Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans: A Cozy 30-Minute Appetizer
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are delightful, bite-sized treats that combine the creaminess of brie, the sweetness of cranberries, and the crunch of pecans on a tender sweet potato round. This quick and easy recipe not only makes a beautiful presentation but also offers a delightful flavor combination, making it a perfect appetizer or snack for any gathering.
Why you’ll love it
These sweet potato rounds are not just delicious; they are also packed with benefits. Sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, helping to boost your immune system and support overall health. Brie cheese brings a rich, creamy texture, while cranberries add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. Toasted pecans provide a satisfying crunch, adding healthy fats to the mix. With this tasty treat, you get a flavorful and nutritious option that is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz brie cheese, sliced
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped or whole for garnish
- Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Substitutions & key variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences:
- Sweet Potatoes: You can substitute with regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes offer a unique sweetness.
- Brie Cheese: If brie is unavailable, you can use other soft cheeses like camembert or goat cheese.
- Nuts: Instead of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used for a different flavor and texture.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be omitted or replaced with parsley for a different taste.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help to crisp up the sweet potatoes and melt the brie perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds. Make sure they are even in thickness for uniform cooking. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat the potatoes in oil and seasoning. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 4: Add Brie Cheese
Once the sweet potato rounds are roasted, remove them from the oven. Place a slice of brie cheese on top of each sweet potato round. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted beautifully.
Step 5: Top and Serve
After baking, remove the rounds from the oven. Sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted pecans generously on top. For an extra touch of flavor and color, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme. Serve warm and enjoy!
Success tips
- Temperature: Keep a close eye on the sweet potatoes; cooking times may vary based on thickness.
- Texture: You want the sweet potatoes to be soft but still hold their shape. Make sure they aren’t overcooked or they may become mushy.
- Common mistakes: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can steam the sweet potatoes rather than roast them, preventing them from becoming crispy.
How to serve
These sweet potato rounds can be served on a platter as a warm appetizer or snack. They pair nicely with festive gatherings, holiday dinners, or even as part of a game-day spread. You can also enjoy them as a side dish alongside a protein for a wholesome meal.
Storage & reheating
To store any leftovers, place the sweet potato rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Microwave if you’re short on time, though this may not retain the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these sweet potato rounds ahead of time?
Yes, you can slice and season the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and roast them when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the toppings. Other cheeses, fruits, or even a balsamic glaze can work wonders.
3. Are these sweet potato rounds gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making these rounds suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
4. How can I make these rounds vegan?
To make a vegan version, use a plant-based cheese alternative instead of brie and skip the honey or pecans if allergic.
5. Can I freeze these rounds?
It’s best to eat them fresh, but if you must freeze them, do so before adding the toppings. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
Sweet potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates and essential nutrients. Pairing them with nuts and cheese enhances protein content, making these rounds not just tasty but also filling and nutritious.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are an easy yet impressive dish that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures makes them a hit at any gathering. Don’t forget to try them out for your next event and take your appetizer game to the next level!
Links to related recipes
- Sweet Potato Casserole
- Brie and Apple Tart
- Cranberry Spinach Salad
- Roasted Pecans Recipe
- Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Rounds
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 6 oz brie cheese, sliced
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped or whole for garnish Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds, ensuring uniform thickness.
- Arrange the sweet potato rounds in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Roasting
- Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
Topping
- Once the sweet potato rounds are roasted, remove from the oven and place a slice of brie cheese on each round.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
Serving
- After baking, remove the rounds from the oven and sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted pecans on top.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme and serve warm.