These Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are the perfect bite-sized blend of creamy, crispy, savory, and sweet. Wrapped in golden layers of phyllo pastry, each roll is filled with a luscious mix of tangy feta and smooth ricotta, then baked until perfectly crisp. Finished with a drizzle of warm chili-infused honey, they bring bold Mediterranean flavor with an irresistible kick—ideal for appetizers, party platters, or a gourmet snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes the decadence of cheese-filled pastries and lightens it up with an oven-baked method, all while delivering a crave-worthy crunch. The chili honey glaze adds just the right touch of heat and sweetness to balance the creamy filling and flaky phyllo. Simple to assemble and quick to bake, these rolls are elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for a weeknight starter.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Rolls:
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 6 sheets phyllo pastry, halved lengthwise (12 strips total)
- ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil
For the Chili Honey:
- ¼ cup honey
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Directions
- Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. - Mix the Filling:
In a bowl, mix the crumbled feta and ricotta until well combined. Stir in fresh thyme if using. The filling should be creamy but hold its shape. - Assemble the Rolls:
Lay one strip of phyllo on a clean work surface. Keep the remaining phyllo covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
Brush the strip lightly with melted butter or olive oil.
Place about 1 tablespoon of cheese filling near one end of the strip.
Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the filled end to form a compact log.
Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Repeat with the remaining phyllo and filling. - Bake:
Once all rolls are assembled, brush the tops with additional butter or oil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. - Make the Chili Honey:
While the rolls are baking, warm the honey and chili flakes in a small saucepan over low heat for 1–2 minutes. Do not boil.
Remove from heat and set aside. - Serve:
Let the baked rolls cool for a few minutes.
Drizzle warm chili honey over the rolls or serve it on the side for dipping.
Garnish with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180 kcal
Variations
- Herbed Filling: Add chopped parsley, dill, or oregano to the cheese mixture for more herbal flavor.
- Spicy Filling: Mix a pinch of chili flakes directly into the cheese filling for extra heat.
- Sweet-Savory Twist: Add a touch of lemon zest or a drizzle of honey inside the filling for contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or walnuts over the cheese before rolling for added texture.
- Mini Triangles: Cut phyllo into smaller squares and fold into triangles instead of rolls.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes until crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the phyllo.
Freezing: Rolls can be assembled (unbaked) and frozen for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought chili honey?
Yes, store-bought chili-infused honey is a convenient alternative if you’re short on time.
Do I need to use both feta and ricotta?
The combination provides the perfect balance of tang and creaminess, but you can use just feta for a bolder flavor or just ricotta for a milder one.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is phyllo dough the same as puff pastry?
No. Phyllo is thinner and bakes into crisp, flaky layers. Puff pastry is richer and more buttery.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free phyllo dough, which is available in some specialty stores or online.
What other dipping sauces work well?
Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or a balsamic glaze also pair beautifully with the savory filling.
Do these rolls need to be served hot?
They are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Cottage cheese is a bit more watery. Drain well and blend for a smoother consistency if substituting.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil works perfectly and enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.
How do I keep the phyllo from drying out?
Work quickly and keep unused sheets covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel while assembling.
Conclusion
Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are an irresistible fusion of creamy cheese, crispy pastry, and sweet-spicy glaze. With their Mediterranean flair and approachable prep, these rolls make a fantastic starter or finger food for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a unique snack, these golden, flaky bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Print
Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey feature crispy phyllo pastry filled with creamy ricotta and tangy feta, baked until golden and drizzled with warm chili-infused honey. A perfect blend of savory, spicy, and sweet, these Mediterranean-inspired bites are ideal for entertaining or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
-
8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
-
1 cup ricotta cheese
-
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
-
6 sheets phyllo pastry, halved lengthwise (12 strips total)
-
1/4 cup melted butter or olive oil
For the Chili Honey:
-
1/4 cup honey
-
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
-
Preheat & Prep:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. -
Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine crumbled feta, ricotta, and thyme (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. -
Assemble the Rolls:
Place one phyllo strip on a flat surface. Brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil.
Spoon 1 tbsp of the cheese mixture near one end. Fold sides over and roll tightly into a log.
Place seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining phyllo and filling. -
Bake:
Brush the tops of the rolls with more butter or oil.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until crisp and golden brown. -
Make the Chili Honey:
In a small saucepan, gently warm honey and chili flakes over low heat for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat. -
Serve:
Let rolls cool slightly. Drizzle with chili honey or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh thyme or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
-
For a twist, add chopped spinach or roasted red pepper to the filling.
-
Best served warm but can be reheated in the oven for crispiness.
-
Substitute agave or maple syrup for a vegan version (with vegan phyllo and cheese).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
