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Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey

Oven Fried Feta Rolls are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors. These golden, flaky rolls are packed with creamy feta cheese and baked to crispy perfection instead of deep-fried. Drizzled with homemade chili honey, they offer a delightful balance of salty, tangy, and sweet flavors.

Whether you’re looking for a delicious appetizer, an easy snack, or a unique addition to a dinner spread, this recipe is a must-try. In this guide, you’ll learn everything about making Oven Fried Feta Rolls, including key ingredients, preparation time, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, presentation ideas, creative variations, and FAQs.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

1. Feta Cheese

Feta is the star ingredient, providing a creamy, tangy, and slightly salty filling. It melts slightly but maintains its crumbly texture, making it perfect for stuffing inside crispy rolls.

2. Phyllo Dough

Phyllo dough creates a crispy, golden shell around the feta filling. It is light, flaky, and works well for oven-baking instead of deep-frying. Brushing the layers with olive oil or butter helps achieve the perfect crispness.

3. Olive Oil or Butter

Brushing the phyllo dough with olive oil or melted butter ensures it bakes to a golden brown color while adding richness to the flavor.

4. Honey

Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness that complements the saltiness of the feta. It also enhances the texture, making each bite more satisfying.

5. Chili Flakes

Chili flakes infuse the honey with a mild heat, balancing the sweetness and adding a spicy kick to the dish.

6. Sesame Seeds (Optional)

Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top of the rolls add a nutty crunch and enhance the overall flavor.

7. Lemon Zest (Optional)

A bit of fresh lemon zest brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the feta cheese.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Oven Fried Feta Rolls:

8 sheets of phyllo dough
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

For the Chili Honey:

¼ cup honey
½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Step-by-Step “Oven Fried Feta Rolls” Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Phyllo Dough

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface. Keep the rest covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
Brush the sheet lightly with olive oil or melted butter, then place another sheet on top. Repeat for a total of two layers.

Step 2: Fill and Roll

Place a small portion of crumbled feta cheese along one edge of the phyllo dough.
Season with black pepper and oregano for extra flavor.
Fold in the sides and begin rolling the phyllo dough tightly around the feta, similar to rolling a burrito.
Brush the edges with olive oil to seal the roll. Repeat with the remaining sheets.

Step 3: Bake the Rolls

Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down.
Brush the tops with more olive oil or butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Chili Honey

While the rolls bake, warm the honey in a small saucepan over low heat.
Stir in the chili flakes and lemon zest, allowing the flavors to infuse for a few minutes.
Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle them with the warm chili honey.
Serve immediately while crisp and hot.

Expert Tips

Work quickly with phyllo dough: It dries out fast, so keep it covered with a damp towel while assembling the rolls.
Brush with enough oil or butter: This ensures the rolls become crispy and golden brown.
Don’t overstuff the rolls: Too much feta can cause them to burst open while baking.
Use high-quality feta: Authentic Greek feta provides the best texture and flavor.
Let the rolls cool slightly before serving: This allows the flavors to settle and makes them easier to handle.

Presentation Tips

Arrange the rolls on a wooden board for a rustic, elegant look.
Drizzle the chili honey in a zigzag pattern over the rolls for a restaurant-style presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to add color.
Serve with extra chili honey on the side for dipping.

Creative Twists

1. Spicy Harissa Feta Rolls

Add a thin layer of harissa paste inside the rolls for extra heat and a smoky flavor.

2. Mediterranean Style

Mix feta with chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil for a Mediterranean twist.

3. Sweet and Savory Version

Replace chili flakes with cinnamon and chopped walnuts for a sweet variation.

4. Herbed Cheese Rolls

Mix feta with goat cheese, garlic, and fresh dill for a more complex flavor profile.

5. Crunchy Nut Coating

Roll the finished rolls in chopped pistachios or almonds before drizzling with honey for a nutty crunch.

Pro Tip for Customization

For a heartier version, wrap the feta rolls with a slice of prosciutto before rolling in phyllo dough. The prosciutto crisps up in the oven, adding a salty, smoky depth of flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make “Oven Fried Feta Rolls” ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze oven fried feta rolls?

Yes. Freeze unbaked rolls on a tray, then transfer them to a sealed container. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

4. Can I use puff pastry instead of phyllo dough?

Yes, but puff pastry will create a different texture. Adjust baking time to 20-25 minutes.

5. How spicy is the chili honey?

It has a mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili flakes.

6. What can I serve with these rolls?

They pair well with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a dipping sauce like tzatziki.

Conclusion

Oven Fried Feta Rolls with chili honey are a perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, salty, and sweet flavors. They are easy to prepare, packed with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, and ideal for any occasion. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try a creative twist, these rolls are sure to impress. Try them today and enjoy a bite of crispy, golden perfection!