Name: Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie That's Effortlessly Delicious
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 500 grams Ricotta Cheese (Can be substituted with goat/sheep milk ricotta or lactose-free ricotta.); 150 grams Honey (For a different taste, use agave syrup.); 3 large Eggs (Egg replacements like flax eggs can work for egg-free versions.); 50 grams Corn Starch (Substitute with potato starch if needed.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional: use almond extract for a different profile.); to taste Additional Honey (Drizzled on top for extra sweetness.); to taste Ground Cinnamon (Dust lightly for warmth and spice.)

A delicately sweet aroma wafts through the kitchen as the oven timer ticks down, signaling the moment of indulgence—my 5-Ingredient Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie, or Melopita. This delightful treat hails from the tranquil island of Sifnos and captures the essence of simplicity with a creamy texture that rivals your favorite cheesecake. What’s truly magical about this pie is its straightforward preparation; with just five ingredients, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or special gatherings. Plus, with no crust to fuss over, it’s a lightened-up dessert that leaves room for creative variations. Imagine serving it chilled with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon—pure bliss! Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Greece without leaving your home?

Why Should You Try Melopita?

Simplicity reigns supreme with this recipe; just five ingredients make it a breeze to prepare anytime. Creamy Texture rivals traditional cheesecakes, offering a delightful indulgence without the heavy crust. Versatile and customizable, feel free to experiment with flavors like chocolate or citrus. Perfect for gatherings, this pie is sure to impress without stress. Serve it chilled with fresh fruits or a dollop of whipped cream for an exquisite touch! If you enjoy easy yet impressive desserts, you’ll also love our Pecan Pie Cheesecakes or Cranberry Cream Cheese as delightful alternatives!

Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie Ingredients

• Dive into the sweet simplicity of Melopita with just five essential ingredients!

For the Filling

Ricotta Cheese – Provides creaminess and structure; can be substituted with goat/sheep milk ricotta or lactose-free ricotta for dietary needs.
Honey – Acts as a natural sweetener and adds depth of flavor; for a different taste, use agave syrup.
Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and achieving a custard-like texture; egg replacements like flax eggs can work for egg-free versions.
Corn Starch (Corn Flour) – Thickens the filling and helps provide stability; substitute with potato starch if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; optional: use almond extract for a different profile.

For Serving

Additional Honey – Drizzled on top for an extra layer of sweetness, elevating your crustless Greek honey & cheese pie!
Ground Cinnamon – Dust lightly for warmth and spice, enhancing the dessert’s inviting aroma.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven heats up, grab a 20cm (8 inch) springform pan and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This step ensures that your crustless Greek honey & cheese pie can be easily removed later, making cleanup a snap.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, honey, eggs, corn starch, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to thoroughly mix the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The creamy texture is essential for achieving that luscious filling typical of Melopita.

Step 3: Pour the Mixture
Carefully pour the smooth filling into your prepared springform pan. Ensure that the filling is evenly distributed for consistent baking. Using a spatula, gently spread the mixture if needed to create an even surface. This step is crucial for an aesthetically pleasing crustless Greek honey & cheese pie.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes until its top turns a golden brown and the center is set (not wobbly). A toothpick inserted should come out clean; this indicates that your pie is ready to be cool.

Step 5: Cool and Set
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This initial cooling helps stabilize the structure. After that, carefully release the springform and transfer the pie to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Before serving your crustless Greek honey & cheese pie, drizzle additional honey on top and dust lightly with ground cinnamon. These simple yet elegant additions enhance both visual appeal and flavor, providing that extra warmth that makes Melopita so delightful.

How to Store and Freeze Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie

Fridge: Store leftover crustless Greek honey & cheese pie in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the pie fresh and maintains its creamy texture while chilling.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil or in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer your pie warm, gently reheat slices in a preheated oven at 160°C (325°F) for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures even warming without drying out the custard-like filling.

What to Serve with 5-Ingredient Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie?

