Milk Pie

This delightful milk pie, a comforting dessert often enjoyed in Greek households, is rich in creamy flavor with a light, sweet crust. The filling is a luscious blend of milk, eggs, and a hint of citrus, while the topping gives it a golden, crispy finish. It’s perfect for any occasion or as a sweet treat for family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Cream:

  • 1250 grams of milk
  • 150 grams of sugar
  • 1 tsp of vanilla powder (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • A pinch of salt
  • Zest from 1 small lemon
  • 50 grams of fine semolina
  • 50 grams of all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 50 grams of butter

For the Crust:

  • 2 tbsp of milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 50 grams of sugar
  • 30 grams of butter

For Sprinkling (Optional):

  • Cinnamon and sugar mix

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Begin by greasing a 30 cm round baking pan (or a 23x35 cm rectangular pan) with butter and flour. Ensure the pan is evenly coated.

  2. Make the Cream: In a medium saucepan with a heavy base, pour in 1 liter of milk, reserving the rest for later. Add the sugar, cinnamon stick, lemon zest, vanilla, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

  3. Egg Mixture: While the milk is heating, beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Add the remaining milk, semolina, and flour, whisking until the ingredients are well combined.

  4. Combine Mixtures: Once the milk mixture is hot, gradually add a few ladlefuls of the hot milk into the egg mixture to temper it. Slowly whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the milk. Stir continuously as the cream thickens. When the mixture reaches the first sign of boiling, remove it from the heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely.

  5. Assemble the Pie: Pour the thickened cream into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

  6. Prepare the Crust: In a small bowl, beat together the egg, milk, and sugar. Brush this egg wash generously over the surface of the cream. Cut the butter into small pieces and scatter them evenly across the top.

  7. Bake the Pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the pie for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly puffed.

  8. Optional Topping: If you like, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the pie while it’s still hot from the oven for an extra touch of flavor.

  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool before slicing. Enjoy it as a delicious treat or serve it with a cup of tea.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the milk pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
  • Pair it with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the pie.
  • If you prefer, you can serve it with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
    • Sugar: 18g
  • Fat: 15g
    • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Calcium: 150mg
  • Iron: 1mg

Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients used.

Enjoy your creamy, delicious Milk Pie!