Easy Crispy Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Spicy Chili Honey are the perfect appetizer when you want something crunchy, creamy, sweet, and just a little spicy, all in one bite. These golden phyllo rolls are filled with tangy feta and creamy ricotta, baked until crisp in the oven, then finished with a warm chili honey drizzle that takes them over the top. They look impressive, taste indulgent, and are surprisingly simple to make at home.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Crispy Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Spicy Chili Honey
These feta rolls are baked instead of deep-fried, making them lighter while still delivering that irresistible crunch. The creamy cheese filling balances beautifully with the crisp phyllo layers, and the spicy chili honey adds a sweet-heat contrast that keeps everyone reaching for another roll. They’re perfect for parties, holidays, game days, or even a cozy night in when you want a special snack without a lot of effort.
Ingredients for Easy Crispy Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Spicy Chili Honey
Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Phyllo Rolls
- 10 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted or olive oil
Spicy Chili Honey
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes, to taste
Ingredient Notes
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the feta slightly and add more ricotta for extra creaminess. Goat cheese works well as a partial substitute for feta if you enjoy a softer tang. If you don’t have thyme, dried oregano or parsley are excellent alternatives. For a family-friendly option with less heat, use just a pinch of chili flakes or skip them entirely.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the crumbled feta, ricotta cheese, thyme, and black pepper until smooth and evenly combined. Set aside.
Step 2 – Prepare the Phyllo Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully unroll the phyllo dough and keep it covered with a clean, slightly damp towel to prevent drying out. Cut each sheet in half lengthwise to create long strips.
Step 3 – Assemble the Feta Rolls
Place one strip of phyllo on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture near one end. Fold in the sides and roll tightly into a cigar shape. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining phyllo and filling.
Step 4 – Bake Until Crispy
Brush the tops of the rolls lightly with more butter or oil. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
Step 5 – Make the Spicy Chili Honey
While the rolls bake, warm the honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the chili flakes and heat gently for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit.
Step 6 – Serve
Drizzle the warm chili honey over the baked feta rolls or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy while hot and crispy.
Pro Tips for Success
Use room-temperature cheese for a smoother filling. Don’t overfill the phyllo or the rolls may burst while baking. Keep unused phyllo covered at all times to prevent cracking. Brush lightly with butter instead of soaking the dough to keep the rolls crisp, not greasy. Flip the rolls halfway through baking for even browning.
Flavor Variations
Add finely chopped spinach to the filling for a spinach-feta version. Mix in lemon zest for a brighter, fresher flavor. Use smoked paprika in the filling for a subtle smoky note. Swap chili honey for plain honey and a squeeze of lemon for a milder finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before baking for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these feta rolls as an appetizer with a fresh Greek salad or a cucumber yogurt dip. They also pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple tomato salad. For entertaining, arrange them on a platter with extra chili honey on the side and garnish with fresh herbs.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover feta rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes to restore crispness. To freeze, assemble the rolls but do not bake. Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 to 7 minutes to the baking time.
Easy Crispy Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Spicy Chili Honey
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 10 rolls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy Crispy Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Spicy Chili Honey are golden, crunchy phyllo rolls filled with creamy feta and ricotta, baked until crisp and finished with a sweet and spicy chili honey drizzle.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 10 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted or olive oil
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix feta, ricotta, thyme, and black pepper until smooth.
- Unroll phyllo dough and keep covered with a damp towel.
- Cut each phyllo sheet in half lengthwise.
- Place one strip on a surface and brush lightly with butter or oil.
- Add about 1 tablespoon cheese filling near one end.
- Fold in sides and roll tightly into a cigar shape.
- Place seam-side down on baking sheet and repeat.
- Brush tops lightly with more butter or oil.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Warm honey over low heat and stir in chili flakes.
- Drizzle chili honey over baked feta rolls or serve on the side.
Notes
Do not overfill the phyllo to prevent bursting. Keep unused phyllo covered to avoid drying out. Adjust chili flakes to taste for desired heat level.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 210 | 7g | 18g | 13g | 1g | 420mg |
FAQ About Easy Crispy Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Spicy Chili Honey
Can I make these feta rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Brush with butter just before baking for best results.
Are these feta rolls spicy?
They have a mild to moderate heat depending on how much chili you use. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili flakes.
Can I air fry feta rolls instead of baking?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.
What can I use instead of phyllo dough?
Phyllo works best for crispiness, but spring roll wrappers can be used as an alternative with slightly different texture.
Is chili honey necessary?
It’s optional, but highly recommended. The sweet and spicy contrast really elevates the flavor of the salty feta filling.
Final Thoughts
Easy Crispy Oven-Fried Feta Rolls with Spicy Chili Honey are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that feels fancy without being complicated. With crisp layers, creamy filling, and a sweet-spicy finish, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, this recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.