Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a crunchy, cheesy treat with just the right amount of spicy sweetness. These little rolls are filled with creamy feta cheese, baked until golden, and then drizzled with a sticky, flavorful chili honey that gives them a fun kick. The contrast between the crispy outside and soft, tangy inside makes them totally addictive.
I love making these rolls when I want a snack that feels a bit special but is still super easy to whip up. The chili honey is a game changer — it’s sweet but has a gentle heat that pairs perfectly with the salty feta. I usually keep a jar of chili honey handy so I can drizzle it on just about anything that needs a little extra flavor.
These rolls are great for parties or just to enjoy with friends on a relaxed night in. I often serve them with a simple salad or some fresh veggies, but honestly, I’m just as happy eating them straight from the baking tray. They’re one of those dishes that disappear quickly once everyone starts tasting, so I always make a big batch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: This is the main flavor in the rolls — salty and tangy. If you want a milder taste, try mixing feta with cream cheese for creaminess and less tang. For a dairy-free option, use a firm vegan cheese that melts well.
Spring Roll Wrappers or Phyllo Sheets: Both work great for creating a crispy outside. I often use spring roll wrappers for a lighter crunch. Phyllo can be a bit more delicate but adds flakiness. Rice paper wrappers can also be substituted, just make sure to brush well with oil.
Chili Honey: This sweet and spicy drizzle is key. If you don’t have chili flakes, fresh chilies or a dash of hot sauce work well. For a savory twist, add soy sauce or tamari as suggested. You can swap honey for maple syrup if you prefer a vegan version.
Sesame Seeds: They add texture and a nutty taste on top. Toasted sesame seeds amplify the flavor. If you don’t have sesame seeds, try poppy seeds or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for crunch.
How to Keep Feta Rolls Crispy When Baking in the Oven?
Crispy rolls come from proper wrapping and oven heat. Here’s how I do it:
- Roll tightly without leaving gaps so filling doesn’t leak and soften the wrapper.
- Brush each roll lightly with egg wash or olive oil on the outside to promote golden crispiness.
- Place rolls seam side down on a lined baking sheet to prevent unrolling and keep them sealed.
- Bake at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C) to help the rolls brown quickly without drying them out.
- Turn rolls halfway through baking to crisp evenly on all sides.
With this method, you get crunchy rolls outside and a warm, creamy cheese center every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for evenly baking the rolls without oil splatters.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps rolls from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Small mixing bowl – for combining the cheese filling smoothly.
- Pastry brush – great for brushing egg or oil on rolls to get a golden, crispy finish.
- Small saucepan – to gently warm and mix the chili honey ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap feta for halloumi – it grills well and adds a firmer, saltier bite inside the rolls.
- Add finely chopped spinach or kale to the cheese mix for extra color and nutrition.
- Mix in some crushed walnuts or pine nuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Try a drizzle of balsamic glaze instead of chili honey for a tangy-sweet twist.
Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rolls:
- 8 spring roll wrappers or phyllo sheets
- 200g (7 oz) feta cheese, cut into sticks
- ½ cup cream cheese (optional, for creamier filling)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing and brushing)
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- Olive oil spray or 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For the Chili Honey:
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari (optional for umami depth)
- ½ tsp rice vinegar or lemon juice (to balance sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble, plus 15-20 minutes to bake the rolls and a few minutes to make the chili honey. Overall, you’ll have delicious, crispy feta rolls ready in about 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the feta cheese, cream cheese (if using), and chopped herbs. Stir gently until everything is mixed but still a bit chunky for nice texture.
3. Roll and Seal:
Lay one spring roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place a cheese stick near one edge, fold the sides over the filling, and roll tightly away from you. Use the beaten egg to seal the edge so the roll stays closed during baking.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Place the rolls seam side down on your lined baking sheet. Lightly brush each roll with beaten egg or olive oil spray to help them become golden and crispy. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly on top.
5. Bake the Rolls:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning the rolls halfway through to ensure they crisp evenly. Look for a deep golden-brown color and a crunchy texture.
6. Make the Chili Honey:
While the rolls bake, gently warm honey, chili flakes, soy sauce, and vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat. Let the flavors infuse for about 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the baked rolls to a serving plate. Drizzle generously with warm chili honey. Sprinkle with extra chopped herbs and fresh chili slices if you like a little more heat. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious contrast of crunchy rolls and spicy-sweet sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Spring Roll Wrappers or Phyllo Sheets?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge or at room temperature before using. Handle them gently as thawed wrappers can be delicate and tear easily.
Can I Prepare These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Brush with egg or oil just before baking to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
How Do I Store Leftover Feta Rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the rolls soggy.
What Can I Substitute for the Chili Honey?
If you prefer less spice or don’t have chili flakes, try drizzling with plain honey or a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy touch. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor without heat.
