Bougatsa (Filo Pastry with Custard or Cheese)

Bougatsa, a rich and decadent Greek pastry, features layers of crispy filo dough enveloping a creamy custard or tangy cheese filling. It's a delightful treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process of creating this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Bougatsa has a rich and storied history, dating back to the Byzantine Empire. It is believed to have originated as a simple custard pie that was wrapped in filo dough to preserve it. Over time, the recipe evolved and variations emerged, with some regions preferring a sweet custard filling and others opting for a savory cheese filling. Today, bougatsa is a beloved street food and a staple in Greek bakeries worldwide.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 35 | Serves: 6

Ingredients

• Filo pastry
• Butter
• Milk
• Eggs
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Feta cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Brush a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted butter.
4. Lay a sheet of filo pastry in the prepared baking dish and brush with melted butter.
5. Repeat with 5 more sheets of filo pastry.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
7. Pour the custard mixture over the filo pastry.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the custard is set.

Why It Works

• The combination of crispy filo dough and creamy custard or cheese filling creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
• The generous amount of butter brushed between the layers of filo dough ensures that the pastry bakes up golden brown and flaky.
• The custard filling is made with a mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract, resulting in a rich and velvety texture.
• The addition of cinnamon adds a warm and aromatic touch to the custard, complementing the sweetness and richness.