Oven Fried Feta Rolls

These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey bring together crispy phyllo pastry and a creamy, tangy filling with a perfect hit of sweet heat from the chili honey drizzle. They’re elegant enough for a special occasion and simple enough for an everyday snack. The contrast of flaky crust, rich feta, and the spicy-sweet glaze creates a balance that hits all the right notes in every bite. Whether you are hosting friends or treating yourself, this recipe delivers a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I first made these rolls on a whim for a dinner party and was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. Now I keep the ingredients stocked so I can whip them up whenever I want a snack that feels both indulgent and sophisticated.

Ingredients

• Phyllo pastry: provides a light, crispy texture, look for fresh sheets and keep them covered to prevent drying
• Feta cheese: the star of the filling, use creamy Greek sheep’s milk feta for authentic flavor
• Cream cheese: optional but adds extra smoothness and richness
• Fresh mint: brightens the filling with a fresh herbal touch, choose vibrant leaves without spots
• Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers: deepen the flavors with a slightly smoky, sweet note
• Olive oil or melted butter: essential for brushing phyllo layers to create flakiness and golden color
• Sesame seeds: add crunch and a nutty flavor, check for freshness as oils can go rancid
• Chili flakes: bring heat and depth, adjust according to your spice tolerance
• Honey: for a natural sweetness in the drizzle, choose raw or mild honey for balance
• Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar: adds acidity to brighten the chili honey glaze

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit which ensures the rolls bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so nothing sticks and your cleanup is easy.

Make the Filling:

In a mixing bowl, crumble the feta cheese finely but not to a paste. Add cream cheese if using, fresh chopped mint, and your choice of sun-dried tomatoes or roasted peppers. Mix gently so the texture is chunky but well combined to keep the filling interesting.

Prepare the Phyllo Sheets:

Lay one phyllo sheet on a clean surface and cover the rest with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. Brush the sheet lightly with olive oil or melted butter, then stack another sheet on top and brush again. Repeat until you have 2 to 3 layers ready for rolling.

Fill and Roll:

Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture close to one end of the layered phyllo. Fold in the sides tightly over the filling and roll it up like a cigar, making sure to keep it snug for the best texture. Place the roll seam-side down on your baking sheet. Repeat with remaining sheets and filling.

Add the Toppings:

Brush the tops of the rolls with a little more oil or butter for extra golden crispness. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and chili flakes to create a beautiful crunchy, slightly spicy finish.

Bake Until Golden:

Bake the rolls for about 18 to 22 minutes until they are deep golden brown. Turn the baking tray halfway through for even crisping and color.

Make the Chili Honey:

While the rolls bake, combine the honey, chili flakes, and lemon juice or vinegar in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat just until everything blends and becomes a bit more fluid, about one to two minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Finish and Serve:

When the rolls come out of the oven, let them rest for a couple of minutes so the pastry sets up a bit. Drizzle generously with the warm chili honey just before serving, and garnish with fresh mint if you like. Enjoy them warm for the best texture and flavor.

Save Pin

Storage tips

Leftover rolls keep nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, put them back in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for eight to ten minutes to regain that crispy texture. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the roll flaky. The chili honey can be stored separately in a sealed jar at room temperature and used up within a week.

Ingredient substitutions

If you do not have cream cheese, use ricotta for a smoother texture or skip it altogether to keep the filling sharper with just feta. You can swap fresh mint for dill or parsley to change the flavor profile. Roasted red peppers can be replaced with finely chopped olives for a salty twist. Choose gluten-free phyllo if dietary restrictions require it.

Serving suggestions

These rolls go beautifully with a fresh green salad, tomato-cucumber salad, or even a mezze platter with olives and hummus. A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling rosé pairs exceptionally well to balance the richness and spice. For brunch, serve alongside eggs and fresh fruit for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

• Keep unused phyllo covered with a damp towel to stop it from drying and breaking easily
• Don’t skip brushing oil or butter between layers for that signature flakiness
• Be careful not to overfill the rolls or they may burst while baking

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use store-bought hot honey?

Yes, store-bought hot honey works well and can be warmed slightly before drizzling to enhance flavor and ease of pouring.

→ Is it possible to freeze the rolls?

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

→ What type of feta cheese should I choose?

Greek sheep’s milk feta offers the best balance of flavor and creaminess. Avoid pre-crumbled varieties as they tend to be drier.

→ How spicy is the chili honey drizzle?

The drizzle is mildly spicy by default, but you can adjust chili flakes to suit your preferred heat level.

→ Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, by selecting gluten-free phyllo pastry and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

→ Are these suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, provided the feta used is made with vegetarian rennet and the honey aligns with dietary preferences.