Name: Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie: A Festive Flavor Explosion
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Sweet Potatoes; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper (freshly cracked for extra kick); 8 ounces Brie Cheese (or camembert as an alternative); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries (or fresh cranberries cooked down with honey); 1/2 cup Toasted Pecans (or walnuts/pistachios for variety); to taste Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (optional, chives can also be used)

The aroma of roasted sweet potatoes wafting through the kitchen brings back memories of holiday gatherings and laughter. My latest creation, Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, is a delightful treat that perfectly merges elegance and comfort—ideal for your next celebration. These easy yet impressive bites are not only a feast for the eyes but also a deliciously simple way to wow your guests with minimal effort. With a blend of sweet and savory flavors, they’re perfect for any occasion, from Thanksgiving feasts to festive Christmas parties. Plus, they can easily be made ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities! Curious to know how to create this delicious appetizer that everyone will love? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Sweet Potato Rounds So Irresistible?

Elegant Presentation: These stunning Sweet Potato Rounds instantly elevate any holiday spread, making you look like a culinary rockstar!

Mouthwatering Flavors: The luscious brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans create a delightful flavor explosion that your guests won’t forget.

Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these gourmet bites without breaking a sweat.

Make-Ahead Convenience: You can roast the sweet potatoes in advance and assemble them just before serving, saving you time during busy holiday gatherings.

Versatile Recipe: Feel free to swap the brie for goat cheese or mix in your favorite nuts; the possibilities are endless!

Prepare to impress your guests with this crowd-pleaser that complements your favorite holiday appetizers, like Cheesy Mashed Potato or Baked Potato Soup.

Sweet Potato Rounds Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything you need for this tasty treat!

For the Sweet Potato Rounds

Sweet Potatoes – The star of the dish, providing a sweet, sturdy base that pairs perfectly with toppings.
Olive Oil – Essential for roasting to get that perfect crispy exterior and tender inside.
Salt and Pepper – Key seasonings that enhance the flavors of the sweet potatoes; opt for freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick.

For the Toppings

Brie Cheese – Offers a rich, creamy layer that melts beautifully over the warm sweet potatoes; camembert is a lovely alternative if you wish.
Dried Cranberries – Adds a pop of tart sweetness, beautifully balancing the richness of the brie; fresh cranberries can work if cooked down with honey first.
Toasted Pecans – Brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to swap in walnuts or pistachios for variety.
Fresh Rosemary or Thyme – Optional herbs that add an aromatic freshness; chives can provide a milder onion flavor if preferred.

This delightful Sweet Potato Rounds recipe is the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will make your holiday gathering unforgettable!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Rounds

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Sweet Potato Rounds will crisp up nicely. This preparation step is essential for easy cleanup and achieving that perfect texture on your sweet potatoes.

Step 2: Slice the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds for even cooking. Arrange the rounds in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for airflow. This organization will help them roast evenly, creating delectable bites.

Step 3: Season the Rounds
Drizzle the sweet potato rounds generously with olive oil, and sprinkle salt and freshly cracked pepper over them. Using your hands or a spatula, toss the rounds gently to ensure each piece is well-coated. This step enhances the natural sweetness while promoting crispy edges as they roast.

Step 4: Roast Until Tender
Place the seasoned sweet potato rounds in the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, flip the rounds using tongs to ensure even cooking and caramelization. Look for them to become tender and slightly golden; they will smell heavenly as they roast to perfection.

Step 5: Add the Brie
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove them from the oven and immediately place a slice of brie cheese atop each round. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the brie melts beautifully, creating a luscious layer atop your Sweet Potato Rounds.

Step 6: Finish with Toppings
After the brie has melted, take the sweet potato rounds out of the oven and promptly sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted pecans on top. If you like, garnish with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch. These finishing touches bring delightful texture and flavor to your festive appetizer.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the Sweet Potato Rounds cool for a few moments, then serve them warm to your guests. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, showcasing the beautiful contrast of creamy brie, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Watch your loved ones savor every bite of these festive delights!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining! You can roast the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container. To maintain their quality, let them cool completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, then add the brie and return to the oven for the final melt, about 5 minutes. This method ensures that your appetizers are just as delicious and festive when served, saving you valuable time on busy holiday nights!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Rounds

Fridge: Store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their flavors and textures.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Sweet Potato Rounds before adding toppings. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method ensures a lovely crispness, making them just as delicious as when freshly made.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can roast the sweet potatoes in advance and assemble them with brie and toppings right before serving, saving time during busy holiday gatherings.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Rounds

