Golden Bakes: Mastering Phyllo Dough Pies and Pastries”

Ingredients

For the Pie:

• 1 package of phyllo dough (thawed if frozen)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup spinach, cooked and drained (optional for a savory version)
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Glaze:

• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for a sweet version)
• Pinch of salt (omit for sweet version)

Instructions

Preparing the Pie:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, feta cheese, spinach (if using), eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Grease a round baking dish or pie pan with olive oil or melted butter.
   • Place a sheet of phyllo dough in the pan, letting the edges hang over the sides. Brush the phyllo with olive oil or melted butter.
   • Continue layering phyllo sheets, brushing each with oil or butter, until you have about 6-8 layers.
   • Pour the cheese and spinach mixture over the phyllo layers.
   • Fold the overhanging phyllo sheets over the filling. Add a few more sheets of phyllo on top, brushing each with oil or butter, and tuck the edges into the sides of the pan.
4. Bake the Pie:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy.

Preparing the Creamy Glaze:

1. Mix the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract (if using), and salt until smooth.
2. Glaze the Pie:
   • Once the pie is baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the creamy glaze over the top.

Serving

• Sweet Version: If making a sweet pie, you can use ingredients like apples, nuts, and cinnamon instead of spinach and feta, and drizzle with the vanilla glaze.
• Savory Version: For a savory version, enjoy it warm with a side of salad or as a main dish.

This recipe allows for both sweet and savory variations, offering flexibility depending on your preference!