Save These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are my no-fail trick for pulling off a wow-worthy appetizer with minimal fuss and big flavor. Each roll is stuffed with tangy feta and creamy ricotta, wrapped in shatteringly crisp phyllo pastry, and crowned with a drizzle of spicy-sweet chili honey. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just want a snack that feels restaurant-fancy, you will find these rolls disappear fast.
They have turned every family get-together into an appetizer highlight. I was skeptical the first time I tried baking instead of frying, but my family barely left me any to taste.
Ingredients
- Feta cheese crumbled: Use authentic Greek feta for a pronounced tang and crumbly texture
- Ricotta cheese: Provides silkiness and prevents the filling from feeling dry Select whole milk ricotta for rich flavor
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional): Adds brightness and an herby note Look for sprigs with firm, green leaves
- Phyllo pastry sheets: Thawed and cut in half so each roll is light and layers up delicately Handle gently to avoid tearing and keep covered to prevent drying
- Melted butter or olive oil: Brushed over the pastry boosts flavor and ensures golden crispiness Go for European butter or robust extra virgin oil if possible
- Honey: Light and runny types are easiest for drizzling Raw honey brings more floral depth
- Red chili flakes: Use fresh chili flakes for a pronounced heat Choose quality spice for bold flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Combine the crumbled feta ricotta and thyme leaves if using in a mixing bowl Stir thoroughly until smooth so each bite has both cheeses evenly distributed
- Prep the Phyllo Pastry:
- Unroll the pastry and immediately cover with a damp towel to keep it pliable Cut each sheet in half lengthwise You should have twelve strips ready for rolling
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Place a strip of pastry on your work surface Use a pastry brush to coat lightly with melted butter or olive oil Spoon a tablespoon of cheese mixture near one end Fold the long edges inward then roll up tightly Like a mini burrito Seams should be underneath to secure the filling Continue until all rolls are formed
- Bake the Rolls:
- Arrange the rolls spaced out on a parchment lined baking sheet Brush more butter or oil liberally over their tops Slide them into the hot oven and bake for fifteen to twenty minutes Rolls should be golden brown and crisp on all sides
- Make the Chili Honey:
- While rolls bake gently warm honey in a small saucepan over low heat Stir in chili flakes and let them steep in the warm honey for one or two minutes until fragrant Take off the heat and set aside
- Finish and Serve:
- Pull rolls from the oven and let them sit just a few minutes for the filling to settle Drizzle with warm chili honey or serve it in a small bowl for dipping Sprinkle with extra fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and added aroma
Save Every family party I bring these to ends with someone begging for the recipe My favorite part is the ribbon of locally sourced honey with chili it packs just the right punch and never fails to spark conversation at my table
Storage Tips
After cooling pack rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate They will stay crispy for two days but are tastiest on day one To reheat bake in a hot oven for five minutes rather than microwaving which softens the pastry
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ricotta with goat cheese for a tangier filling or use cream cheese for super mild creaminess Oregano or dill can stand in for thyme if needed If you want more heat try chopped fresh chilies in the honey or stir in a pinch of cayenne for extra spice
Serving Suggestions
Pile these onto a platter with fresh herbs as a festive appetizer or pair them with a light salad for a bold lunch I even tuck leftovers into a lunchbox and they hold up remarkably well The chili honey is also delicious on roasted veggies
Save Enjoy these oven fried feta rolls straight from the oven for the best crunch and flavor. They'll make any gathering feel extra special.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with goat cheese or cream cheese for a different creamy flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent phyllo pastry from drying out?
Keep the phyllo sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel while assembling the rolls to keep them moist.
- → Can I adjust the chili honey to be milder?
Absolutely. Reduce the chili flakes for a gentler heat or add more for extra spice according to your preference.
- → What is the best way to get the rolls crispy?
Brush each phyllo sheet with butter or olive oil before rolling and again on top before baking for a golden, crisp texture.
- → Can I prepare the rolls in advance?
Yes, assemble the rolls and store them in the fridge until ready to bake for fresh, crispy results when needed.
- → What can I serve with these rolls?
These rolls pair well with fresh salads, a yogurt dip, or extra chili honey for dipping and sharing.