Honey Feta Sweet Potato Rounds are the kind of appetizer that disappears fast at any table. Thin slices of roasted sweet potato turn golden and slightly crisp, then get topped with tangy feta, a drizzle of sweet honey, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The result is a sweet-salty bite that feels both rustic and elegant. This recipe is simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for holiday platters. If you’re looking for a quick crowd-pleaser, this dish delivers in every way.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Honey Feta Sweet Potato Rounds
- Quick and easy: Sliced, seasoned, roasted, and topped in under an hour.
- Simple ingredients: Just sweet potatoes, honey, feta, and a few pantry spices.
- Perfect for gatherings: These rounds look fancy but require minimal effort, making them ideal for parties or holiday spreads, especially if you mix in party appetizer recipes like Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.
- Unbeatable flavor combo: The sweet potato’s natural caramelization pairs perfectly with tangy feta and sweet honey.
- Crowd-pleaser: Even those who don’t usually go for sweet potatoes find themselves reaching for seconds.
This version stands out thanks to the spice blend that adds warmth and depth while still letting the sweet-salty topping shine. It’s a dish that hits the balance of comfort food and elegant appetizer, so you’ll feel confident serving it anywhere from a casual dinner to a festive gathering.
Ingredients Needed
For the sweet potato rounds
- 3 large sweet potatoes, scrubbed and sliced into ⅓-inch rounds
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the seasoning blend
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
For the topping
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey (regular or hot honey)
- Extra honey for drizzling
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Notes & Substitutions
- Sweet potatoes: Choose firm, evenly shaped ones for uniform slices. You can swap with Japanese sweet potatoes for a nuttier flavor.
- Feta: Crumbled goat cheese works well if you prefer a creamier bite. For dairy-free, use plant-based feta alternatives.
- Honey: Hot honey adds a spicy kick. Maple syrup can stand in if you want a vegan version.
- Spices: Adjust the red pepper flakes or omit them for kids. You can also add garlic powder for extra depth.
How to Make Honey Feta Sweet Potato Rounds
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 425°F so it’s fully hot before the sweet potatoes go in. A hot oven is key for crisp edges.
- Prep the potatoes. Wash, dry, and slice the sweet potatoes into ⅓-inch rounds. Keep the thickness consistent so they cook evenly.
- Season well. Toss the slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and the spice blend until every round is coated. Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid crowding, or they’ll steam instead of roast.
- Roast until golden. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip each slice. Continue roasting for another 20–25 minutes, or until the bottoms are caramelized and the edges crisp up.
- Make the topping. While the potatoes roast, crumble the feta and stir a drizzle of honey into it for extra cohesion. Taste and adjust more honey for sweetness, more feta for tang.
- Assemble. Arrange the roasted rounds on a platter. Top each with a spoonful of feta, drizzle lightly with honey, and sprinkle over fresh herbs.
- Serve warm. These bites are at their best straight from the oven, but they can hold for about 20 minutes at room temperature if you’re entertaining.
Air fryer option: Cook in batches at 390°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, and check these air fryer tips from Hibachi Zucchini for crisp edges.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Expert Tips
- Aim for even slices: A steady ⅓-inch thickness helps the rounds cook at the same pace. Thicker slices may stay soft in the center.
- Use parchment or a silicone mat: This prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
- Add honey at the right time: A final drizzle after baking keeps the sweetness fresh without burning in the oven.
- Warm the feta slightly: Letting it sit at room temp makes it creamier and easier to crumble evenly.
- Batch for parties: Roast trays ahead, then refresh in the oven for 5 minutes just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the pan: Leads to soggy rounds. Always leave space between slices.
- Skipping the flip: Without turning them halfway, one side can burn while the other stays pale.
- Overdoing honey in the oven: Too much before roasting may caramelize into sticky burnt spots.
- Not salting enough: Sweet potatoes need a good hit of salt to balance the sugar and honey.
A Creative Shortcut
Whip feta with a touch of Greek yogurt and lemon juice. It spreads easily and gives each bite a creamy base that feels extra gourmet.
Serving, Storage & Variations
Serving Ideas
- Arrange on a rustic wooden board with nuts and fruit for a holiday appetizer spread.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, sparkling cider, or a blueberry lemonade smoothie for a balanced bite.
- Serve alongside roasted meats like this lemon chicken recipe or grain bowls as a sweet-salty side dish.
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container; FSIS notes most leftovers keep best quality for 3 to 4 months in the freezer.
- Food safety note: Always cool rounds before chilling, and avoid serving honey to infants under 12 months, as the CDC warns against honey for babies due to botulism risk.
Reheating
- Oven: Warm at 375°F for 8–10 minutes to revive crispness.
- Air fryer: Heat at 360°F for 5–6 minutes.
- Skillet: Quick pan-sear over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
Variations
- Goat cheese twist: Replace feta with tangy goat cheese for a creamier topping.
- Vegan option: Use dairy-free feta and swap honey for maple syrup.
- Spice it up: Drizzle with hot honey or sprinkle chili flakes for extra kick.
- Nutty crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts before serving.
- Fresh herbs: Switch parsley with thyme, rosemary, or mint depending on the season.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (approx. 2–3 rounds)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 130 |
Carbohydrates | 20 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 210 mg |
Sugar | 7 g |
(Values are estimated using standard nutrition databases and may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.)
Ingredient Benefits
- Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes supply beta-carotene that the body converts to vitamin A, a nutrient essential for vision and immune function, according to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. USDA FoodData Central lists sweet potatoes as a vitamin-A–rich food, supporting their role as a key source of provitamin A carotenoids in this recipe.
- Feta cheese: Feta adds protein and calcium and balances sweetness, but it can be high in sodium, as noted by WebMD, so season the potatoes accordingly.
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness and pairs with feta to create a balanced bite.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives brighten the flavor and add trace vitamins.
Tip: If you change toppings or swap feta for a dairy-free cheese, recalculate values with a tool like Cronometer or MyFitnessPal for accuracy.
Conclusion
Honey Feta Sweet Potato Rounds prove that a few simple ingredients can create something unforgettable. The balance of caramelized sweet potatoes, tangy feta, and golden honey makes every bite feel special, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want a fun snack at home. With minimal prep and easy steps, this recipe delivers maximum flavor without fuss.
If you give these a try, let us know how they turned out by leaving a comment and a star rating below. We’d love to hear if you served them as a party appetizer, a side dish, or even as a light lunch. And if you put your own spin on the toppings maybe goat cheese, hot honey, or fresh thyme—share that too.
Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest or share it with friends on Facebook so they can enjoy it as well. What topping combo do you think works best? Drop your ideas in the comments—we may even add them to the variations section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
No, the skin becomes tender when roasted and adds extra fiber. Peel them only if you prefer a smoother texture.
How thick should I slice the rounds?
About ⅓ inch thick works best. Thinner slices can burn, while thicker slices may not crisp up.
Can I make these in the air fryer instead of the oven?
Yes, cook at 390°F for 15–18 minutes in batches, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
What is the best way to keep the rounds crisp for a party?
Keep them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (200°F) until ready to serve. Avoid covering tightly, which traps steam.
Can I swap feta for goat cheese or whipped feta?
Absolutely. Goat cheese adds creaminess, and whipped feta makes an elegant spreadable base.
How do I make this dairy free or vegan?
Use plant-based feta and replace honey with maple syrup or agave.
Can I prep these ahead and reheat without drying them out?
Yes, roast the rounds, cool completely, and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven or air fryer just before serving to restore crispness.