Phyllo - even the name sounds fluffy and delicately delicious. The name means "leaf" in Greek because of this unleavened dough's thin texture.

It's one of my favorite doughs to work with because I'm always guaranteed a light and fluffy texture with just the right amount of flaky and crispy to make any pastry, pie, or layered dish melt in your mouth fabulous!

While frozen phyllo is readily available, I prefer making my own whenever I can. It's not that difficult and there are only a few pantry staples like flour, oil, and water.

The trick is in the rolling and stretching. When making my own, I have to clear off the big table because making this flat dough takes a lot of room. If you've got a large marble top, that's even better, so the dough won't stick.

Now, you may be thinking there's not much you can do with this delightful dough other than a basic baklava or spanakopita; but nothing could be farther from that thought.

Over the years, my love of phyllo has led to quite a collection of recipes spanning the Mediterranean and beyond. I've listed them here for everyone to enjoy.

From not so basic baklava recipes for everyone to appetizers, dessert phyllo dough recipes, breakfast phyllo dough recipes, and fillings so yummy you'll never want to use pie crust again!

Sweet Phyllo Dough Recipes

1.Baklawa

This tasty Lebanese version of baklava is one of the premier sweet treats in the country. Made with fresh or frozen phyllo, clarified butter (ghee), sugar-coated walnuts, and topped with a rose water syrup, this layered delight is the perfect ending to any dinner.

There's about 45 minutes of prep involved in this vegetarian dessert, but it's not hard to make.

The key is to make sure your dough is thawed (if using frozen) or it will fall apart. Be sure to buy food grade rose water for the syrup you'll use after the baklawa is baked and cooked.

The result will be a delectable combination of flaky, crunchy sweetness, with a hint of citrus.

2. Baklava Cheesecake

If you love the flakiness of baklava and the creaminess of cheesecake, then this dessert is for you. It's not only mouth-watering and delicious, it's a beautiful feast for the eyes as well!

Add to that hints of nuts and floral, with a rich honey syrup. It will definitely be requested time and time again. The best part for you is - it's easy and takes only 10 minutes to prep.

Rather than the traditional graham cracker crust, you're using - you guessed it - phyllo crust. This will give the cake an even smoother texture and allow the cheese part to take center stage without being overpowered by crust.

It will take about 50 minutes to bake, and you'll need to let it chill for about 4 hours before serving. This is the perfect dessert for holidays and family get-togethers.

3.Nutella Baklava

Does your family go nuts for Nutella? If yes, then this semi-homemade treat is a must-try!

The beautiful presentation of this dessert will have everyone looking for the fancy Greek bakery box! With layers of phyllo dough, Nutella spread, pecans, and honey, the bountiful yield of 20 servings looks like the tastiest of caramel-colored brownies.

It takes about forty minutes of prep and patience, but it's not hard to do. Mention Nutella, and you're sure to have plenty of volunteers to help! This is a great dessert to take where there's a wide age range.

Everyone from kids to grandparents will love it!

4.Air Fryer Baklava

If you've never tried an air fryer dessert, this baklava with rich salted caramel drizzle is the place to start.

Using the air fryer will ensure that the pastry cooks evenly, but won't dry out. It also gives you the option to make smaller portions if you're on your own.

This baklava calls for a unique mix of almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios, along with ghee and honey that will give the baklava extra layers of flavor.

It can easily be made vegan, and using the air fryer won't heat up the kitchen and keep the mess to a minimum!

5.Chocolate Hazelnut Baklava Rolls

If you prefer your baklava in finger food form, these chocolate hazelnut rolls are perfect!

With the appearance of the best homemade egg roll, these hand held desserts are filled with hazelnut spread, pistachios, hazelnuts, and are topped with a sweet orange syrup.

The combination of creamy chocolate and citrusy orange is sure to please everyone.

The whole process takes a scant 30 minutes from prep to table. This super easy version of a classic Mediterranean recipe is great for anytime from midweek desserts to holiday office parties.

This is a great recipe to try if you've never worked with phyllo dough before.

