Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Whipped Goat Cheese, Cranberries, and Pecans

Introduction

Looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s both easy to make and full of flavor? These Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds topped with whipped goat cheese, cranberries, pecans, and a drizzle of honey are the perfect bite-sized treat. With their combination of savory, tangy, sweet, and nutty elements, these bites are sure to impress at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive holiday party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The roasted sweet potato rounds are tender with caramelized edges, while the creamy goat cheese is whipped to perfection with just a hint of rosemary. Topped with crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and a drizzle of honey, these little bites are an irresistible combination of sweet and savory.

These bites are not only delicious but also a breeze to make, with minimal ingredients and a simple preparation process. They’re also versatile, making them ideal for a variety of occasions, from appetizers to side dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large or 2 small sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons milk (any type you prefer)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup toasted pecans, chopped
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• Honey, for drizzling

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a rimmed baking sheet with cooking oil to prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking.

2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated. Lay them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. If necessary, lightly spray the tops of the sweet potato slices with more cooking oil to ensure they crisp up in the oven.

3. Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and roast for 10 minutes. Flip the sweet potato rounds over and continue baking for an additional 8-12 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized around the edges.

4. Whip the Goat Cheese

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, use a stand mixer with the whisk attachment or a handheld mixer to whip the softened goat cheese with milk, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is smooth, fluffy, and easily spreadable.

5. Assemble the Rounds

Once the sweet potato rounds are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spoon about ½ teaspoon of the whipped goat cheese mixture onto each sweet potato round. Top with a sprinkle of chopped pecans and dried cranberries. Drizzle the bites lightly with honey for a touch of sweetness.

6. Serve and Enjoy

These delicious Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds can be served warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect as a party appetizer or as a side dish to accompany your favorite main courses.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Rimmed baking sheet for roasting the sweet potatoes
• Stand mixer or handheld mixer for whipping the goat cheese
• Spatula or spoon for assembling the rounds

Tips and Shortcuts

• Time-Saving Tip: Buy pre-sliced sweet potatoes if available, to save time on prep.
• Toast Your Pecans: To maximize flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
• Use Flavored Goat Cheese: To enhance the flavor even more, try using a flavored goat cheese like honey or herbed goat cheese.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute the goat cheese with vegan cream cheese or a dairy-free spread, and use agave syrup instead of honey.
• Nut-Free Option: Swap the pecans with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
• Different Herbs: Not a fan of rosemary? Swap it with thyme or basil for a different flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely with a recipe this delicious), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Food and Drink Pairings

These sweet potato rounds pair well with a variety of main dishes like roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a hearty fall salad. For drinks, enjoy with a glass of Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. For non-alcoholic options, try pairing these bites with a refreshing sparkling water or iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I prepare the sweet potatoes ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can roast the sweet potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven before adding the toppings.

Q: What other toppings can I use instead of cranberries?
A: Feel free to get creative! Try using pomegranate seeds, dried apricots, or even golden raisins for a twist on the classic cranberry.

Q: Can I make these without the goat cheese?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor.

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.

Call to Action

Love this recipe for Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Whipped Goat Cheese, Cranberries, and Pecans? Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, and make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes that are perfect for any occasion!

Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Whipped Goat Cheese, Cranberries, and Pecans

---

• Author: Mia Martinez
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

 

Enjoy a perfect blend of sweet and savory with Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds topped with whipped goat cheese, cranberries, and pecans—a delicious appetizer or side dish!

---

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large or 2 small sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean and sliced into ¼-inch rounds

4 ounces goat cheese, softened

2 tablespoons milk (any type you prefer)

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

¼ cup toasted pecans, chopped

½ cup dried cranberries

Honey, for drizzling

---

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly spray a rimmed baking sheet with cooking oil.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Lay them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. If needed, lightly spray the tops of the sweet potatoes with more cooking oil.

Bake the Sweet Potatoes:

Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven and roast for 10 minutes. Flip the sweet potato rounds and continue baking for an additional 8-12 minutes, or until they are tender.

Whip the Goat Cheese:

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, use a stand mixer with the whisk attachment or a handheld mixer to whip the softened goat cheese, milk, rosemary, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Rounds:

Once the sweet potato rounds are done, spoon about ½ teaspoon of the whipped goat cheese mixture onto each one. Top with a sprinkle of chopped pecans and dried cranberries, then drizzle lightly with honey.

Serve:

These delicious bites can be served warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings