If you are looking for the perfect appetizer that bursts with flavor and texture, the Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe will quickly become your go-to delight. These golden, crispy phyllo rolls stuffed with a creamy blend of feta and ricotta cheese provide a savory bite that perfectly balances tangy, salty, and sweet heat. Drizzled with a luscious chili-infused honey, every mouthful is a dance of contrasting sensations that will impress guests or elevate any casual gathering. It’s approachable, indulgent, and downright addictive, making it a recipe you will be excited to share and enjoy again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of taste, contrasting textures, and vibrant colors. From the creamy cheeses to the crispy phyllo and the kick of chili honey, these ingredients come together effortlessly to create something truly special.
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled: Choose high-quality feta for a bold, tangy flavor that forms the backbone of the filling.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a smooth creaminess that balances the saltiness of the feta perfectly.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional): Provides a subtle, earthy freshness that brightens the filling.
- 6 sheets phyllo pastry: Thawed if frozen and cut in half lengthwise to create 12 thinner sheets for wrapping.
- ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil: Essential for brushing the phyllo, giving a golden and irresistible crunch when baked.
- ¼ cup honey: Opt for a light, runny honey for easy drizzling and a sweet contrast.
- ½ tsp red chili flakes: Adjust this to your preferred heat level, adding a spicy warmth to the honey drizzle.
How to Make Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining the crumbled feta and ricotta cheese in a medium bowl. If you love a hint of herbaceous depth, toss in the fresh thyme leaves now. Mix everything together until you get a smooth, evenly blended filling. This creamy mixture is the flavor hero for the rolls and sets the stage for that amazing salty and tangy bite you’re about to enjoy.
Step 2: Prep the Phyllo Pastry
Carefully unroll your phyllo sheets and cover them with a damp kitchen towel; this prevents drying out, which is key to them staying pliable. Cut each sheet in half lengthwise, giving you 12 manageable strips perfect for rolling. Trust me, this pre-step will save you frustration and make assembly a breeze.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay one phyllo strip on your workspace and lightly brush it with melted butter or olive oil to ensure crispness. Spoon about one tablespoon of the cheese mixture near one end of the strip. Fold in the sides gently, and then roll it up tightly but carefully. Place each roll seam-side down on the prepared sheet—this helps them stay sealed while baking. Keep going until all the rolls are assembled.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
Give the tops of your rolls another light brush of butter or olive oil for that beautiful golden finish. Bake them on the middle rack for 15 to 20 minutes or until they are perfectly golden brown and crispy. The inviting aroma themselves will have you eagerly waiting, and the crunch at the end is worth every second.
Step 5: Make the Chili Honey
While the rolls are in the oven, gently warm your honey over low heat in a small saucepan. Stir in the red chili flakes and allow the mixture to infuse for a couple of minutes. This simple addition transforms the honey, adding a subtle heat that beautifully contrasts the creamy cheese when drizzled over the finished rolls.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, give them a few minutes to cool slightly so you don’t burn your fingers or palate. Drizzle that warm chili honey generously over the top or serve it alongside for dipping. If you want to add a bit more flair, sprinkle extra fresh thyme leaves on top for color and a fragrant note that lifts the whole dish.
How to Serve Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh thyme leaves, lemon zest, or a handful of chopped fresh mint make wonderful garnishes here. They add a burst of color and an herbaceous lift that complements the rich, cheesy filling and spicy honey glaze.
Side Dishes
These rolls are versatile and pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple bowl of olives and charcuterie. You could also add some tangy Greek yogurt on the side to mellow the spice and add creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these rolls on a rustic wooden platter lined with parchment paper for an inviting look. You might also skew multiple rolls for easy grabbing at parties, or place them atop a bed of fresh greens for a stunning appetizer centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover oven fried feta rolls are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days, and you can still enjoy their crispy texture after reheating with care.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the rolls but do not bake them. Place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to one month. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 8 to 10 minutes to regain their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
While feta offers its signature tang and saltiness, you can experiment with other crumbly cheeses like goat cheese or a sharper ricotta salata. Just note that flavor and salt levels will vary.
How spicy is the chili honey? Can I adjust it?
The heat from the chili honey is mild to moderate and can easily be adjusted by adding less or more red chili flakes. If you prefer no spice, simply omit the chili flakes and enjoy the sweetness of honey with the cheese.
Is it necessary to use butter for brushing the phyllo?
Butter gives a richer flavor and a beautiful golden color, but olive oil is a fantastic alternative for a slightly lighter version. Either works well to achieve crispiness.
Can these rolls be made vegan?
You could try vegan cheeses and use olive oil instead of butter, but phyllo dough sometimes contains butter in its traditional recipes, so be sure to check the package if you need a fully vegan option.
What is the best way to serve these at a party?
Serve warm with the chili honey on the side for dipping. Arrange them on a platter with garnish, so guests can easily pick them up. Providing napkins is helpful, as these can be delightfully messy!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the combination of crispy phyllo, creamy cheese, and the sweet-spicy kick of chili honey in this Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss and maximum flavor, a dish that invites smiles and seconds. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe your own and share it with your favorite people!
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Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls (serves 12) 1x
Description
These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a delightful appetizer featuring crispy phyllo pastry filled with a creamy blend of tangy feta and smooth ricotta cheese. Baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a warm, spicy-sweet chili honey, these rolls offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors with an optional hint of fresh thyme.
Ingredients
Cheese Filling
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Phyllo Rolls
- 6 sheets phyllo pastry, thawed and cut in half lengthwise (12 strips)
- ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil
Chili Honey
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ tsp red chili flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, ricotta cheese, and fresh thyme leaves if using. Stir until smooth and well blended, ensuring an even distribution of flavors. Set the filling aside.
- Prep the Phyllo Pastry: Carefully unroll the phyllo sheets and keep them covered with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out. Cut each sheet in half lengthwise to form 12 long strips for rolling.
- Assemble the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take one phyllo strip and lightly brush it with melted butter or olive oil. Place about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling near one end, fold the sides inward, then roll tightly to form a neat roll. Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining strips and filling.
- Bake the Rolls: Brush the tops of all rolls with more melted butter or oil for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are crispy and golden brown.
- Make the Chili Honey: While the rolls bake, warm the honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the red chili flakes and let the mixture warm for 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove from heat.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the baked rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the warm chili honey over the rolls or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra thyme leaves if desired for added color and aroma.
Notes
- Thaw phyllo pastry properly and keep covered to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes in the honey to control the spice level.
- Use either melted butter or olive oil for brushing the phyllo depending on your preference for flavor and dietary needs.
- Serve these rolls warm for the best texture and flavor combination.
- Can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
