Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey recipe during a summer in Greece. The local tavern served a similar dish that captivated my taste buds. After many attempts and tweaks, I've perfected this version to share with friends and family. It’s become a staple at my gatherings, showcasing the beautiful flavors of Mediterranean cuisine."

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience specializing in Mediterranean cuisine. He has created over 1000 recipes, with a focus on appetizers and small plates. His culinary journey began at a renowned culinary school, where he honed his skills in flavors and presentation.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey served on a plate

Why This Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey Recipe Works

This recipe stands out for its unique combination of crispy texture and creamy filling. The phyllo pastry creates a light, flaky outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the rich feta cheese mixture inside. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, thanks to the addition of herbs and spices that complement the feta perfectly.

The technique of layering phyllo pastry and brushing it with butter ensures a golden and crispy exterior. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together while creating a satisfying crunch. The drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness that elevates the dish, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, be sure to keep the phyllo pastry covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from drying out. Additionally, don’t skimp on the butter; it’s essential for achieving that crispy texture. Experiment with different herbs in the filling for varied flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the rolls a few hours in advance. Assemble them completely and place them on the baking sheet. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time, as they will be cold from the fridge.

If you’re looking for a substitute, goat cheese or ricotta can work well in this recipe. Goat cheese will provide a tangy flavor similar to feta, while ricotta will create a creamier texture. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain the flavor balance.

When the rolls are a deep golden brown and crispy on the outside, they are done. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning.

Yes, these rolls freeze well. Prepare them up to the baking step, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding additional time to ensure they are heated through.

These rolls pair beautifully with a simple Greek salad or tzatziki sauce for dipping. You can also serve them alongside olives and cured meats for a Mediterranean platter that will delight your guests.

Stored properly in an airtight container, Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness before serving.

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the rolls ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.

The best way to reheat these rolls is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them regain their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The rolls are lacking moisture and taste dry.

Solution: Ensure you are using enough butter on the phyllo layers and include sufficient ricotta or cream cheese in the filling to keep it creamy.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The rolls came out soft or soggy.

Solution: Make sure to bake the rolls long enough, and consider increasing the oven temperature slightly. Ensure the pastry layers are adequately buttered, as this helps with crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The exterior is burnt or too dark.

Prevention: To prevent burning, check the rolls a few minutes before the recommended baking time. If they are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil while baking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The insides are not heated through or remain cold.

Recovery: If the centers are undercooked, return them to the oven for an additional few minutes. You can also cut one open to check if it’s properly heated.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outer layer of the rolls is burnt while the inside remains undercooked.

Prevention: Lower the oven temperature slightly and extend the baking time to ensure even cooking throughout.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the rolls are too sweet, reduce the amount of honey used in the recipe.

Too Salty: If the rolls are too salty, balance the flavors by adding a bit of cream cheese or a side of unsweetened yogurt.

Bland: To enhance flavor, try adding more seasoning to the filling or serve with a flavorful dip like tzatziki.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey

Key ingredients for Crispy Feta Rolls include high-quality feta cheese, which provides a rich and tangy flavor. The phyllo pastry should be fresh to achieve that perfect crunch. Honey adds an irresistible sweetness, balancing the saltiness of the feta.

When selecting ingredients, opt for locally sourced feta if possible, as it enhances the dish’s authenticity. Fresh herbs and spices will also elevate the flavors significantly, making the rolls even more delightful.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Feta Cheese: Choose a good quality, preferably Greek feta cheese for the best flavor. Look for feta that is creamy and not too salty for a balanced taste.
  • Phyllo Pastry: Keep phyllo pastry covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out. Use several layers for extra crispiness.
  • Honey: Opt for pure, natural honey to enhance the sweetness without artificial flavors. Local honey can add a unique touch to the dish.
Cooking process for Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey is straightforward and fun. Begin by preparing your filling with feta and spices, then layer your phyllo pastry for that perfect crunch. Rolling and baking them is a breeze, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.

Achieving perfect results involves careful layering of the phyllo and ensuring the filling is not too wet. Baking at the right temperature creates a wonderful golden crust, while the honey drizzle adds that finishing touch for flavor and presentation.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey

The key to achieving perfect Crispy Feta Rolls lies in the layering of the phyllo pastry. Each sheet should be brushed with butter to ensure a crispy texture. Additionally, rolling the filling tightly helps maintain shape during baking and ensures even cooking.

Crispy Feta Rolls with Honey

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup honey
    For drizzling
  • 1/2 cup walnuts
    Chopped
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
    Optional

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb feta cheese
    Crumbled
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
    Softened
  • 1 package phyllo pastry
    Thawed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    Melted
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 egg
    For egg wash

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling

    In a bowl, combine crumbled feta, ricotta, oregano, garlic powder, lemon juice, walnuts, black pepper, salt, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.

  2. Prepare Phyllo Pastry

    Lay one phyllo sheet on a clean surface and brush it with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush again.

  3. Add Filling

    Place a row of the filling mixture along one edge of the phyllo pastry, leaving space at the sides.

  4. Roll the Pastry

    Fold the sides of the phyllo over the filling and roll tightly to form a log. Cut into desired lengths.

  5. Prepare for Baking

    Place the rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg.

  6. Bake the Rolls

    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

  7. Prepare Honey Drizzle

    While the rolls are baking, warm the honey in a small saucepan to make it easier to drizzle.

  8. Serve

    Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven, drizzle with warm honey, and garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Crispy Feta Rolls, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, consider reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious rolls warm, drizzled with honey, and garnished with chopped fresh herbs. They pair well with a side of tzatziki or a light salad to balance the richness of the feta.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with the filling by adding sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. You can also try using different cheeses, such as goat cheese, for a unique twist.