I really enjoy making these crispy baked feta rolls when I want something simple but impressive. I wrap creamy, salty feta in delicate phyllo dough, bake it until perfectly golden and crunchy, then finish it with a drizzle of hot chili honey. The balance of crisp pastry, tangy cheese, and sweet heat makes this recipe one I come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it comes together quickly and uses just a few ingredients. It feels elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a casual snack. I also like that I can customize the herbs or spice level without changing the basic method.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 ounces feta cheese, cut into 10–12 thick sticks
10–12 sheets phyllo dough
1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon dried oregano or dried thyme
1/4 cup hot chili honey, or to taste
Directions
I begin by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. I carefully separate the phyllo sheets and keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to prevent drying.
I lay one sheet of phyllo on a flat surface and lightly brush it with olive oil or melted butter. I sprinkle a small pinch of dried oregano or thyme over the surface, then place one stick of feta near the bottom edge. I fold the sides inward and roll it up tightly into a neat roll.
I repeat this process with the remaining phyllo sheets and feta sticks. I place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with more oil or butter. I bake them for about 18 minutes, until they are golden brown and crisp. Once out of the oven, I drizzle the rolls with hot chili honey and let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually end up with 10–12 feta rolls from this recipe.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 18 minutes
Total time: 33 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add crushed red pepper flakes inside the rolls for extra heat. When I want a brighter flavor, I mix a little lemon zest with the feta before rolling. I also enjoy using fresh herbs like dill or parsley in place of dried herbs when I have them on hand.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I place them in a hot oven for a few minutes until they crisp back up. I avoid reheating in the microwave because it softens the phyllo.
FAQs
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
I like to assemble the rolls a few hours in advance and refrigerate them, then bake them just before serving.
What should I do if my phyllo dries out?
I always keep unused phyllo covered with a damp towel, which helps prevent cracking and tearing.
Is hot chili honey very spicy?
I find it mildly spicy with a sweet finish, and I adjust the amount depending on how much heat I want.
Can I freeze these feta rolls?
I prefer them fresh, but I can freeze the unbaked rolls and bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
What can I serve with these rolls?
I like serving them with a simple salad or as part of a small appetizer spread.
Conclusion
I love how these crispy baked feta rolls deliver big flavor with minimal effort. The flaky phyllo, creamy feta, and sweet-spicy honey come together beautifully, making this recipe one I enjoy serving for gatherings or savoring all on my own.