6.Custard Pie w/ Phyllo and Ground Cinnamon

This heartwarming pastry is a classic Greek dessert, second only to the iconic baklava. Known as bougatsa (nougat) pie, it's made from a delicious creamy custard and layers of golden brown phyllo.

The key to this recipe is to use good quality, fresh butter to brush on the dough. This ensures it stays moist (which is a major must for all phyllo recipes), and it will help achieve the crispy texture along with the luminous golden color.

The toppings of iced sugar and cinnamon make it an even sweeter looking presentation.

Prep takes about 35 minutes, but most of that is carefully boiling the custard. Bake the pie for 45 minutes, and you'll have a dessert that nobody will be able to resist.

7.Kolokithopia - Greek Pumpkin Pie

If you want the look of an old-fashioned quilt cut pie, like the kind grandma used to cool on her window sill, but with a tasty twist, this recipe won't disappoint.

This one uses layers of phyllo dough rather than traditional pie crust, which makes all the ingredients sort of meld into one decadent mouthful.

You'll use fresh shredded pumpkin, rice, currants, castor sugar, cinnamon, and cloves for a spicy and unique flavored filling. Be sure to squeeze the excessive water from the pumpkin after grating.

The pie takes about 35 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake. It goes great with a strong cup of coffee after dinner or for breakfast the next morning.

8.Muakacha - Phyllo Crinkle Dessert

If you're looking for a sumptuous treat that's sure to wow guests, this crinkled phyllo dessert is sure to take center stage.

It's truly a gorgeous dessert that resembles something you'd find in nature with its unique accordion formation, crisp golden brown color, and sprinkled nut topping.

The taste is a fabulous combination of creamy and crunchy with ingredients like milk, honey, cinnamon, and pistachios.

This is a great desert if you've become a phyllo dough expert and are looking for a challenge. It needs to be baked in three stages, so patience will be needed, but the taste and beautiful appearance are well worth it.

9.Phyllo Custard Pie

This rich and creamy custard pie is a mainstay in the world of Greek cuisine. Called “galaktoboureko", the delicious vanilla filling is encased in layers of golden brown phyllo.

The key to the crispy texture is to slather the dough in butter. It's so important that the name is derived from the Greek word "galaktos'' meaning butter made from sheep and cows' milk. Feel free to use regular butter though.

After assembling the custard in the dough, you'll top things off with a fragrant lemon honey syrup that makes for the perfect sweet treat. The process is easy, but the three-step prep will take about an hour.

It's a terrific way to greet guests who pop over for dessert and coffee or to take for a family gathering.

10.Phyllo Napoleons with Strawberries and Lemon Vanilla Cream

This gorgeous twist on traditional Napoleon's makes them almost too pretty to eat, but you won't be able to resist the flaky layers of phyllo dough, bright vanilla bean cream with a hint of lemon, and fresh strawberries.

Add to that a tangy rhubarb syrup and the flavor combination is second to none.

After baking your phyllon sheets, use a pastry bag to pipe the cream on to make the beautiful silky ribbons.

Top with the fresh rhubarb syrup, strawberries, and some coconut for the perfect dessert. Rhubarb and strawberries are in season during the summer, so it's great to bring them along to a barbecue or picnic.

11.Blackberry Ruffled Milk Pie

Peak blueberry season is typically July and August, so you'll want to keep this unique take on blueberry pie on hand for those warm weather months.

This sweet and fruity pie uses spiraled phyllo to give it its unique appearance, sort of like a Jenga puzzle.

Made with wholesome ingredients like milk, sugar, and vanilla, the exquisite flavor will have tastebuds fluttering.

The prep is as laid back as summer because you're not layering but gently squishing the rolled up dough pieces next to each other. It takes only 20 minutes to put together and 45 minutes to bake.

Savory Phyllo Dough Recipes

1.Spanakopita

Spanakopita!

If you know-you know! If you don't do yourself a favor and find out about this classic Greek spinach pie.

Made with phyllo dough, feta cheese, spinach, garlic, nutmeg, dill, onions, and eggs, its sweet and earthy flavors are perfect for any time of day.

