Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey

Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor, these Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a showstopper for any gathering. Imagine biting into a delicate phyllo pastry roll, its flaky exterior giving way to a creamy, tangy filling of feta and ricotta, kissed with the subtle earthiness of thyme. Then, as if that wasn’t delightful enough, it’s topped with a warm drizzle of sweet honey infused with a spicy chili kick. These little rolls strike the perfect balance between savory and sweet, with just the right amount of heat to keep your taste buds intrigued. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a unique appetizer, these rolls promise to impress.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create an elegant dish that tastes like something straight out of a gourmet kitchen. The phyllo pastry adds a satisfying crunch, while the creamy cheese filling melts in your mouth. The chili honey is the crowning touch, elevating the rolls with a sophisticated yet approachable twist. And the best part? They’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy these treats with a little less guilt while still relishing their irresistible crispiness.

These Oven-Fried Feta Rolls are more than just an appetizer—they’re a conversation starter. Serve them at your next dinner party, holiday celebration, or even as a snack for family movie night. Pair them with a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time. With their bold flavors and beautiful presentation, they’re destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make these little bites of heaven!

Ingredients

For the Rolls:

• 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled: Choose high-quality feta for a bold, tangy flavor.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and balances the feta’s saltiness.
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional): Provides a hint of earthy freshness.
• 6 sheets phyllo pastry: Thawed if frozen, and cut in half lengthwise to create 12 smaller sheets.
• ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil: Use for brushing the phyllo, creating a golden, crispy texture.

For the Chili Honey:

• ¼ cup honey: Opt for a light, runny honey for easy drizzling.
• ½ tsp red chili flakes: Adjust to taste for a milder or spicier kick.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, ricotta cheese, and thyme leaves (if using).
2. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth, ensuring the feta and ricotta are evenly distributed. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Phyllo Pastry

1. Unroll the phyllo pastry sheets and keep them covered with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out.
2. Cut each sheet in half lengthwise to create 12 strips.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place one strip of phyllo pastry on a clean work surface. Lightly brush it with melted butter or olive oil using a pastry brush.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling near one end of the phyllo.
4. Fold the sides of the pastry inward, then roll it up tightly to form a neat roll.
5. Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo and filling.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls

1. Arrange the rolls on the baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between them.
2. Brush the tops with more melted butter or oil for a golden finish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Make the Chili Honey

1. While the rolls are baking, warm the ¼ cup of honey in a small saucepan over low heat.
2. Stir in the ½ tsp of red chili flakes and let the mixture warm for 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Once the rolls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Drizzle the warm chili honey over the rolls or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish with extra thyme leaves, if desired, for a touch of color and flavor.

ro Tips

• Handling Phyllo: Phyllo pastry dries out quickly, so keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel while assembling the rolls.
  • Q: Can I skip brushing the phyllo with butter or oil?
    A: Brushing is essential to achieve that crispy, golden texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use a cooking spray instead.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes in the honey to suit your spice tolerance.
  • Q: I don’t like spicy food. Can I skip the chili flakes?
    A: Absolutely! You can omit the chili flakes and still enjoy the sweet honey drizzle. Alternatively, add a pinch of smoked paprika for flavor without heat.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls a few hours before baking. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
  • Q: Can I freeze the rolls for later?
    A: Yes, you can freeze unbaked rolls. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect For

Cocktail parties, holiday gatherings, or a simple indulgent snack, these crispy feta rolls with chili honey are guaranteed to impress.

• Q: What should I serve with these rolls?
  A: They pair wonderfully with a light salad, a charcuterie board, or a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade.
• Q: Can I make these vegan?
  A: Yes! Replace feta and ricotta with vegan cheese alternatives and brush the phyllo with olive oil instead of butter. For the chili honey, use agave syrup as a substitute.

Try them today, and let these rolls become the star of your appetizer spread!