The Best Milk Pie Recipe – A Creamy Delight for Every Occasion

Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Traditional Greek Milk Pie (Bougatsa Galaktoboureko Style)
Milk Pie pinit

Milk pie is a luscious, custard-filled dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite. This timeless treat combines a crisp, golden-brown crust with a velvety smooth milk-based filling, creating the perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this milk pie recipe is incredibly simple and rewarding to make.

Why You’ll Love This Milk Pie Recipe

  • Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
  • Silky and Creamy Texture – The smooth custard filling pairs beautifully with the flaky crust.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or an everyday indulgence, this milk pie always impresses.
  • Minimal Ingredients – No fancy or hard-to-find ingredients; everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
  • Mildly Sweet & Comforting – Unlike overly sugary desserts, this milk pie has a balanced sweetness that appeals to all palates.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Milk Pie

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 3-4 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling:

  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

How to Make Milk Pie?

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the chilled butter cubes and mix using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Mix in the egg yolk and gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball.
  4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a greased pie dish.
  6. Pre-bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until slightly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it’s hot but not boiling.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Slowly add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat, add butter, and stir until melted.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

  1. Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked crust.
  2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until the center is set but slightly wobbly.
  3. Let the pie cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Milk Pie

  • Chill the Dough – This ensures a flaky crust that holds up against the creamy filling.
  • Whisk Constantly – Stirring the custard while it cooks prevents lumps and ensures smoothness.
  • Use Full-Fat Milk – This contributes to the rich and creamy texture.
  • Don’t Overbake – The custard will continue to set as it cools, so remove it when it’s slightly jiggly in the cent

Time to Bake Your Dreamy Milk Pie!

Now that you have this easy and delicious milk pie recipe, it’s time to put on your apron and start baking! Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this classic dessert is bound to become a household favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations!

The Best Milk Pie Recipe – A Creamy Delight for Every Occasion

This creamy, custard-filled Milk Pie is a traditional Greek dessert made with layers of buttery phyllo dough and a rich, sweet semolina-based custard. Lightly scented with vanilla and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon, it's a comforting treat perfect for brunch or dessert. The pie is baked to golden perfection, offering a delightful contrast between the crispy top and the silky filling.

Milk Pie
Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 350  F Estimated Cost: $ 6 Calories: 350 Best Season: Spring

Ingredients

For the Crust:

For the Filling:

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the chilled butter cubes and mix using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Mix in the egg yolk and gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball.
  4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a greased pie dish.
  6. Pre-bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until slightly golden.
  7. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it’s hot but not boiling.
  8. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  9. Slowly add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  10. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until thickened.
  11. Remove from heat, add butter, and stir until melted.
  12. Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked crust.
  13. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until the center is set but slightly wobbly.
  14. Let the pie cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1


Amount Per Serving
Calories 320kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12g19%
Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 25g
Protein 6g12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I make milk pie ahead of time?

Yes! Milk pie tastes even better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a pre-made pie crust works just as well.

Why is my custard too runny?

If the custard isn’t thickening, it may need more cooking time. Be sure to stir continuously over low heat until it reaches the right consistency.

Can I add flavors to the custard?

Yes! Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.

Olivia Carter

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Olivia Carter is a passionate home chef with over 10 years of experience in crafting heartwarming, family-friendly meals. From hearty stews to homemade bread, she specializes in easy-to-follow, comforting recipes that bring people together. Olivia believes that good food should be simple, delicious, and made with love. When she’s not in the kitchen, she enjoys gardening and sourcing farm-fresh ingredients for her dishes.

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