Its creamy and crunchy combination is a great way to get kids to eat iron-rich spinach as well.

You'll love that this decadent recipe takes only 30 minutes to prep and 60 minutes to bake. Be sure to use a mature feta cheese as it will make it easier to spread on the delicate dough.

2. Traditional Tiropita

If you're a cheese danish fan or just cheese in general, you're going to love this cheese and phyllo pie that resembles cheesecake with a golden toasted top.

This recipe calls for the rich and flavorful cheeses of feta, Gouda, and ricotta to be mixed with heavy cream and wrapped into triangular layers of phyllo.

Don't let their simple appearance fool you, you're in for a treat from the very first bite. The creamy, juicy cheese combines with each one's unique flavor to make the perfect anytime pastry.

3.Phyllo Meat Pie

Also known as Egyptian Goulash, these spicy meat pies are easy to make and take only 25 minutes.

It's a tasty alternative to Monday night meatloaf and cooks in less time! Simply make your meat mixture with ground beef, onion, garlic, and baharat (a spice blend).

Then add it to a pan with layers of phyllo and top it off with 4-5 more layers of dough.

Be sure to brush each dough layer with olive oil for a crispy brown finish.

4.Greek Zucchini Pie

Wondering what to do with that summer garden bounty of zucchini? This refreshing and filling pie can take some of them off your hands in the most delicious way possible.

It's similar to spanakopita but is a tad less bold. Feta and ricotta make it creamy, while dill and mint give it an earthy fresh flavor.

Topping it with black and sesame seeds adds to the flavor and gives freshly baked bagel vibes. This one's great for a summer brunch or part of a light dinner.

5.Agginaropita Me Prassa (Artichoke and Leek Galette)

What is a galeate you might ask? Basically, it's a fancy name for a pie with a partially uncovered top. Rather than cut off the excess phyllo from the bottom of the pan, you just fold it over the filling before baking.

The ingredients of fresh artichoke, leeks, blue cheese, and white wine are mixed with earthy herbs like parsley and dill to make an upscale-looking brunch or dinner dish that's sure to impress even the most anti-artichoke folks in the crowd!

Prep takes about an hour, so it makes a great weekend endeavor.

6.Roasted Vegetable Tart with Phyllo Dough

This lovely tart looks like a colorful basket of fresh veggies straight from the garden. This vegetarian delight is loaded with zucchini, eggplant, red bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes.

Add in some garlic and thyme to bring out the natural flavors, and you've got a great dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It's so easy to make - it's certain to become a regular on your summer rotation.

Just chop and bake your veggies then transfer them to a baking dish with several layers of phyllo. Finish it with some butter and tomato sauce and bake.

In 25 minutes you and the gang will be ready to dive into this healthy treat!

7.Cheesy Phyllo Rolls

Warning!

These soft and gushy Greek style cheese sticks are going to be a hit, so keep the ingredients on hand at all times.

These say to make pastries take only 10 to 15 minutes to make and look like egg rolls, but flakier. These fun finger foods are bursting with feta, mozzarella, and cream cheese.

Add in your favorite herbs and some fresh pepper to give them an even more flavorful zing. Another great thing about these cheesy rolls is that you can make as many or as few as you want.

Make just a few for a personal snack or make a ton for holidays or teenage invasions.

8.Phyllo Meatball Cupcakes

You're going to want to double this easy recipe because you'll turn around, and they'll be gone! These adorable bite-sized apps are perfect for any party or movie night with the family.

Prep is only 20 minutes and consists of making your meatball mix, rolling up a piece of mozzarella in them and baking them inside a phyllo cup.

They're easily popped into a muffin tin to bake and are done in under an hour. Top each one off with a little marinara sauce hat for extra flavor and cuteness!

9.Moroccan Spiced Lamb Phyllo Triangles

These awesome triangular apps have so many great features, they're a must-try for any lamb-loving crowd. Mixing the minced lamb with harissa (a rich spicy spice), onion, and coriander brings a powerful punch of flavor that's slightly offset by the addition of sweet dates and yogurt.

