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Top-down view of Albanian Baked Feta with honey, sesame seeds, and fresh thyme in a white dish.

Albanian Baked Feta with Honey and Sesame Seeds

A stunning 20-minute Mediterranean appetizer that balances salty feta cheese with sweet caramelized honey and nutty toasted sesame seeds. Inspired by traditional Albanian coastal cuisine, this warm, creamy dish is the ultimate quick mezze for entertaining.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Mezze, Side Dish
Cuisine: Albanian, Greek, Turkish
Calories: 245
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 block approx. 200–250g of feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons of honey
  • 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds mixed white and black
  • 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme

Method
 

  1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Drain the feta and pat it dry with paper towels.
  2. Arrange: Place the feta block (or slices) into a small oven-safe baking dish.
  3. Season: Drizzle the olive oil and honey evenly over the cheese. Sprinkle the sesame seeds and thyme leaves on top.
  4. Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes. Optional: Broil for the final minute for extra caramelization.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm with bread.

Notes

  • The Feta Rule: Never use crumbled feta; it will not achieve the creamy, spreadable texture required for this dish.
  • Watch the Broiler: Honey has a high sugar content and can go from caramelized to burnt in seconds. Stay by the oven during the final minute!
  • Serving Suggestion: Pair this with warm pita or crusty sourdough to scoop up the warm cheese and honey.