Perfect Thickness: Slice sweet potatoes into uniform ¼-inch rounds to ensure even cooking and consistent texture for your Sweet Potato Rounds.
Don’t Rush the Roasting: Allow sufficient time for roasting; undercooked potatoes won’t caramelize properly, resulting in a less flavorful bite.
Achieve Crispy Edges: Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking, allowing the edges of the sweet potatoes to get wonderfully crispy.
Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to swap in different cheeses like goat cheese or camembert for unique twists on flavor in your Sweet Potato Rounds.
Add Sweetness: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the rounds right before serving for an extra layer of richness and sweetness.

Sweet Potato Rounds Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to take your Sweet Potato Rounds to the next level by personalizing these tasty bites! The combinations are endless and oh-so-delicious.

Dairy-Free: Replace brie with a creamy vegan cheese for a plant-based twist that still offers a delightful texture.
Experiment with cashew-based cheeses, which melt beautifully and offer the creaminess you crave!
Flavor Packed: Add smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the olive oil for a hint of smoky flavor and heat.
A touch of spice can elevate these sweet and savory rounds, creating a delightful dance of flavors!
Crunchy Alternatives: Swap toasted pecans for crispy fried onions or toasted sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
This variation introduces a fun textural contrast, making every bite uniquely satisfying!
Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely or replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy finish without allergens.
This alteration keeps the flavor profile intact while catering to those with nut sensitivities!
Sweet Twist: Use maple syrup-glazed walnuts or add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
This twist brings an indulgent level of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy brie!
Herbaceous Enhancements: Swap rosemary and thyme for fresh basil or cilantro for a brighter herbaceous flavor.
Herbs can bring a refreshing touch to this dish, enhancing its overall appeal and making it unique!
Tart Swaps: Replace dried cranberries with tart cherries or fresh raspberries for a striking flavor contrast.
These substitutions can introduce an exciting burst of tanginess that pairs exceptionally well with the sweetness of the potatoes!

Enhance your holiday appetizer spread by also considering balancing your platter with a delightful soup, like Broccoli Potato Cheese or a creamy Sausage Potato Soup. Each tweak can contribute to a memorable feast that everyone will love!

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans

Elevate your holiday gathering by complementing these delightful bites with a selection of scrumptious side dishes and drinks that provide a symphony of flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of buttery mashed potatoes enhances the savory and sweet elements of the rounds, creating a comforting side.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy, caramelized sprouts add a savory crunch and a beautiful contrast to the creamy brie and sweet cranberries.
Fresh Spinach Salad: A refreshing salad with tangy vinaigrette brings brightness that balances the richness of sweet potato rounds.
Cheese Board: Create a cheese platter featuring sharp and soft cheeses for guests to explore various textures alongside your sweet potato rounds.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: This elegant appetizer offers a savory, crispy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy elements of the rounds.
Sparkling Apple Cider: A light, bubbly drink that complements the sweetness of the cranberries and enriches the festive atmosphere.
Pumpkin Cheesecake: End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of creamy pumpkin cheesecake, tying together holiday flavors while delighting your guests.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce: A tangy twist on the traditional cranberry sauce serves as a refreshing counterpart, enhancing the flavors of both the rounds and your main courses.

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm without any dark spots or blemishes. They should have smooth skin and be free from soft patches. The sweetest and most flavorful sweet potatoes usually have a vibrant orange color.

How long can I store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds?
Leftover Sweet Potato Rounds can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that delightful crispiness before serving.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Rounds?
Yes! To freeze your Sweet Potato Rounds, it’s best to do so before adding any toppings. Wrap each round tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen, adding toppings afterward!

What if my sweet potatoes are not cooking evenly?
No worries! If your sweet potatoes aren’t cooking evenly, it may be due to uneven slicing. Make sure to cut your rounds into uniform ¼-inch thickness. Additionally, flipping them halfway through roasting ensures even cooking and caramelization.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider with this recipe?
Very! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish gluten-free and vegetarian. However, just be cautious with ingredients like brie, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet. If nut allergies are a concern, consider omitting the pecans or substituting them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.

Can I use other toppings instead of cranberries and pecans?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different toppings. For example, golden raisins or cherries can provide a unique sweetness, and for a savory twist, consider adding sautéed onions or crumbled feta. Don’t hesitate to customize your Sweet Potato Rounds to suit your palate!