As if the intense flavors weren't enough, they're super easy to make, take only about 20 minutes to prep, and 40 minutes to bake.

If you're not in the mood to fuss with a lot of phyllo but still want the flaky crust, these are perfect after a busy day. Toss them in a bowl and serve with a variety of dips.

10.Tomato and Feta Phyllo Tart

Juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy feta and ricotta cheese are nestled into layers of buttery phyllon to make this tasty tart great for brunch or lunch.

You can also be a vegetarian’s hero at the meat-filled summer barbecues with this dish in tow. It's easy to make, and you can add your favorite toppings like spinach, mushrooms, or olives for an even more layered flavor.

11.Melitzanopita Strifti: Eggplant Phyllo Spiral Eggplant

Impressive and unique are what best describes this phyllo, spiral swirl. Loaded with smooth eggplant, roasted red peppers, and feta cheese, this vegetarian pastry is a delicious addition to any springtime table.

The infusion of fresh garlic, mint, rosemary, and dill adds to the already flavorful mix. This easy-to-make beauty can be made ahead of time and can be frozen for up to two months for a quick mid-week meal.

Phyllo Dough Recipes With Apples

1.Apple Phyllo Pie

Do you love apple pie, but can do without the often heavy, fat-laden crust?

Well, here's a fluffy, phyllo dough version for your consideration. To add to the calorie cutting, this recipe calls for the phyllo sheets to be kept moist by brushing them with honey and water instead of butter.

Use Granny Smith apples if you can, along with brown sugar, cinnamon lemon, and nutmeg, which will give this pie a classic flavor.

As galettes do, some fruit will be left exposed but top it with some ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream for a sweet twist.

2.Apple Phyllo Strudel Rolls

These individual apple strudel rolls are as American as apple pie, but with a snappy Greek twist. Using phyllo allows you to make individual rolls that can be customized to everyone's preferences.

The filling is easily made in the skillet and walnuts and raisins are added to the mix before rolling up the dough. Before baking, poke some holes in the top to allow the steam to escape.

When finished, dust with some powdered sugar or make a simple honey and cinnamon syrup drizzle for even down home goodness.

3.Caramel Apple Phyllo Bites

These bite-size apple treats are a great alternative to candy or chips during that midday slump.

They also make a great addition to any breakfast table or party. You can use either phyllo cups or two inch squares of the dough placed into muffin tins.

The simple ingredients include fresh apples, Kraft caramel bites, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. They take only 20 minutes to whip up and 15 minutes to bake. They're a tasty vegetarian treat!

4.Phyllo Baked Apple Roses

You'll have everyone stunned by the beauty of these vegan treats. They're so adorable and delicate in their appearance, folks will think you went to culinary school on the sly.

All it takes is some thinly sliced apple pieces, strips of phyllo, cinnamon, maple syrup, mint leaves, and powdered sugar. In twenty minutes, you'll have a wholesome treat you can serve with pride.

The best part is, you can bake them in a toaster oven if you're in need of some extra baking space.

5.Homemade Apple Dumplings with Puff Pastry

These fresh dumplings are a treat for any apple lover. Made with crisp apples, sugar, cream, phyllo, and cinnamon, they look as amazing as they taste.

The best part is, they're so incredibly easy to make! The only real work is peeling and coring the apples.

Then just place the apple on a four-inch dough square and pour the cream through the core, sprinkle with the sugar and cinnamon and fold.

Brush with a little egg wash and let the oven do the rest! They take only 15 minutes to make and bake in about 35 minutes.

6.Phyllo Apple Galette

Galettes are beloved because they allow amateur bakers to focus on substance over style.

That's not to say galettes aren't beautiful, but your time is spent ensuring your ingredients are perfect rather than crimping, cutting, and fussing over the perfect crust.

Use a good quality pre-made phyllo dough and just fold the extra pieces over the delicious apple filling; it will look like a beautiful basket of fruit.

There's a few steps involved in the prep, so it takes about an hour, but they're not hard at all.

