As the aroma of roasting sweet potatoes fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel the rush of holiday cheer. These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are a delightful reminder that festive gatherings can be elegant yet effortlessly simple. Layering creamy brie atop tender sweet potatoes creates a dish that is not only visually stunning but also a true crowd-pleaser. With the added crunch of pecans and the tartness of cranberries, each bite provides an irresistible balance of flavors. Plus, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for those busy holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting friends for Thanksgiving or celebrating Christmas with family, these savory bites will surely become a staple on your appetizer table. Ready to discover how to create these mouthwatering rounds? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why are these Sweet Potato Rounds irresistible?
Irresistible Elegance: These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans elevate any holiday table with minimal effort.
Flavor Harmony: The creamy brie perfectly pairs with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and the tangy bite of cranberries, creating a symphony of flavors.
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a simple preparation process, you can impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy them as an appetizer, or incorporate into a festive charcuterie board alongside Sweet Cream Cheese or Spanish Chorizo Potato delights for a diverse spread.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or Christmas, these rounds are sure to be a hit, leaving everyone asking for the recipe!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Ingredients
For the Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet Potatoes – The flavorful base that provides natural sweetness and a tender texture when roasted. Consider using butternut squash for a different flavor twist!
- Olive Oil – Drizzled to enhance sweetness and achieve a golden exterior. Avocado oil works well as a substitute if preferred.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; brings out all the flavors beautifully. Use to taste, no substitutions needed.
For the Topping
- Brie Cheese – Adds a creamy richness that melts beautifully on top of the rounds. Camembert or cream cheese can serve as alternatives if necessary.
- Dried Cranberries – Contributes tartness and sweetness that contrasts delightfully with the savory brie. Fresh cranberries can replace them, but they are tangier—consider sweetening them first.
- Toasted Pecans – Imparts a lovely crunch and nutty flavor; a perfect match for the sweet potatoes. Walnuts or pistachios can also be used for a different texture.
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (optional) – An aromatic garnish that enhances presentation and flavor profile. Feel free to use any fresh herb, such as parsley, for a vibrant touch.
Dive into creating these delightful Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, and let every bite take you to festive bliss!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. This is essential for achieving those perfectly roasted sweet potato rounds that will serve as the delightful base for your Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then slice them into ¼-inch rounds. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even roasting, and arrange the rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This step is key for allowing each sweet potato piece to caramelize beautifully when roasted.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle the sliced sweet potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss the rounds to ensure they are evenly coated in the oil and seasoning. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping the rounds halfway through, until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 4: Add the Brie
Once the sweet potato rounds are beautifully roasted, remove them from the oven. Top each round generously with a slice of creamy brie cheese, allowing it to melt perfectly into the sweet potato. Return the baking sheet to the oven for about 5 minutes, until the brie is gooey and slightly bubbly.
Step 5: Top and Garnish
After the brie has melted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sweet potato rounds cool for just a moment. Spoon dried cranberries atop each melted brie round, followed by a sprinkle of toasted pecans for that delightful crunch. For an aromatic finish, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm to impress your guests!
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Rounds
- Prep in Advance: Make your Sweet Potato Rounds ahead of time—roast them, store in the fridge, and reheat before adding the toppings.
- Even Cooking: Slice your sweet potatoes to the same thickness (¼ inch) for consistent doneness and perfect caramelization during roasting.
- Perfectly Melty Brie: Keep an eye on your brie; too long in the oven can cause it to harden instead of creating a gooey topping.
- Crunch Factor: Ensure your pecans are toasted beforehand to maximize their nutty flavor and add that satisfying crunch to your appetizer.
- Herb Swap: If you prefer a different flavor profile, feel free to substitute fresh rosemary or thyme for parsley, or leave them out entirely!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holidays! You can roast the sweet potato rounds up to 24 hours in advance and simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. To maintain their delicious quality, reheat the rounds at 350°F until warmed through before adding the brie, which should be topped just prior to serving. The brie can be added and melted in the oven just 5 minutes before you’re ready to impress your guests with these elegant bites. This help you enjoy a stress-free holiday gathering while still serving up these delightful Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to make these Sweet Potato Rounds your own!
