In the heart of Greece, where the aroma of spices dances in the air, there’s a cherished Christmas tradition of baking divine sweet treats that fill homes with warmth and joy. One such delightful creation is the Melopita Me Kanela, a luscious Honey and Cinnamon Pie that captures the essence of the holiday season in every bite. This heavenly dessert is a perfect blend of rich honey and fragrant cinnamon, enveloped in a delicate, crumbly crust that melts in your mouth. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of Greek baking and whip up a Melopita Me Kanela to elevate your festive celebrations!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and using your fingertips, rub the mixture together until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, beat one egg and the vanilla extract together. Gradually pour this mixture into the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two portions – one slightly larger for the base of the pie and one smaller for the top crust. Wrap both portions in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the larger dough portion on a floured surface to fit the bottom of the greased pie dish. Gently press it into the dish, trimming any excess dough around the edges.
6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, Greek yogurt, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the prepared pie crust.
7. Roll out the smaller dough portion to fit the top of the pie. Carefully cover the honey-cinnamon filling with the top crust. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork or your fingers.
8. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top crust to create a shiny glaze.
9. Using a sharp knife, make a few slits on the surface to allow steam to escape while baking.
10. Bake the Melopita Me Kanela in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
11. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool in the dish for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Sprinkle the top with powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of sweetness and a hint of festive charm.
Indulge in a slice of Melopita Me Kanela with a cup of hot tea or coffee, and let the flavors transport you to a cozy Christmas haven where the essence of honey and cinnamon reigns supreme. This delightful Greek dessert is a true celebration of the season, and your family and guests are sure to be captivated by its irresistible charm. Embrace the spirit of Christmas with every decadent bite of this Honey and Cinnamon Pie, and create lasting memories that will linger long after the holidays have passed. Enjoy and savor the magic of Greek baking at its finest!