Bake for 20 minutes, and you've got a great pie for an occasion!

Breakfast Phyllo Dough Recipes

1.Spinach and Feta Cheese Borek

One look at this crispy, golden, flaky breakfast pastry is guaranteed to have mouths watering and put a pep in that morning step! Just sauté spinach and onions along with some herbs, spices and egg.

Then spoon the mixture onto a few layers of phyllo and top with a few more. The trick with this recipe is to brush the dough with yogurt, for a soft and creamy texture.

2.Mini Quiches with Phyllo Dough Crust

If your weekday mornings are hectic, you're going to love these easy-to-make, healthy mini quiches. They're full of protein and flavor and take only 20 minutes to prepare and another 20 to bake.

They can be made the night before and grabbed on the way out the door in the morning. The egg, sausage, and cheese can easily be substituted to make them vegan, and phyllo cups can be used to make them even easier to make!

3.Spinach Feta Phyllo Rolls

Do you need to feed a breakfast crowd on a budget?

These deliciously rich flavored rolls cost only $8 for thirty pieces. It is full of fresh spinach, gooey feta and Parmesan cheese, earthy garlic and onion.

They're sure to please everyone, from teenagers the morning after a sleepover to parents staying for the holidays.

The filling is easily made in the food processor and can be quickly rolled up in a few layers of light and fluffy phyllo.

4.Bacon and Eggs Phyllo Breakfast Pizza

Imagine everyone's delight when you proclaim that it's pizza for breakfast! You'll be celebrated all day long and have no guilt with this nutritious and delicious breakfast pizza.

The best part is, it takes less time to make than to drink that first cup of coffee. It's a colorful and fun way to start any morning.

The ingredients of phyllo, eggs, bacon, cheese, and tomatoes ensure the troops are prepared for the day ahead.

This recipe is also perfect for a brunch or casual get-together.

5.Greek Breakfast Phyllo Pie with Pasturma

If you're a meat lover, looking for something different from the traditional breakfast meats, this crispy phyllo pie is definitely up to the task. What makes it different from typical morning pies is the use of pasturma.

It's a cured beef that's heavily seasoned and sure to get you going first thing in the morning. There's also fluffy eggs, fresh veggies, cheese, and herbs layered in flaky phyllo to make for a filling and delicious meal.

6.Bananas Baked in Phyllo with Date Sweetened Chocolate Sauce

Do you love bananas or are just looking for a tasty meat-free breakfast that's sweet and satisfying?

This banana phyllo recipe checks all those boxes and more. These fruit pastries take only 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, but are so good-looking everyone will think you snuck out to the fancy bakery at 4 am!

Made with fresh bananas, walnuts, cinnamon, and fresh dates to sweeten the chocolate sauce, this vegetarian breakfast will be a winner with everyone.

Appetizers Phyllo Dough Recipes

1.Phyllo Fried Feta with Hot Honey

If you're on the lookout for a decadent, richly fried treat, this sweet and salty combination is the perfect solution.

It takes only 15 minutes to assemble and pan fry these feta cheese and phyllo delights. They're uniquely crispy outside and creamy inside.

As if that's not enough, add a fragrant syrup made of honey, red pepper flakes, and thyme for an anytime appetizer that will have everyone licking their chops.

Pro tip: the longer the honey steeps, the spicier it will become.

2.Tomato and Feta Phyllo Tart

This beautiful earthy tart is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Made with ripe cherry tomatoes (to make it extra sweet), feta, ricotta, onions, and bell pepper, it's a great alternative to a quiche.

Feel free to add your own toppings like mushrooms, olives, or spinach for some extra flavor.

3.Tunisian Brik Au Thon (Phyllo Stuffed with Potato, Tuna, and Egg)

There's something so comforting and satisfying that comes when you combine potato, tuna, and egg.

It's the perfect balance of filling flavors and protein to fill your belly while charging your battery, plus it's just downright delicious!

Now wrap them all up and bake them in a flaky phyllo dough with some earthy capers and lemon, and you've got a super easy lunch or light dinner fit for royalty and done in 20 minutes!