Imagine delighting your guests with a feast that beautifully complements the creamy, sweet notes of this Mediterranean treasure.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a pop of color and tartness, balancing the pie’s sweetness delightfully.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast and enhances the pie’s flavor while adding a refreshing touch.
Toasted Nuts: Crunchy almonds or walnuts introduce a satisfying contrast in texture, bringing a nutty flavor that marries well with the honey.
Fruity Sorbet: Serve a scoop of lemon or berry sorbet for a cool, palate-cleansing effect that elevates your dessert experience.
Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea complements the pie perfectly, offering a soothing herbal note that refreshes after each bite.
Lemon Zest Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this twist on classic whipped cream adds a citrusy zing that will enhance the Melopita’s rich flavors.
Cinnamon-spiced Apples: Warm, sautéed apples dusted with cinnamon create a comforting dish that harmonizes beautifully with the pie’s warm spices.
Honey Drizzle: A simple drizzle of honey on top just before serving amplifies the flavor profile, ensuring each bite is decadently sweet.

With these delightful pairings, you’ll create a memorable meal around your 5-Ingredient Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie!

Make Ahead Options

These Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing ricotta, honey, eggs, corn starch, and vanilla, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain that creamy texture, make sure to whisk the mixture again before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the filling into your greased pan and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a deliciously light dessert with minimal effort, just as delightful as when made fresh!

Expert Tips for Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie

Smooth Ricotta: Ensure ricotta is completely smooth to yield a creamy texture; blend if necessary for best results in your crustless Greek honey & cheese pie.
Watch the Bake Time: Avoid overbaking, as it can lead to a dry pie; monitor closely in the last few minutes of baking to achieve the perfect golden top.
Zest for Flavor: For added depth, consider incorporating lemon zest into the filling; this will brighten the flavors and offer a refreshing contrast.
Cool Properly: Allow the pie to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then move it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain the pie’s structure.
Serving Storage: This pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; it’s delicious served chilled and pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits.

Variations & Substitutions for Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie

Customizing your Melopita can elevate its charm while still capturing its delightful essence!

Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta with a nut-based cream cheese or firm tofu blended until smooth for a creamy consistency. It retains that luxurious texture while catering to dairy-free diets.
Gluten-Free: Though this pie is naturally crustless, double-check the corn starch is certified gluten-free to ensure everyone can enjoy this treat without worry.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder with the ricotta. This indulgent twist creates a rich and decadent dessert that satisfies any chocolate craving.
Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts into the filling for a delightful crunchy texture. This extra layer adds complexity and nutty depth to the sweet experience.
Citrus Zest: Including lemon or orange zest can elevate the flavor profile, offering a bright, refreshing burst that makes each bite sing with summer vibes. A little zest goes a long way!
Almond Extract: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for an aromatic and nutty flavor that complements the honey beautifully. This variation is perfect for nut enthusiasts.
Mini Desserts: Create individual servings by baking the batter in a muffin tin. These charming little Melopita bites are perfect for parties or snacks on the go!
Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh ginger to the mixture. This unexpected twist can transform each slice into a delightful adventure for your taste buds.

For more delectable ideas, check out our Italian Cheese Log for a unique appetizer, or satisfy your sweet tooth with our delightful Honey Glazed Carrots as a perfect side dish! The world of culinary creativity is just a whisk away!

Crustless Greek Honey & Cheese Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of ricotta cheese should I use for Melopita?
I recommend using fresh ricotta cheese for its creamy texture, which is essential for a luscious pie. You can substitute with goat or sheep milk ricotta if you prefer those flavors. For those with dietary restrictions, lactose-free ricotta is a great option as well.

How should I store leftover Melopita?
Store your leftover crustless Greek honey & cheese pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to develop while keeping the pie fresh and maintaining its creamy texture. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Can I freeze Melopita?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then follow with aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What should I do if my Melopita cracks while baking?
Cracking can happen, especially if the pie is overbaked or if there’s too much air incorporated into the batter. To prevent this, mix the ingredients gently and monitor the baking closely, aiming for a golden top with a set center (not jiggly). A cracked pie might still taste fantastic, so don’t worry too much if it happens!

Are there any dietary considerations for Melopita?
Yes, this recipe can be modified for various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, ensure that the corn starch is certified gluten-free, and use gluten-free substitutes if any extra ingredients are added. If you have egg allergies, flax eggs can replace regular eggs – mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before adding to the mixture.

What should I serve with Melopita?
Pairing Melopita with fresh fruits, such as berries or sliced peaches, adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt can also elevate the dish, providing a creamy texture that complements the pie beautifully. Enjoy exploring different serving options!