Apple Filled Crispy Milopitakia (Greek Phyllo Dough Mini Apple Pies)

Some desserts demand an occasion. Others? They create one. Milopitakia falls into the latter category and invites you to slow down and savor the moment. These Greek apple-filled treats boast of crunchy layers and a warm, spiced filling. The combination of caramelized apples, sweet raisins, and toasted walnuts wrapped in delicate phyllo dough makes for a great treat.

What is Milopitakia?

Milopitakia comes from Greece, a country that knows a thing or two about crafting mouthwatering desserts. The name itself is a giveaway, "milo" means apple, and "pitakia" refers to little pies. While its cousin, the full-sized Greek apple pie (milopita), is well-loved, these bite-sized versions are a favorite for their portability and snackable nature.

Apples have been a staple ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, and Greek grandmothers have long perfected the art of turning them into comforting sweets. You might also love the fact that some versions of milopitakia swap the raisins for dried figs or apricots, adding an extra layer of Mediterranean flair!

Pro Tips for the Best Milopitakia  

• Always soak the raisins. Soaking plumps them up and prevents them from drying out in the oven.
• Phyllo dries out quickly, so cover it with a damp towel while working.
• Don’t overfill your dough. Too much filling can lead to bursting or soggy dough.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Can I Freeze Milopitakia?  

You can freeze them before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble them and store them in a single layer, separated by parchment paper. When baking, add a few extra minutes to the baking time. If freezing after baking, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.

What Can I Use Instead of Walnuts?  

If walnuts aren’t your thing, try substituting with almonds, pecans, or even hazelnuts. Each will bring a unique flavor to the mix. You can also leave out the nuts altogether if you have allergies.

How Do I Keep Phyllo Dough from Breaking?  

Phyllo dough is delicate, but keeping it covered with a damp towel while you work will prevent it from drying out and cracking. Also, handle it gently and use a sharp knife when cutting.

Are Milopitakia Best Served Warm or Cold?  

While they taste great at any temperature, they’re best enjoyed slightly warm when the filling is soft and aromatic. Pair them with ice cream or Greek yogurt for an extra treat!

Can I Add Spices?  

Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom in the apple filling will elevate the flavor beautifully.

What Can I Serve with Milopitakia?  

They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Store Milopitakia

To store milopitakia, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days.  Avoid microwaving, as it can make the phyllo dough soggy.

How to Make Milopitakia

Step 1

Step 1

Place the raisins in a small bowl with water and set aside.

Place the raisins in a small bowl with water and set aside.

Step 2

Step 2

Cut your apples into small chunks and mix with lemon juice.

Cut your apples into small chunks and mix with lemon juice.

Step 3

Step 3

Melt butter in a pan, add apples and sugar, and cook until soft and caramelized.

Melt butter in a pan, add apples and sugar, and cook until soft and caramelized.

Step 4

Step 4

Transfer apples to a bowl, add raisins and walnuts, and combine.

Transfer apples to a bowl, add raisins and walnuts, and combine.

Step 5

Step 5

Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough, brush with butter, place a portion of the apple mixture on one side, and roll up.

Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough, brush with butter, place a portion of the apple mixture on one side, and roll up.

Step 6

Step 6

Place your rolls on a parchment-lined baking tray and brush with more butter.

Place your rolls on a parchment-lined baking tray and brush with more butter.

Step 7

Step 7

Bake your Milopitakia at 180°C (360°F) for 15 minutes.

Bake your Milopitakia at 180°C (360°F) for 15 minutes.

Step 8

Step 8

Let them cool slightly, dip with powdered sugar, and enjoy.

Let them cool slightly, dip with powdered sugar, and enjoy.