Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey

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Crispy, golden, and irresistibly savory, these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are the kind of snack that blurs the line between indulgence and elegance. Encased in shatteringly crisp phyllo pastry, the creamy feta filling is perfectly balanced by the fiery sweetness of a homemade chili honey drizzle. They make a stunning appetizer or party snack, but they’re just as welcome on a brunch table or alongside a fresh salad.

Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a rich, tangy burst of feta, complemented by the seductive heat of chili and the mellow kiss of honey. These rolls are a masterclass in contrast — crisp and soft, salty and sweet, hot and cool. Plus, since they’re oven-fried rather than deep-fried, you get all the flavor and texture without the excess oil.

Why You’ll Love This Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey

• A showstopping appetizer that’s easy to prepare.
• Perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy flavors.
• Oven-baked for a lighter alternative to deep frying.
• Great make-ahead option for parties and gatherings.
• Pairs beautifully with wine, cocktails, or a mezze spread.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this dish to life, a few essential tools will streamline the process and ensure crispy, golden perfection:

• Pastry Brush: Crucial for brushing each layer of phyllo with oil or butter, which creates that beautiful flaky texture.
• Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: Ensures even baking and prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
• Sharp Knife or Kitchen Scissors: For trimming phyllo sheets and cutting rolls uniformly.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the feta filling and other ingredients smoothly.
• Small Saucepan: To make the chili honey glaze with full control over thickness and flavor.

Each tool helps elevate this dish from simple to sensational, making sure your rolls bake evenly, stay intact, and taste incredible.

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Preparation Tips

When working with phyllo dough, always keep it covered with a slightly damp towel while you assemble the rolls to prevent it from drying out. Use good-quality feta for maximum creaminess and flavor; a mix of creamy feta and a touch of cream cheese can make the filling extra luscious. Don’t overstuff the rolls — a modest amount of filling keeps the structure tight and crisp. Finally, be generous with the sesame seed topping and chili flakes for that crave-worthy finish. Let the rolls cool slightly before drizzling with chili honey so the glaze stays vibrant and doesn’t soak in too quickly.

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Ingredients for this Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey

For the Rolls:

• 10 sheets of phyllo pastry, thawed
• 200g (7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• 50g (1.7 oz) cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint (optional)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers (optional, for depth)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing phyllo)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (white or mixed)
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

For the Chili Honey Drizzle:

• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (or more, depending on spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (to balance sweetness)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking and ensure even baking.

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Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, optional cream cheese for creaminess, fresh mint, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers. Mix until well blended but still slightly chunky for texture.

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Step 3: Prepare the Phyllo Sheets

Lay one sheet of phyllo pastry on a clean, dry surface and cover the remaining sheets with a damp cloth to prevent drying. Lightly brush the sheet with olive oil or melted butter. Add another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat until you have 2–3 layers stacked.

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Step 4: Fill and Roll

Place a spoonful of the feta mixture near one end of the stacked phyllo. Fold the sides over and roll it up tightly into a cigar shape. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining sheets and filling.

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Step 5: Add the Toppings

Brush the tops of the rolls with a bit more oil or butter. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and chili flakes for crunch and a hint of heat.

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Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy. Rotate the tray halfway through baking for even browning.

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Step 7: Make the Chili Honey

While the rolls bake, heat the honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Add chili flakes and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Stir and simmer for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat and let it slightly cool.

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Step 8: Finish and Serve

Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them rest for 2–3 minutes. Drizzle generously with warm chili honey just before serving. Garnish with fresh mint if desired. Serve warm and crispy.

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Notes

These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are incredibly adaptable. You can swap out the mint for fresh dill or parsley, or add a few chopped olives for a briny touch. The chili honey drizzle can also be adjusted depending on your spice tolerance—use hot honey or infuse your own with different types of chili flakes. For a touch of citrusy brightness, a bit of lemon zest can be mixed into the cheese filling.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Letting the phyllo dry out: Always cover unused sheets with a damp towel. Once dry, they become brittle and hard to work with.
• Overfilling the rolls: Too much filling can cause them to burst open during baking.
• Skipping the oil or butter layers: This is key for crispy, flaky texture.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on the color — they should be a deep golden brown.
• Drizzling the honey too early: If you add it while the rolls are too hot, it might soak in and lose its sticky sheen.

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Storage Instructions

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to regain their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the phyllo soggy. The chili honey can be stored in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to a week.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Roll, Approximate)

• Calories: 160 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 280mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes! Hot honey works perfectly and saves time. Just warm it slightly before drizzling.

Can I freeze these rolls?

Yes, you can freeze them unbaked. Place on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the baking time.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free phyllo pastry, which is available in some specialty stores or online. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What’s the best feta to use?

Look for Greek sheep’s milk feta for the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-crumbled feta—it tends to be drier.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for maximum crispness.

How spicy is the chili honey?

It’s mildly spicy by default. Adjust the amount of chili flakes to make it milder or hotter to suit your taste.

What other cheeses can I use?

A mix of ricotta and feta or even goat cheese can work well. Avoid cheeses that melt too much and lose shape.

Are these suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, just ensure your feta is made with vegetarian rennet, and the honey source is acceptable to your dietary preference.

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Conclusion

Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a flavor-packed treat that balances crispy texture, creamy filling, and a sweet-spicy glaze. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a regular in your rotation — a golden, gooey, spicy-sweet snack you’ll crave over and over.

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