The warm, inviting scent of roasted sweet potatoes filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations. These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are the perfect appetizer that transforms any get-together into a culinary delight. With their blend of creamy brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, they strike the ideal balance of flavors and textures—elegant yet effortless. Plus, with a quick prep time, they’re perfect for busy holiday hosts looking to impress without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re serving them at Thanksgiving dinner or a casual Christmas gathering, these delightful bites will not only elevate your spread but also become a memorable crowd-pleaser. Ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this recipe together!
Why are Sweet Potato Rounds a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor Combination: The creamy brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans blend seamlessly on the sweet potato base, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have an elegant appetizer ready in no time, perfect for busy holiday hosts.
Versatile Serving Options: These sweet potato rounds are perfect for any festive gathering, from Thanksgiving to Christmas, and pair beautifully with light salads or other finger foods.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast the sweet potato rounds in advance for easy preparation, allowing you to focus on entertaining your guests.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Everyone loves a festive bite-sized treat, and these rounds will undoubtedly have your family and friends coming back for more!
Treat yourself and your guests to something special, and don’t forget to check out my Flavorful Sweet Potato soup for a cozy addition to your holiday spread!
Sweet Potato Rounds Ingredients
For the Base
- Sweet Potatoes – Provides structure and natural sweetness; try butternut squash for a similar texture.
- Olive Oil – Essential for crispy edges; avocado oil makes a great substitute.
- Salt and Pepper – Elevates flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
For the Topping
- Brie Cheese – Adds rich creaminess that melts beautifully; camembert can also be used for a different flavor.
- Dried Cranberries – Offers tartness and beautiful color contrast; fresh cranberries may require cooking.
- Toasted Pecans – Introduces delightful crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts or sunflower seeds work for nut-free versions.
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (optional) – Garnish for an herbal touch that brightens flavors.
These Sweet Potato Rounds are the ultimate holiday appetizer, bringing joy and flavor to any festive table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even roasting. This preparation will ensure your Sweet Potato Rounds come out perfectly every time, with crispy edges and a delightful caramelized flavor.
Step 2: Slice the Sweet Potatoes
Wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even baking. Arrange the rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece so they can roast properly without steaming. The vibrant orange color will begin to shine!
Step 3: Season the Rounds
Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the sweet potato rounds. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste, then toss gently to coat each round evenly. This seasoning will enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Roast the rounds in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 4: Add the Brie
Once the sweet potato rounds are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and top each round with a slice of creamy brie cheese. This addition will melt beautifully, adding a luxurious touch. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the brie has melted and is bubbling slightly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the Sweet Potato Rounds from the oven and promptly sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted pecans over the melted brie. For a fresh finish, garnish with chopped rosemary or thyme if desired. Serve these stunning bites warm, and watch as your guests delight in this exquisite holiday appetizer that beautifully combines flavors and textures.
Sweet Potato Rounds Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize these Sweet Potato Rounds to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Cheese Swap: Replace brie with camembert or goat cheese for a different flavor nuance. Each brings its own special touch!
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Nut Alternatives: Use walnuts or sunflower seeds in place of pecans for a nut-free option. The crunchy texture remains delightful either way.
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for an unexpected sweet contrast that enhances the overall deliciousness of the rounds. It’s like a sweet hug!
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or sage instead of rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist. Their distinct aromas will elevate your appetizer’s appeal.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for those who love a little heat in their bites. It adds a surprising zing!
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Fruit Fusion: Try topping with figs or apricots for a unique fruity twist instead of cranberries. They pair nicely with the creamy cheese!
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Crispy Topping: Sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs mixed with herbs before adding the cheese for an added crunch. It’s an extra layer of texture that’s simply irresistible!
These variations not only emphasize the versatility of these Sweet Potato Rounds but also complement any holiday table beautifully. And if you’re still in the mood for sweet potatoes, consider trying my Flavorful Sweet Potato soup for another cozy dish this season!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans
Elevate your festive gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of these elegant bites.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth and buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the sweet potato rounds beautifully, creating a comforting side dish.