4.Goat Cheese Tartlets

These delightfully gooey tattlers are colorful and decorative enough for holiday parties and easy enough for weeknight snacks (they only take 10 minutes).

Fill pre-made phyllo cups with goat cheese, walnuts, thyme, and then top with some honey and your choice of colorful preserves like lemon, apricot, or orange.

Everyone will love the sweet and savory combination.

5. Mushroom and Goat Cheese Phyllo Bites

These crispy bite-size treats are bursting with earthy flavors of fresh mushrooms, garlic, and tangy goat's cheese.

They look like a fancy restaurant appetizer, but take only 15 minutes to prep and 5 minutes to bake, if you use pre-made phyllo.

Top them off with a balsamic reduction for extra flavor and a few chives for a touch of class!

6. Prawn and Dill Filo Cups

Do you need an upscale-looking appetizer for a dinner party or book club brunch but don't have a lot of time?

These prawn and dill filo cups will come to the rescue every time; in the tastiest of ways. Use pre-made cups for a quicker process. Ingredients other than fresh prawns and dill include pesto, rapeseed oil, egg, and cream.

Mix everything together and drop into the cup. The prawn will be placed last in the middle, giving the appearance of a lovely flower.

7.Mini Phyllo Taco Cups

Make Taco Tuesday fun again with these spicy phyllo taco cups. So simple that it takes less than 30 minutes from prep to table. Just brown your chopped meat and add taco seasoning.

Spoon the meat into phyllo cups (inside a muffin tin), add some cheese, and bake. Top them off with some salsa and cilantro and your set.

They're petite but pack a powerful punch of savory flavor. They're great for teen nights, movie nights, or weekend games.

8.Crab Phyllo Cups

You'll never fret over what to bring to an event again with these neatly packaged crab bites. They'll make themselves at home anywhere from a barbecue to an office party.

It's everything you'd find in a delicious crab dip, but there are no messy globs left on the table and no waiting in line for your turn at the dipping station. It's a super easy mix of crab, sour cream, cheese, and spices that is done in 5 minutes.

Transfer them to your phyllo cups and bake for 15 minutes.

Phyllo Dough Recipes With Chicken

1.BBQ Chicken Phyllo Flat Bread Pizza

Homemade pizza has never been so easy, soft, and full of flavor. It takes only 15 minutes to layer your phyllo and add diced chicken, red onion, cheese, savory barbecue sauce, and cilantro.

Pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes, and you've got a healthy lunch for the kids, a date night snack, or a light dinner.

2.Chicken Spinach and Feta Filo Panels

Imagine having the look and convenience of an egg roll, but having it burst with fresh earthy flavors that you can take anywhere! Well, you have it in these nifty phyllo panels - which are just layers of rolled phyllo, with delicious chicken, cheese, and spinach inside.

Add in some garlic, onion, and eggs to hold the mix together, and they're ready to go in the oven in about 5 minutes. So easy, fun, and tasty!

3.Buffalo Chicken Phyllo Rolls

At first glance, these rolls look like tasty but simple biscuits, but one bite tells you they're far from basic.

Loaded with shreds of chicken slathered in a buffalo sauce with a smattering of carrots, blue cheese, and pepperoncini, there's an entire meal inside those layers of crispy dough.

Only 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, these pockets are a yummy and more portable solution to sandwiches.

4.Chicken Spinach and Feta Phyllo Triangles

These fun triangles are similar to spanakopita, but with a twist.

Not only are they personal sized, the usual filling of spinach gets kicked up a notch with the addition of pine nuts for an even more earthy flavor.

The crispy dough will curl and brown to give the triangles a unique and classic appeal.

5.Chicken Phyllo Pie

Also known as Moroccan B'stiilla, this recipe is perfect for the spicy chicken lovers in your life.

It combines layers of crispy phyllo with juicy chicken thighs and an array of savory herbs and spices like parsley, tumeric, garlic, and saffron.

The result is an exquisite and exotic meal that you thought was only possible to get in the Mediterranean.

📖 Recipe