While prepping for the holiday season, I found myself yearning for a simple yet sophisticated bite that would impress my guests without pulling me away from all the laughter and joy. That’s when I stumbled upon these delectable Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans. This recipe is not just an easy party snack; it’s a stunning centerpiece for any Thanksgiving gathering or Christmas celebration! With their perfect combination of creamy brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans layered atop warm roasted sweet potatoes, these rounds steal the show at every gathering. Plus, they’re so effortless to make that you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the festivities. Are you ready to elevate your holiday spread with a delicious twist? Let’s dive in!
Why are Sweet Potato Rounds Irresistible?
Elegance in Every Bite: These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans create a beautiful appetizer that looks as good as it tastes.
Taste Explosion: The sweet and savory harmony of flavors will have your guests coming back for seconds!
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these holiday bites without stress, leaving you free to mingle.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering, these rounds can easily adapt—try swapping brie with feta or adding different nuts like pistachios.
Make Ahead Magic: Prep them in advance and serve warm to maintain that crispy texture. They fit right in next to other appetizers like Healthy Sweet Potato Bars or Lemon Dill Potato Salad with Asparagus.
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base
• Sweet Potatoes – Provides a naturally sweet base; medium-sized sweet potatoes work best but can be replaced with butternut squash for a similar flavor.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in roasting; feel free to substitute avocado oil for a different flavor or higher smoke point.
• Salt and Pepper – Enhances the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes; adjust to your personal taste preference.
For the Toppings
• Brie Cheese – Provides a creamy texture and richness; if you’re looking for a different taste experience, Camembert can be a great alternative.
• Dried Cranberries – Adds a delightful tartness and sweetness; consider using dried cherries for a unique flavor twist.
• Toasted Pecans – Offers an essential crunch and nuttiness; walnuts or pistachios can be suitable substitutes.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional) – Rosemary or thyme can elevate your dish with wonderful fragrance; feel free to skip them or use your favorite herbs.
These delicious Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are sure to impress your guests at your holiday gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and ensures a crispy edge for your sweet potato rounds.
Step 2: Slice Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel the medium-sized sweet potatoes, then slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking. Once sliced, arrange the rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, allowing a little space between them for optimal roasting.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to ensure each round is well coated. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be tender and lightly caramelized when done.
Step 4: Add Brie Cheese
Once the sweet potato rounds are roasted, remove them from the oven and top each one with a slice of creamy brie cheese. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has beautifully melted and is gooey.
Step 5: Finish with Toppings
After baking, take the sweet potato rounds out of the oven. Immediately sprinkle the melted brie-topped rounds with dried cranberries and toasted pecans. If you’d like, garnish with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch. Serve warm and watch these delightful bites disappear!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the sweet potatoes up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the rounds in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispy texture. The brie, cranberries, and pecans can also be prepared ahead; keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to enjoy. Just add the cheese during the last few minutes of reheating, allowing it to melt beautifully over the warm sweet potatoes, delivering that delightful bite without the fuss!
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Rounds
Prep Ahead: Roasting the sweet potatoes a day in advance can save time; just reheat before adding toppings for optimal texture.
Parchment Paper: Always use parchment on your baking sheet to ensure your Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans don’t stick and achieve that coveted crispy edge.
Consistent Slices: Aim for ¼-inch thickness when slicing the sweet potatoes; this helps them cook evenly and offers the best texture in every bite.
Avoid Overcrowding: Space the rounds out on the baking sheet to prevent steaming and promote even roasting—crispiness is key!
Taste Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning according to your preference; a little extra salt can enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans?
Elevate your holiday gathering with delicious accompaniments that perfectly balance the rich flavors of these sweet potato bites.
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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: The smoky, savory flavor of bacon complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a delightful contrast of tastes.
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Simple Arugula Salad: This fresh, peppery salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and a refreshing crunch, making it a perfect palate cleanser.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of creamy mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of your sweet potato rounds.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots drizzled with honey enhance the sweetness while introducing a tender and slightly caramelized element to the meal.
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Mulled Wine: Warm spiced mulled wine will imbue a cozy atmosphere while its fruity notes complement the cranberry topping perfectly.
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Pumpkin Soup: A velvety pumpkin soup brings a comforting warmth and earthiness that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the sweet potato rounds.
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Cheese and Charcuterie Board: A spread of assorted cheeses, salami, and olives allows guests to nibble alongside the sweet potato rounds, enhancing the festive feel of your gathering.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet finish, these berries add a touch of elegance, balancing out the savory components of the meal with their juicy freshness.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans
Fridge: Store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them unassembled for best texture.
Freezer: If you need to freeze them, wrap the roasted sweet potato rounds tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Reheating: To maintain crispness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Top with fresh cranberries and pecans just before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can roast the sweet potatoes a day prior, then assemble with cheese and toppings just before serving for the freshest taste!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans Variations
Customize these delightful bites to create your perfect holiday appetizer!
- Dairy-Free: Swap brie with a nut-based cheese for a creamy, non-dairy alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds in place of pecans for a crunchy texture without the nuts.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top for a delightful heat that dances with the sweetness.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with thyme or basil infused olive oil; it adds a fresh, aromatic flavor to complement the sweet potatoes.
- Savory Twist: Replace cranberries with caramelized onions for a rich, savory version that pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of brie.
- Sweet Expansion: Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey after baking for an extra burst of sweetness that ties the flavors together.
- Roasted Veggie Medley: Include sliced roasted beet or parsnip rounds alongside the sweet potatoes for a colorful and nutritious addition.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that all ingredients used, including any toppings, are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
With these variations, you can make your Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans a true reflection of your taste! Whether you’re adding a spicy twist or going nut-free, your friends and family will be charmed. And for more inspiration, consider pairing them with other festive creations like Chicken Roasted Potatoes or the delightful Ravioli with Corn Zucchini and Garlic Butter Sauce.
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes?
When selecting sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft to the touch. Medium-sized sweet potatoes are best for this recipe, but butternut squash can be a delightful alternative if needed.
How do I store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds?
Store any leftover Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For optimal texture, I recommend keeping the sweet potato rounds unassembled until you’re ready to serve. This way, they’ll maintain their delightful crispness!
Can I freeze Sweet Potato Rounds?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the roasted sweet potato rounds tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat directly from frozen for a quick and convenient appetizer.
What if my sweet potato rounds are not crispy?
If your sweet potato rounds don’t turn out crispy, ensure they are well spaced on the baking sheet when roasting. Also, avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting. For extra crispiness, try increasing the roasting time slightly—just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Are these Sweet Potato Rounds safe for pets?
While sweet potatoes are generally safe for dogs and cats in small amounts, the toppings used in this recipe—like brie and cranberries—may not be suitable for your furry friends. It’s best to serve them the plain roasted sweet potatoes as a treat, but avoid sharing the assembled rounds with them.
Can I make Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans ahead of time?
Definitely! You can roast the sweet potatoes the day before. Store them in the fridge and assemble the rounds with the brie and toppings just before guests arrive. This way, you’ll have fresh, delicious bites ready to impress without the last-minute rush!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Top each roasted round with a slice of brie cheese and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until melted.
- Sprinkle the rounds with dried cranberries and toasted pecans, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
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