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Light Herb Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, lemon vinaigrette, and herbs will cleanse the palate, balancing the richness of the brie.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These savory, caramelized bites bring a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor, providing a wonderful contrast.
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Apple Cider Sangria: This refreshing drink, infused with seasonal fruits and spices, enhances the warm, inviting flavors of your appetizer.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots will echo the flavors of the sweet potato rounds and add a vibrant splash of color to your table.
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Pecan Pie: Why not end your meal with a slice of this classic dessert? Its nutty warmth will resonate with the crunchy pecans in the appetizer.
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Cheese Platter: Offering a variety of cheeses alongside assorted crackers and fruits will keep the cheese lovers happy and expanding the flavor profiles available for your guests.
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Sparkling Water: A light, fizzy drink can cleanse the palate between bites, making this a perfect thirst-quencher during your gathering.
With these enticing options, your Sweet Potato Rounds will shine even brighter as part of a festive feast!
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Rounds
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Even Slicing: Make sure to slice your sweet potatoes uniformly for consistent cooking. Thicker rounds may not soften as well as thinner ones.
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Parchment Paper: Don’t skip the parchment paper! It prevents the rounds from sticking and helps achieve that coveted crispiness.
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Reheating Rounds: If you’re making these in advance, roast the sweet potato rounds and store in an airtight container. Reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes before adding toppings.
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Cranberry Care: If cranberries fall off while serving, simply pop them back on. Remember, rustic charm is part of the appeal!
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Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like camembert or goat cheese for your Sweet Potato Rounds. Each will bring a unique flavor twist that your guests will love!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Rounds
Fridge: Store any leftover Sweet Potato Rounds in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack or second serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the rounds again, reheat them from the fridge at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or 15 minutes from the freezer, until heated through.
Make-Ahead: Prepare Sweet Potato Rounds ahead of time and keep them in the fridge before baking for a festive gathering. This allows you to focus on your guests when the time comes!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the festive flavors without the last-minute rush! You can roast the sweet potato rounds up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their crispiness, reheat the rounds in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before adding the toppings. For an extra touch, prepare the brie, cranberries, and pecans ahead of time and keep them in separate containers. When it’s time to serve, simply top the reheated rounds with warm brie and the other toppings for that delightful, fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes?
When selecting sweet potatoes, look for smooth skin without any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel firm and not have any soft spots. A good sweet potato should be free of cracks and have a bright orange color, indicating ripeness.
How do I store leftover sweet potato rounds?
Store any leftover Sweet Potato Rounds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. This keeps them fresh for a quick snack or as a side for another meal!
Can I freeze sweet potato rounds? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the roasted sweet potato rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-friendly bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
What if my cheese doesn’t melt properly on the rounds?
If your brie doesn’t melt as expected, it may be due to not slicing it thinly enough or not giving it enough time in the oven. Make sure to slice the brie into thin pieces and allow the rounds to stay in the oven for an additional few minutes, checking regularly until the cheese is bubbly.
Are there any allergy considerations with these sweet potato rounds?
Yes! For those with nut allergies, you can substitute the toasted pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Always check that your cheese and other toppings are safe for your dietary needs. If you’re serving guests, it’s best to inquire about any allergy sensitivities to ensure a delightful experience for everyone!
Can I substitute ingredients in my sweet potato rounds?
Very! You can swap brie for camembert or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for nut-free options, walnuts or sunflower seeds can replace pecans. For a touch of sweetness, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top can elevate your Sweet Potato Rounds. Enjoy experimenting!
Delicious Sweet Potato Rounds: A Festive Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the rounds and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
- Roast the rounds in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Top each round with a slice of brie and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, until bubbling.
- Sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted pecans over the melted brie and garnish with herbs if desired. Serve warm.