Bougatsa -- Cream Pie (Greece)

1. 1

   FOR THE CREAM: In a small saucepan bring milk & vanilla extract JUST to a boil.

2. 2

   In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat & then add the semolina, stirring for 1 minute.

3. 3

   Strain the milk over the semolina, stirring continuously. Add the sugar & continue stirring for 4-5 minutes, or until mixture is thickened, then remove from the heat & set aside to cool, stirring occasionally to prevent the formation of a skin on top.

4. 4

   In a small container, beat together the egg & 1 egg yolk, & when the milk mixture is cool, stir the eggs into the milk mixture.

5. 5

   Preheat oven to 400 degrees F & coat the inside of an 8-inch-square baking dish with a little butter.

6. 6

   Cut the sheets of filo to fit the baking dish & then lay 6 sheets into the baking dish, brushing the top side of each with melted butter.

7. 7

   Spread the cream filling over the pastry & cover with the remaining sheets, again brushing each sheet with butter. Keep the filo covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel at all times so it doesn't dry out.

8. 8

   Bake for about 25 minutes or until the pastry is crisp & golden, then remove from the oven & cut into 4 squares. Sprinkle each with powdered sugar & a little cinnamon & serve hot or warm.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.