If you’re in search of the perfect holiday appetizer that boasts both elegance and effortless preparation, look no further than these Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans. The wonderful blend of creamy brie cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans atop roasted sweet potatoes creates a dish that appeals to all the senses. Imagine serving these vibrant, bite-sized delights at your Thanksgiving dinner or Christmas party, captivating your guests with their alluring colors and delightful flavors. Not only are they visually appealing, they also deliver a burst of taste that balances sweetness, creaminess, and crunch in every mouthful.
As we gather with loved ones during the festive season, it’s the little things that make a big difference, and these sweet potato rounds are just that. They are simple to prepare, offering a stress-free way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have a platter adorned with these delicious rounds that are sure to disappear quickly. Let’s discover how to prepare this dish that’s perfect for sharing and enjoying in the company of family and friends. Your taste buds are in for a treat with these Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans
- Make ahead: Prep the sweet potatoes earlier in the day or the night before to save time.
- Flavor explosion: The combination of brie, tart cranberries, and toasty pecans creates a wonderfully complex taste.
- Visually stunning: The vibrant colors of the sweet potato rounds paired with toppings make for an eye-catching presentation.
- Perfectly portioned: These bite-sized appetizers are ideal for mingling at any gathering.
- Diet-friendly: Gluten-free and adaptable for different dietary needs.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process for your Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to the desired temperature of 400°F (200°C). A good-quality baking sheet is essential, preferably lined with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and even roasting. Having a sharp knife will facilitate slicing the sweet potatoes into perfect ¼-inch rounds—uniformity is key for even cooking. Additionally, a large mixing bowl will come in handy for seasoning the sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring they are properly coated before roasting.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz brie cheese, sliced
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped or whole for garnish
- Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. Slicing them into ¼-inch thick rounds ensures that they roast evenly. Arrange these circles neatly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece for even heat circulation. This step is crucial to achieving the desired tenderness and light caramelization that brings out the sweetness of the potatoes.
Step 2: Season and Roast
Next, drizzle olive oil over the sweet potato rounds, and use your hands to toss them gently but thoroughly, ensuring each piece is coated. Sprinkle salt and pepper liberally for added flavor. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the rounds halfway through. This flip is essential for a uniform cook and will help develop the lovely caramelization on both sides.
Step 3: Add the Brie
Once the sweet potatoes are tender and starting to brown, it’s time to bring in the star ingredient—brie cheese. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully place a slice of brie on top of each sweet potato round. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This short bake will cause the brie to melt into a creamy, gooey delight, beautifully complementing the sweet potato.
Step 4: Top and Serve
When the brie has melted to perfection, take the baking sheet out of the oven once again! Now it’s time to add the finishing touches. Spoon a generous amount of dried cranberries over each round followed by toasted pecans for that delightful crunch. If you desire a fresh herbal note, a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme will elevate the flavor profile beautifully. Serve these glorious rounds warm and watch them disappear!
Variations
- Protein: Add crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch or thin slices of smoked turkey for a heartier option.
- Vegetables: Top with sautéed spinach or a smear of garlic hummus for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkled on the sweet potatoes before roasting for a warm holiday flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure to choose ripe, firm sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven for crispy edges.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these sweet potato rounds with a lightly sparkling cider or a festive punch for the ultimate holiday experience.
- They make a great addition to a cheese platter, surrounded by assorted cheeses, fruits, and nuts.
Tips
- To save time, you can slice your sweet potatoes ahead of time and store them in water in the fridge to prevent browning.
- Using a mix of whole pecans and chopped pecans for garnishing can add both visual appeal and texture.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can pre-roast the sweet potato rounds and assemble them with cheese and toppings just before serving.
Can I use another type of cheese instead of brie?
Absolutely! Camembert or goat cheese are excellent alternatives.
Are these suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this vegan, substitute the brie with a plant-based cheese and use a maple syrup drizzle for sweetness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate a sprinkle of chili flakes or drizzleSome Sriracha over the tops before serving for a spicy twist.
Conclusion
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are sure to impress at your next gathering, delivering not only on taste but also on presentation. Easy to make and delightful to eat, they embody everything we love about festive appetizers. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat your guests to a flavorful experience that they won’t forget. Don’t forget to share your experience and any personalized variations you make in the comments below!
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Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Perfect holiday appetizer with creamy brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans atop roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz brie cheese, sliced
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped or whole for garnish
- Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. Slicing them into ¼-inch thick rounds ensures that they roast evenly. Arrange these circles neatly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece for even heat circulation.
- Next, drizzle olive oil over the sweet potato rounds, and use your hands to toss them gently but thoroughly, ensuring each piece is coated. Sprinkle salt and pepper liberally for added flavor. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the rounds halfway through.
- Once the sweet potatoes are tender and starting to brown, it’s time to bring in the star ingredient—brie cheese. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully place a slice of brie on top of each sweet potato round. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- When the brie has melted to perfection, take the baking sheet out of the oven once again! Now it’s time to add the finishing touches. Spoon a generous amount of dried cranberries over each round followed by toasted pecans for that delightful crunch.
Notes
To make this dish vegan, substitute the brie with a plant-based cheese and use a maple syrup drizzle for sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 4 g