There is nothing quite like the irresistible combination of creamy cheese wrapped in crispy phyllo dough, especially when drizzled with a spicy-sweet glaze. This Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe brings all those flavors and textures together in a way that’s simply delightful. It’s an appetizer that will steal the show at any gathering or elevate your weeknight snack game with minimal fuss but maximum wow. Trust me, once you try these golden, crunchy rolls with their perfect balance of heat and sweetness, they’ll quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in creating the texture, flavor, and visual appeal of these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe. The magic happens from the crisp, flaky phyllo to the punchy feta and that luscious chili honey drizzle.
- Phyllo dough: Provides a light, flaky crust that becomes beautifully golden and crisp when baked.
- Feta cheese: This small block brings a creamy, tangy center that contrasts perfectly with the crispy shell.
- Olive oil or melted butter: Brushing the phyllo adds richness and ensures a pretty golden finish.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the spicy heat.
- Chili flakes: Gives a gentle kick that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering the feta.
- Toasted sesame seeds: A nutty crunch sprinkled on top elevates the texture and appearance.
- Fresh mint leaves (optional): A refreshing garnish that adds a pop of color and a hint of bright freshness.
How to Make Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step sets the stage for perfect, non-stick rolls that cook evenly.
Step 2: Handle the Phyllo with Care
Once your phyllo dough is thawed, gently unroll it and cover it with a slightly damp towel. This keeps it flexible and prevents drying out, which makes it much easier to work with.
Step 3: Layer and Brush the Phyllo Sheets
Take one sheet of phyllo and brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Then layer a second sheet on top and brush again. This double layer ensures your rolls are sturdy, flaky, and golden-crisp.
Step 4: Cut the Dough Into Strips
Cut the stacked, brushed sheets into thirds lengthwise. These strips will be the perfect size for rolling up your feta blocks.
Step 5: Assemble the Rolls
Place a small block of feta at the end of each strip. Roll the dough tightly around the cheese, folding in the sides to seal the roll. This keeps the cheese snug inside and prevents any leaks while baking.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Place the rolls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with more olive oil or butter and sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds. This adds both flavor and beautiful golden color.
Step 7: Bake Until Crisp and Golden
Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are crisp and golden brown, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
Step 8: Create the Chili Honey Drizzle
While the rolls are baking, gently warm the honey and chili flakes in a small saucepan over low heat for about 5 minutes. This infuses the honey with just the right amount of heat. Let it cool slightly before drizzling.
Step 9: Add the Finishing Touches
Drizzle the warm chili honey over the hot rolls straight from the oven. If you like, garnish with fresh mint leaves to add a burst of color and a refreshing lift.
Step 10: Serve Immediately
These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe are best enjoyed warm and crispy. Serve them fresh to savor the contrast of textures and flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh mint leaves aren’t just for looks; their cooling aroma and taste provide a wonderful balance to the spicy honey. You can also try finely chopped pistachios or a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds for extra crunch and nutty depth.
Side Dishes
These rolls make a fantastic appetizer alongside a crisp green salad or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. For a heartier spread, pair them with Mediterranean staples like hummus, olives, or roasted vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these rolls on a beautiful wooden board drizzled with extra chili honey and a scattering of mint leaves and sesame seeds. For a dinner party, offer small dipping bowls of remaining chili honey on the side so guests can add more heat as they please.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If any rolls survive the feast, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the chili honey separate to drizzle fresh upon reheating to maintain that vibrant flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked rolls before baking. Just assemble, arrange on a tray to flash freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect crispness.
Reheating
To bring back their crispiness, reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the phyllo soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Feta’s tangy, salty flavor pairs perfectly with the chili honey, but you can experiment with halloumi or goat cheese for a different texture and taste. Just ensure the cheese can hold its shape when baked.
How spicy is the chili honey drizzle?
The heat level is mild and warming, thanks to the chili flakes. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste, adding more for extra kick or less for a subtler spice.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
Phyllo dough itself is often vegan, but you’d need to replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use olive oil instead of butter to make a vegan-friendly version. The chili honey can be swapped with a mix of agave and chili flakes.
Is olive oil better than butter for brushing phyllo?
Both work great; olive oil adds a slightly fruity note and is lighter, while butter gives a richer, more decadent flavor. Use whatever you prefer or have on hand.
Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the rolls, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. This makes them a perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties.
Final Thoughts
This Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe is one of those rare treats that feels luxurious yet comes together effortlessly. They combine crispy, creamy, spicy, and sweet elements all in one bite. Whether for a casual snack or special occasion, these rolls will impress everyone lucky enough to try them. I can’t wait for you to make them and see how quickly they disappear from your table!
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Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 rolls (serves 3–4)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a delightful appetizer featuring crispy phyllo dough wrapped around creamy feta cheese, baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a sweet and spicy chili honey glaze. Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a savory snack, they combine crunchy texture with rich, tangy, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Phyllo Dough and Filling
- 12 sheets phyllo dough (2 sheets per roll x 6 rolls)
- 6 small blocks feta cheese (1 block per roll, about 1 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing, approximately 1 tablespoon per 2 phyllo sheets plus extra for topping)
Chili Honey Sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Phyllo Dough: Gently unroll the thawed phyllo dough sheets and cover them with a slightly damp towel to keep them from drying out while you work.
- Brush and Layer Phyllo: Take one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Place a second sheet on top and brush it as well, creating a layered base for your roll.
- Cut Phyllo Sheets: Cut the two-layered phyllo stack into thirds lengthwise, making strips approximately the width needed to wrap the feta blocks securely.
- Assemble Rolls: Place a small block of feta cheese at the end of each strip. Roll tightly, folding in the sides as you go to seal the cheese inside the phyllo dough.
- Arrange and Brush Rolls: Position the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over each roll for texture and flavor.
- Bake Rolls: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until they are crisp, golden, and flaky.
- Prepare Chili Honey Sauce: While the rolls bake, combine honey and chili flakes in a small saucepan over low heat. Warm gently for about 5 minutes to infuse the flavors. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before use.
- Drizzle Sauce and Garnish: Once the rolls are baked, drizzle the warm chili honey evenly on top. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired to add freshness and a pop of color.
- Serve: Serve these oven fried feta rolls immediately while they’re warm and delightfully crispy for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Phyllo dough is delicate and dries out quickly; keep it covered with a damp towel while working.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes in the honey to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- These rolls are best served fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness.
- You can substitute toasted sesame seeds with nigella seeds or poppy seeds if preferred.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute feta with a vegan cheese alternative.
