Crispy Phyllo Rolls with Feta & Hot Honey Drizzle

Hot Honey Feta Phyllo Rolls are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, combining the creaminess of feta and cream cheese with the crispiness of flaky phyllo dough. The golden rolls are finished with a drizzle of warm honey, creating the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory in every bite. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds an extra layer of crunch, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Whether you’re serving these as an appetizer, brunch bite, or party snack, they’re guaranteed to impress. The combination of fresh herbs, cheese, and honey elevates the dish, while the phyllo dough crisps up beautifully in the oven. Pair them with a light salad or enjoy them as a stand-alone snack—either way, they’re bound to become a new favorite!

Full Recipe:

  • 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or mint), chopped
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix feta cheese, cream cheese, fresh herbs, honey (reserve some for drizzling), red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush lightly with olive oil. Layer another sheet on top and brush again.
  4. Cut the layered phyllo into strips, about 3-4 inches wide.
  5. Spoon a tablespoon of the feta mixture onto one end of each strip, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
  6. Place rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
  7. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  9. Drizzle with reserved honey before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

Hot Honey Feta Phyllo Rolls: A Crispy, Sweet & Savory Delight

Hot Honey Feta Phyllo Rolls are a delightful combination of crispy, golden phyllo dough, rich and creamy feta filling, and a drizzle of warm honey to balance the flavors perfectly. These rolls are a must-try for anyone who loves the contrast of sweet and savory in a single bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a party snack, or even a brunch item, they are bound to impress with their flaky texture and bold flavors.

The Inspiration Behind This Dish

This dish draws inspiration from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, where feta cheese and honey are often paired together in various dishes. The combination of salty, tangy feta and the sweetness of honey has been enjoyed for centuries, particularly in Greek cuisine. Traditional Greek pastries, such as tiropita (cheese pie) and bougatsa, incorporate similar elements, making this dish a modern and bite-sized take on these beloved classics.

The addition of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint brings a burst of freshness, while the optional red pepper flakes introduce a hint of heat that makes every bite exciting. Using phyllo dough instead of a thicker pastry ensures that each roll is incredibly light, flaky, and crispy—perfect for those who love texture in their food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hot Honey Feta Phyllo Rolls are a crowd-pleaser, making them an excellent choice for gatherings, dinner parties, or holiday celebrations. They’re easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients, yet they look elegant and taste gourmet.

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can tweak the recipe by adding different cheeses, such as ricotta or goat cheese, for a smoother and creamier texture. The choice of herbs can also be adjusted based on preference—rosemary, thyme, or even basil would add unique flavors to the dish.

For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, the honey drizzle can be infused with additional ingredients like citrus zest, cinnamon, or even chili flakes to elevate the dish further. The contrast between the crispy phyllo layers and the warm, melted cheese inside creates an unbeatable bite.

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Phyllo Dough

Phyllo dough is notorious for being delicate and tricky to work with, but with a few tips, you can ensure that your rolls turn out beautifully crisp and flaky every time:

  • Keep the phyllo covered: When working with phyllo dough, it dries out quickly. Covering it with a slightly damp kitchen towel helps keep it pliable and prevents it from cracking.
  • Brush with olive oil or butter: Each layer of phyllo should be brushed lightly with olive oil or melted butter to create that golden, crispy texture. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much oil can make the rolls greasy.
  • Use a sharp knife for cutting: Whether you’re slicing the phyllo into strips or trimming the edges, a sharp knife ensures clean cuts without tearing the delicate layers.

How to Serve and Enjoy Hot Honey Feta Phyllo Rolls

These rolls are best served warm, right out of the oven when the phyllo is at its crispiest, and the cheese is soft and melty. The final drizzle of honey should be added just before serving, ensuring that the sweetness remains vibrant and does not soak into the rolls too soon.

Pairing these rolls with a light dipping sauce can elevate them even further. A yogurt-based dip with lemon, garlic, and dill complements the feta beautifully. Alternatively, a balsamic glaze or fig jam would work wonders for those who enjoy a more complex sweet-savory contrast.

For a complete meal, serve these phyllo rolls alongside a fresh Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a lemony vinaigrette. They also make a fantastic addition to a brunch spread, paired with fresh fruit, cured meats, and a selection of cheeses.

A Healthier Take on This Dish

While this dish is undeniably indulgent, there are ways to make it slightly healthier without compromising on taste:

  • Use low-fat feta or cream cheese to reduce overall fat content while keeping the creamy consistency intact.
  • Opt for whole-wheat phyllo dough if available, as it provides more fiber while maintaining the crispiness.
  • Reduce the honey drizzle slightly for a lower-sugar option while still keeping the balance of flavors.

Another great idea is to bake these rolls in an air fryer instead of a traditional oven. This method reduces the need for excessive oil while still achieving that crispy, golden exterior.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they disappear fast!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, phyllo dough tends to lose its crispiness over time, so reheating properly is key:

  • Oven method: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until they become crispy again.
  • Air fryer method: A quick 5-minute warm-up at 350°F will restore their crunch.
  • Avoid microwaving: The microwave will make the phyllo soggy rather than crispy, so it’s best to reheat using dry heat methods.

If you’d like to prepare these rolls in advance, assemble them and freeze them before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake them straight from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Balance of Flavor and Texture

Hot Honey Feta Phyllo Rolls are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The combination of flaky, golden pastry, creamy cheese, and sweet honey results in a dish that is both elegant and satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a delicious homemade snack, these rolls are sure to become a favorite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and spice levels to make it uniquely yours. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, one thing is certain: these crispy, cheesy delights will have everyone reaching for seconds!

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