- Dairy-Free: Swap brie for cashew cream or goat cheese for a creamy, non-dairy alternative.
- Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit altogether for a nut-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for an unexpected spicy twist.
- Sweet & Savory: Substitute dried cranberries with maple-glazed pecans or walnuts for extra sweetness.
- Flavor Boost: Mix in some caramelized onions or sautéed garlic for an extra layer of flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like fresh basil or chives instead of rosemary or thyme for a unique twist.
- Cheese Variety: Feel adventurous by using a smoky Gouda or tangy feta cheese as a flavorful alternative to brie.
- Additional Toppings: Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a scoop of cranberry salsa for a delightful contrast!
These variations can elevate your Sweet Potato Rounds to new heights, making them an even more memorable addition to your holiday table. For more festive inspiration, don’t forget to check out our recipes for Sweet Cozy Jam or Ground Turkey Sweet dishes!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans
Enhance your festive meal with delightful side dishes and accompaniments that resonate with the warm flavors of your appetizers.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized crunch of Brussels sprouts complements the creamy brie, adding a delightful bitterness.
- Gingered Carrot Soup: This smooth, spiced soup brings warmth and richness, perfectly contrasting the sweet and tangy bites of the rounds.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with tart apples and toasted nuts brings brightness and crunch, balancing the rich flavors of sweet potatoes.
- Savory Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs offers a hearty, wholesome side that pairs seamlessly with the richness of the brie.
- Herbed Dinner Rolls: Soft and warm rolls are perfect for scooping up any leftovers, embodying the cozy feeling of holiday gatherings.
- Sparkling Cranberry Punch: This refreshing drink with a hint of tartness perfectly complements the sweetness of the appetizer, elevating your holiday table.
- Chocolate-Dipped Fruits: For dessert, serve luscious chocolate-dipped strawberries or orange slices to bring a sweet finish, contrasting the savory flavors of the rounds.
- Baked Camembert: For cheese lovers, a baked camembert with garlic and herbs could entice guests, allowing a seamless transition into a cheesy finale.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are cooled completely to maintain texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual servings on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sweet potato rounds in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warm and the brie is melty again.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato rounds in advance and keep them ready for the oven. Refrigerate after roasting and reheat before adding toppings for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans Recipe FAQs
What type of sweet potatoes should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth, avoiding any that have soft spots or dark blemishes. The size can vary, but I recommend using medium-sized ones for a more uniform cooking time. You can also use butternut squash for an interesting flavor twist!
How should I store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds?
After enjoying your delicious Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them up to help maintain their texture.
Can these Sweet Potato Rounds be frozen?
Yes! You can freeze your Sweet Potato Rounds for up to 2 months. To do this, place the cooked rounds on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if the sweet potatoes aren’t caramelizing in the oven?
If your sweet potatoes aren’t achieving that lovely caramelized color, there could be a few reasons. First, make sure they are spaced out on the baking sheet and not overcrowded; this allows for better air circulation. Also, ensure that you’re using enough olive oil to coat them evenly and adjusting the oven temperature if necessary, as different ovens can vary in performance. Remember to flip them halfway through roasting for even cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly! The ingredients used are all plant-based except for brie cheese, which you can substitute with a plant-based cheese option. Just be sure to check for any additional dietary considerations like nuts if you have guests with allergies.
What can I do to make the rounds more festive?
The more, the merrier! To make these Sweet Potato Rounds even more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon to the sweet potato mixture before roasting. Additionally, you can garnish with pomegranate seeds or orange zest after topping with brie for a burst of holiday color and flavor!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans Bliss
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 rounds and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, toss to coat evenly, then roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from oven and top each round with brie cheese, returning to the oven for 5 minutes until melted.
- Remove from oven, add cranberries and pecans on top, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
