Galaktoboureko
Veg
Crisp phyllo sheets encasing a semolina custard soaked in lemon-scented sugar syrup — Greece's most beloved pastry dessert.
Cuisines
Greek
Best for
Snacks
Dinner
Recipe
Prep: 20 min
Cook: 40 min
Total: 60 min
2-3 servings
Ingredients
| 1/2 cup | semolina |
| 1/4 cup | granulated sugar |
| 1 cup | whole milk |
| 1 cup | water |
| 1 tablespoon | unsalted butter |
| 1 teaspoon | vanilla extract |
| 2 | eggs |
Instructions
- 1 In a saucepan, combine semolina, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 cup milk, and 1 cup water over medium heat.
- 2 Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a custard, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3 Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon butter and vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
- 4 In a bowl, beat the eggs and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- 5 Gradually fold the egg mixture into the cooled custard.
- 6 Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 7 Brush a small baking dish with melted butter.
- 8 Layer 3 sheets of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing each with melted butter.
- 9 Pour the custard filling over the phyllo layers.
- 10 Cover with the remaining 3 sheets of phyllo, brushing each with melted butter.
- 11 Trim the excess phyllo and tuck the edges into the dish.
- 12 Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- 13 While baking, prepare the syrup by combining 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, lemon peel, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan.
- 14 Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- 15 Remove from heat and discard the lemon peel and cinnamon stick.
- 16 Once the galaktoboureko is baked, pour the hot syrup evenly over the pastry.
- 17 Let it cool before serving.
Tips
Ensure the syrup is hot when poured over the baked pastry for best absorption.