Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey: A Deliciously Crispy Appetizer
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that blends savory and sweet flavors, look no further than these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey. This recipe combines the rich, creamy taste of feta cheese with the crispy crunch of phyllo pastry, all drizzled with a sweet and spicy chili honey sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a snack for movie night, or just want to impress your family with something new, these feta rolls will surely be a hit!
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Feta Rolls:
6 Sheets of Phyllo Pastry: Phyllo pastry is the perfect choice for creating light, crispy layers that form the base of these rolls. If you don’t have phyllo pastry, you could substitute it with spring roll wrappers, though the texture won’t be quite the same.
1 Cup Crumbled Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy, salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cream cheese and the sweetness of the chili honey sauce. Make sure the feta is crumbled for even distribution.
2 Tablespoons of Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds a smooth, rich texture that helps bind the filling together while also mellowing out the saltiness of the feta.
¼ Cup Olive Oil or Melted Butter: This will help crisp up the phyllo sheets during baking and give them a golden finish. You can use olive oil for a healthier option or melted butter for extra richness.
1 Teaspoon Fresh Thyme (Optional): Fresh thyme adds an herby aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the feta rolls. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme will work just as well.
Ingredients for the Chili Honey Sauce:
2 Tablespoons Honey: The natural sweetness of honey creates the perfect balance to the spicy chili sauce. It also adds a glossy finish when drizzled over the crispy feta rolls.
1 Teaspoon Chili Flakes: Adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more or less chili flakes. The combination of honey and chili gives the sauce a sweet-and-spicy kick that elevates the dish.
1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice: The acidity helps balance the sweetness of the honey and adds a touch of brightness to the sauce.
How to Make Oven Fried Feta Rolls:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your feta rolls bake evenly and become perfectly golden brown.
- Prepare the Feta Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, cream cheese, and fresh thyme (if using). Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy. You can use a fork to mash the feta and cream cheese together for a smoother texture.
- Assemble the Feta Rolls: Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean, flat surface. Brush the top with olive oil or melted butter using a pastry brush. Place a second sheet of phyllo pastry on top and brush again with olive oil or butter. Repeat this process until all 6 sheets are stacked on top of each other.
- Add the Filling: Spoon a portion of the feta mixture onto one edge of the phyllo stack. Carefully roll the phyllo around the filling to create a log shape, ensuring the edges are sealed tightly.
- Bake the Feta Rolls: Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam side down. Brush the tops of the rolls with more olive oil or butter to ensure they crisp up beautifully in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Chili Honey Sauce: While the feta rolls are baking, prepare the chili honey sauce by combining honey, chili flakes, and apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice) in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until the mixture is warmed through and slightly thickened. Adjust the seasoning to your taste—if you want more heat, add extra chili flakes.
- Serve and Drizzle: Once the feta rolls are out of the oven and crispy, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Drizzle with the chili honey sauce just before serving. The contrast of the warm, savory rolls with the sweet and spicy sauce is absolutely irresistible!
Tips for Perfect Oven Fried Feta Rolls:
Phyllo Pastry: If you’re working with phyllo pastry for the first time, make sure to keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth while assembling the rolls to prevent them from drying out. Phyllo can be quite delicate, so be gentle when handling it.
Filling Variations: Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can add spinach, caramelized onions, or even roasted red peppers to the feta mixture for extra flavor.
Make Ahead: These feta rolls can be made ahead of time! Assemble the rolls, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them. Just brush them with oil or butter right before baking.
Why You’ll Love These Oven Fried Feta Rolls:
Crispy and Light: The phyllo pastry provides a delicate crunch, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Savory and Sweet: The salty feta and creamy cheese filling pairs perfectly with the sweet heat of the chili honey sauce.
Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a light dinner. They’re also great for meal prepping or bringing to parties.
Easy to Make: With only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these feta rolls are simple to assemble yet look and taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts:
Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are the perfect balance of savory, creamy, crispy, and sweet. Whether you enjoy them as a light appetizer or a fun party snack, this recipe will be sure to impress your guests. The addition of the chili honey sauce brings an unexpected twist that elevates the dish, making it a unique and memorable treat.
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