Crispy Oven Fried Feta Rolls

These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey deliver a perfect snack that feels both indulgent and elegant. With crispy phyllo pastry surrounding a creamy, tangy feta filling, each bite is elevated by a drizzle of warm chili honey that adds sweetness and a gentle kick. Ideal as a party appetizer, brunch addition, or a refined snack, they offer a wonderful balance of textures and flavors without the heaviness of deep frying.

I remember making these for a small gathering and watching everyone’s eyes light up at the first bite. Now, whenever friends come over, this recipe is a must on the menu.

Ingredients

• Phyllo pastry sheets: choose fresh or well-sealed packages to avoid drying out
• Feta cheese: the star of the filling Greek sheep’s milk feta offers rich creaminess
• Cream cheese: optional, adds silky texture and mellows the tang
• Fresh mint: adds a bright herbal note, use tender leaves for best flavor
• Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers: provide depth and subtle sweetness to the filling
• Olive oil or melted butter: essential for brushing layers to achieve flakiness and golden color
• Sesame seeds: contribute crunchy texture and nuttiness topping the rolls
• Chili flakes: bring a warm, spicy heat, adjust based on preference
• Honey: the sweet base of the drizzle, opt for raw or mild-flavored honey
• Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar: balances the sweetness in the chili honey glaze

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit 190 degrees Celsius. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the rolls bake evenly and won’t stick.

Mix the Filling:

In a bowl, crumble the feta cheese and add cream cheese if using. Finely chop the fresh mint and sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers and stir everything together gently. You want the mixture combined but still with some texture.

Layer the Phyllo:

Place one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean surface and cover the rest with a damp towel to keep them pliable. Lightly brush the sheet with olive oil or melted butter, then layer another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat so you have two to three layers.

Fill and Roll:

Spoon a modest amount of the cheese mixture near one end of your stacked phyllo. Fold the sides over carefully and roll the pastry tightly into a cigar shape. Put the roll seam-side down on your baking sheet. Continue this process for all the sheets and filling.

Add Toppings:

Brush each roll with extra olive oil or butter. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and chili flakes to add crunch and a little heat in the bite.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake the rolls for about 18 to 22 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remember to rotate the baking tray halfway to ensure even coloring.

Prepare the Chili Honey:

While rolls bake, gently warm the honey in a small saucepan on low heat. Stir in chili flakes and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it simmer briefly for a minute or two, then take off the heat and let cool slightly.

Serve:

Allow the baked rolls to rest for a few minutes, then drizzle them generously with the warm chili honey. Garnish with fresh mint if you like. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispiness.

Bookmark

My favorite part has to be the chili honey glaze. It adds just the right touch of heat and floral sweetness that turns these rolls into something truly special. Once, at a family brunch, these were devoured so quickly they barely made it to the table warm, and the kids kept asking for the spicy honey drizzle on everything.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes to revive their crispness. Avoid the microwave as it will make the pastry soggy. The chili honey keeps well at room temperature for about a week when sealed tightly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer, fresh dill or parsley can replace mint for a fresh herbal twist. Instead of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives offer a savory, briny flavor. Using goat cheese mixed with feta can add a creamier texture but avoid cheeses that melt too much as the filling needs to hold shape. For a spicier version, consider hot honey or infuse the honey with different chili varieties for unique heat profiles.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls shine as a party snack alongside a mezze platter featuring olives, roasted vegetables, and warm pita bread. They also pair beautifully with crisp white wines or bright cocktails. For a lighter meal, serve with a green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the feta filling and the sweetness of the drizzle.

Cultural Context

Phyllo pastry and feta are pillars of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, prized for their versatility and fresh flavors. The chili honey drizzle adds a modern twist that balances traditional salty cheese with sweet and spicy elements, reflective of growing global influences on classic recipes.

Pro Tips

• Always keep phyllo covered with a damp towel to prevent brittleness
• Do not overfill the rolls to avoid breakage during baking
• Toast chili flakes lightly before adding to honey for deeper flavor and aroma

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use store-bought hot honey instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought hot honey offers convenience and a similar sweet-spicy flavor. Warm it gently before drizzling to match the glaze texture.

→ Can these rolls be frozen?

Yes, freeze them unbaked on a tray until firm, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen with an extra 5–7 minutes for perfect crispness.

→ What kind of feta works best?

Greek sheep’s milk feta delivers the best creamy texture and flavor. Avoid pre-crumbled feta for optimal moisture and richness.

→ How to keep phyllo pastry from drying out?

Cover unused phyllo sheets with a slightly damp towel while working to prevent brittleness and tearing during assembly.

→ Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate the rolls covered for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving to retain crispiness.

→ How spicy is the chili honey glaze?

The heat can be adjusted by varying chili flakes. By default, it offers a mild warmth balanced by honey’s sweetness.