Name: Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional); 6 sheets phyllo pastry (cut in half lengthwise to make 12 sheets); ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil (for brushing); ¼ cup honey; ½ tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)

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Introduction

These Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a crispy, cheesy delight perfect as a snack or appetizer. The combination of tangy feta, creamy ricotta, and a spicy-sweet honey drizzle makes them irresistible. Plus, baking instead of frying keeps them lighter but just as delicious.

The image shows four golden-brown, flaky rolls arranged close together on a white plate. Each roll is made of several thin, crispy layers of pastry wrapped tightly around a soft, white cheese filling that is visible at the ends. The surface of the rolls is shiny with a light glaze and sprinkled lightly with white sesame seeds and small red chili flakes. Small green herbs are scattered over the rolls and plate. The plate sits on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
6 sheets phyllo pastry (cut in half lengthwise to make 12 sheets)
¼ cup melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)
¼ cup honey
½ tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix the crumbled feta, ricotta, and thyme until smooth and evenly combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Cut the phyllo sheets in half lengthwise to create 12 strips. Keep them covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 4: Place one strip of phyllo on a work surface and brush it lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling near one end, fold the sides in, and roll up tightly. Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining strips and filling.
Step 5: Brush the tops of the rolls with more melted butter or oil for a golden, crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake the rolls for 15–20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: While the rolls bake, warm the honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the chili flakes and let it infuse for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 8: Drizzle the warm chili honey over the baked rolls or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with extra thyme if desired and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme or a pinch of oregano works well too.
For a milder chili honey, reduce the red chili flakes or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky note.
Brush phyllo sheets gently to avoid tearing and keep extra sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
Try adding chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese filling for extra flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the phyllo soggy.

How to Serve

Four golden-brown, crispy rolls are tightly wrapped in thin, shiny layers of phyllo dough, each with a visible creamy white cheese filling peeking from the ends. The rolls are garnished with small white sesame seeds, red chili flakes, and tiny green herb leaves scattered on top and around them. They sit stacked on a smooth, white plate with a slight shine, placed on a white marbled surface. The close-up shot highlights the delicate texture and layers of the phyllo dough, with a warm, inviting light making the rolls look glossy and fresh. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the cheese filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese filling a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before assembling the rolls for easier spreading.

Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, assemble the rolls but do not brush with butter or bake. Wrap them tightly and freeze. When ready, brush with butter and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.