Honey Drizzled Feta Rolls
- 12-cup muffin tin
- Small saucepan
INGREDIENTS
- 6 sheets phyllo dough, thawed if frozen
- 2.5 ounces/70 grams unsalted butter, melted
- 1¼ cups/200 grams feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey
INSTRUCTIONS
- Heat the oven to 355°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
- Place one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean work surface and cover the remaining sheets with a clean, damp kitchen towel to prevent drying out. Cut the sheet in half crosswise to create two rectangles. Brush one rectangle generously with melted butter.
- Spoon about 1½ tablespoons of crumbled feta along the short edge of the rectangle. Roll the phyllo into a log, then twist gently into a spiral. Transfer to the muffin tin. Repeat with the remaining phyllo and cheese.
- Brush the tops of the spirals with more melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crisp.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then transfer the rolls to a serving plate. Drizzle with honey and serve warm.
FAQ
Prevent the phyllo from tearing when making the feta rolls
Phyllo dough is delicate and can tear easily if it dries out. To prevent tearing when making feta rolls, work with one sheet at a time and keep the remaining sheets covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel. If your dough is already dry or cracked, lightly misting it with water can help soften it. Always brush gently with melted butter to avoid ripping. Avoid overhandling and use a sharp knife when cutting the sheets to maintain clean edges and smooth rolling.
Do these feta rolls need to be served warm?
Feta rolls are best served warm when the phyllo is crisp and the cheese is slightly softened, but they can be made ahead and reheated. If preparing in advance, bake them fully, cool completely, and store in an airtight container. Reheat in a 355°F (180°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the phyllo soggy. The honey should be drizzled just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze unbaked rolls for later?
Yes, unbaked feta rolls freeze very well. Arrange the spirals on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, place the frozen rolls directly in a muffin tin, brush with melted butter, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and bake without thawing—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
How do I keep feta rolls crispy after baking?
Avoid covering them while they are still warm, as trapped steam will soften the phyllo. Let them cool on a wire rack instead of a plate to allow air circulation. Store leftovers uncovered at room temperature for a few hours or loosely tented with foil. For longer storage, refrigerate and re-crisp in the oven at 355°F (180°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. Do not microwave, as it will soften the delicate layers.
Is there a way to make these feta rolls sweeter for dessert?
Increase the amount of honey used for drizzling and consider adding a touch of cinnamon or orange zest to the cheese filling. You can also mix in a small amount of ricotta for creaminess and balance the saltiness of the feta. Chopped walnuts or pistachios make a great addition. A final dusting of powdered sugar or another drizzle of warm honey after baking enhances the sweet presentation.
Can I add herbs or spices?
Feta rolls can be enhanced with herbs like chopped fresh dill, mint, parsley, or thyme for a more savory flavor. A pinch of ground black pepper, chili flakes, or za’atar also works well. Mix the herbs or spices directly into the feta before rolling.
What type of phyllo dough is best for feta rolls?
Use standard #4 thickness phyllo dough for feta rolls, which is the most commonly available in grocery stores and offers the right balance of crispness and flexibility. Thinner dough may tear too easily, while thicker “country-style” phyllo may be too dense and won’t yield the delicate layers characteristic of this recipe. Always thaw frozen phyllo in the refrigerator overnight and let it come to room temperature before unrolling to avoid cracking.
Can I make vegan feta rolls?
Use store-bought vegan phyllo dough (most are naturally vegan) and replace the butter with olive oil or vegan margarine. For the filling, choose a plant-based feta cheese, many of which are coconut oil- or tofu-based, with a similar texture and tang. Omit the honey and drizzle agave syrup or maple syrup instead for sweetness.
