Name: Milk Tart Ruffled Phyllo Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 78 sheets Phyllo Pastry; 1 cup Salted Butter (melted); 3 large Free-range Eggs; 1 cup White Sugar (adjust to taste); 2 cups Milk (whole); 1/2 cup Cream; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (for filling and topping); 1 cup Icing Sugar (for dusting)

There’s something incredibly comforting about the blend of textures and flavors in a Milk Tart Ruffled Phyllo Pie. This delightful dessert combines the buttery crispness of phyllo pastry with a creamy, fragrant milk tart filling that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s an elegant yet approachable dish that can easily become the star of any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises to impress.

Why It’s My Go-To

This Milk Tart Ruffled Phyllo Pie is my go-to dessert for a multitude of occasions. It’s not only visually stunning but also offers a unique flavor profile that is both rich and light at the same time. The ruffled phyllo creates beautiful layers that contrast perfectly with the smooth filling, making it an ideal dessert for special celebrations or a cozy family dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase the versatility of phyllo pastry.

Ingredient Notes

Phyllo Pastry: You will need 78 sheets of phyllo pastry for that delightful ruffled texture.
Salted Butter: I recommend using Kerrygold for its rich flavor. Melted butter is essential for brushing between the layers of phyllo.
Free-range Eggs: Three large eggs help bind the filling together and provide richness.
White Sugar: This adds sweetness to the filling. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Milk: Using whole milk will give you a creamier texture.
Cream: A half-cup of cream elevates the filling to a luxurious level.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the cinnamon.
Cinnamon: Not only is it a key ingredient in the filling, but a sprinkle on top adds visual appeal and a hint of spice.
Icing Sugar: For dusting the finished pie, it adds a lovely touch of sweetness.

Toolbox for This Recipe

Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining the filling ingredients.
Brush: A pastry brush is necessary for applying melted butter to the phyllo layers.
9-inch Pie Dish: A sturdy dish to hold the ruffled pie together.
Oven: Preheat to ensure even baking.
Whisk: For beating the eggs and mixing the filling.

Make Milk Tart Ruffled Phyllo Pie Recipe: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Phyllo

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lay out your phyllo pastry sheets, keeping them covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. Melt the salted butter in a small saucepan and set it aside.

Step 2: Layer the Phyllo

In your pie dish, layer 25 sheets of phyllo pastry, brushing each sheet with melted butter before adding the next. Ensure the sheets are arranged in a way that creates ruffles and folds for a beautiful presentation. After the first 25 layers, press the phyllo gently into the dish to form the base.

Step 3: Create the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the three eggs and the white sugar until well combined. Gradually add the milk and cream, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon, ensuring everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Pour the creamy filling into the prepared phyllo crust. Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top, brushing each one with melted butter as before. Crumple the sheets slightly for a ruffled effect. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the phyllo is golden and crisp.

Step 5: Cool and Dust

Once baked, allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Before serving, dust the top with icing sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an elegant finish.

If You’re Out Of…

Phyllo Pastry: You can use puff pastry as an alternative, but the texture will be different.
Salted Butter: Unsalted butter works fine; just add a pinch of salt to your filling.
Milk: Almond milk or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
Cream: Coconut cream can provide a delicious dairy-free substitute.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

Don’t forget to keep the phyllo covered as you work. It dries out quickly!
Make sure to brush each layer generously with butter; this is key to achieving that crispy texture.
Be careful not to overbake; keep an eye on the pie to prevent burning the phyllo.
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to help the filling set up properly.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

The Milk Tart Ruffled Phyllo Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to make it in advance, you can prepare the pie without baking it and cover it tightly before refrigerating. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve!

Reader Q&A

Can I freeze the Milk Tart Ruffled Phyllo Pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have cinnamon?

If you’re out of cinnamon, nutmeg can be a lovely alternative, although it will change the flavor profile slightly. You could also try a combination of allspice or pumpkin spice for a different twist.

Can I use other fillings for this pie?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can fill the pie with lemon curd, chocolate ganache, or even a fruit filling. Just ensure that the filling has a similar consistency to the milk tart filling for best results.

How do I know when the filling is set?

The filling is set when it no longer jiggles in the center and has a slight golden color on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

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That’s a Wrap

This Milk Tart Ruffled Phyllo Pie Recipe is sure to captivate your family and friends alike. The combination of flaky pastry and creamy filling makes for a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a bit of patience and love, you can create a stunning pie that not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on your table. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress with this exquisite dessert!