Bougatsa Recipe

Learn how to make authentic Bougatsa, a beloved Greek dessert featuring layers of crispy, buttery filo pastry filled with rich, creamy custard. This easy-to-follow recipe brings the flavors of Greece to your kitchen with simple ingredients like semolina, milk, and vanilla. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special treat, Bougatsa is dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon for a classic finish. Impress your family and friends with this traditional Greek pastry that’s golden, flaky, and irresistibly delicious!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 large eggs, whisked
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1¾ cups milk
• ¼ cup fine semolina
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pastry:

• 7 sheets filo pastry (about ⅓ of a standard package)
• ½ cup butter, melted

For Topping:

• Icing sugar, for dusting
• Ground cinnamon, for dusting

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Custard Filling:

1. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and set them aside.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup butter and stir in the sugar.
3. Add the milk, semolina, and vanilla extract. Reduce the heat to medium-low and whisk continuously until the milk is heated but not boiling.
4. Slowly pour in the whisked eggs, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a creamy custard, about 4–5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and allow the custard to cool.

2. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Generously grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with melted butter.

3. Assemble the Bougatsa:

1. Lay one sheet of filo in the baking dish, letting the edges hang over the sides. Brush with melted butter.
2. Repeat this process with four more filo sheets, brushing each layer with butter.
3. Pour the cooled custard into the baking dish and smooth it evenly.
4. Fold the overhanging filo edges over the custard to enclose it. Brush the folded edges with butter.
5. Layer two more filo sheets on top, scrunching them slightly for texture. Brush each layer generously with butter.

4. Bake:

1. Bake the bougatsa in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the filo is golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:

1. Allow the bougatsa to cool for 10 minutes.
2. Dust generously with icing sugar and cinnamon. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve warm or at room temperature.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Greek Delight: A classic dessert that brings the flavors of Greece to your table.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, yet tastes luxurious.
• Perfect Texture: Crispy, buttery filo layers paired with a creamy custard filling.
• Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, dessert, or a coffee-time snack.

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Tips

• Keep the filo pastry covered with a damp towel while assembling to prevent it from drying out.
• Whisk continuously when adding the eggs to the custard to avoid scrambling.
• Allow the custard to cool completely before pouring it into the filo layers for easier assembly.
• For a crispier top, brush the filo generously with butter before baking.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Bougatsa: Replace the custard filling with a mixture of feta and ricotta for a savory version.
• Orange Zest Addition: Add a touch of grated orange zest to the custard for a citrus twist.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and egg replacer for a vegan-friendly treat.
• Larger Batch: Double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan to serve a crowd.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make Bougatsa ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the custard and assemble the filo layers a few hours ahead, then bake when ready to serve.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover bougatsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crisp texture.

Q: Can I freeze Bougatsa?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the fully assembled (but unbaked) bougatsa. When ready to serve, bake from frozen at 350°F, adding a few extra minutes.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve warm with a dusting of icing sugar and cinnamon.
• Pair with Greek coffee or a hot cup of tea for an authentic experience.
• For a luxurious touch, drizzle honey over the bougatsa before serving.
• Enjoy as a dessert or a morning treat alongside fresh fruit.

Indulge in the flaky, creamy perfection of homemade Bougatsa, a true Greek classic!