyllo dough in the baking dish, ensuring an even distribution.
4. **Complete the Pie:** Continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets over the cheese filling, brushing each sheet with melted butter as before. Tuck in the edges of the phyllo to enclose the filling.
5. **Bake to Perfection:** Once assembled, place the Anthotyropita Sweet Cheese Pie in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown and the filling sets.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a festive finish. Cut into squares or slices and serve warm for the best flavor and texture. This delightful dessert is perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season.
This Anthotyropita Sweet Cheese Pie is a delightful Greek Christmas treat that will add a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your festivities. The combination of creamy cheese, a hint of sweetness, and crispy phyllo dough makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at Greek desserts for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting aroma. Enjoy creating memories in the kitchen with this irresistible sweet cheese pie!
