Name: Sweet Potato Rounds: A Festive Twist for Holiday Appetizers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 large Sweet Potatoes (Can substitute butternut squash); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Avocado oil can be used as a substitute); 1 teaspoon Salt (Add fresh herbs for extra aroma); 1 teaspoon Pepper (Freshly cracked black pepper recommended); 8 ounces Brie Cheese (Camembert can be a delicious alternative); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Fresh cranberries may need cooking to soften); 1/2 cup Toasted Pecans (Walnuts or pistachios can be substituted); Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (Optional for garnish)

As I rummaged through my pantry during the holiday season, sweet potatoes caught my eye, reminding me of the joyful gatherings ahead. That’s when it hit me: why not elevate this humble veggie into the spotlight? Enter my Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans—an elegant holiday appetizer that’s as tasty as it is visually stunning. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s perfect for any festive occasion. Not only are they vegetarian-friendly and effortlessly impressive, but they also deliver delightful contrasts of creamy, sweet, and crunchy flavors in every bite. Trust me, your guests will be reaching for seconds! Are you ready to bring a touch of gourmet flair to your holiday table?

Why Are Sweet Potato Rounds So Special?

Elevated Flavor: These rounds combine sweet, savory, and crunchy elements that create a taste explosion in every bite. The luscious brie melds perfectly with the tart cranberries, offering a gourmet touch ideal for gatherings.

Effortless Preparation: Even novice cooks will find this recipe simple and rewarding, requiring minimal cooking skills and just a handful of ingredients, making it a go-to for stress-free entertaining.

Versatile Serving: Whether you’re spicing up your Thanksgiving feast or looking for elegant snacks for Christmas parties, these sweet potato rounds fit the bill. You could even serve them alongside a hearty Mojo Bowls Sweet salad for a delightful appetizer spread.

Crowd-Pleaser: With each bite being vegetarian-friendly and visually stunning, these rounds are sure to impress your guests—guaranteeing they’ll be back for seconds.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Plus, roast the sweet potatoes in advance, store them, and simply add toppings before your guests arrive to save time. Enjoy the compliments while relaxing with your friends and family!

Sweet Potato Rounds Ingredients

• Perfect for creating your elegant holiday appetizer!

For the Rounds

Sweet Potatoes – The star ingredient; sweet and creamy when roasted, but can be swapped for butternut squash for a twist.
Olive Oil – Adds richness and crispness while roasting; avocado oil works great as a substitute for a higher smoke point.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; consider adding fresh herbs like thyme for extra aroma.
Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; freshly cracked black pepper complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

For the Toppings

Brie Cheese – Melts beautifully on the sweet potato rounds; camembert can make a delicious alternative.
Dried Cranberries – Provide a lovely sweetness and tartness; fresh cranberries may require light cooking to soften their flavor.
Toasted Pecans – Offer a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to swap in walnuts or pistachios based on your preference.
Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (Optional) – For garnish, these herbs lend an aromatic finish that elevates the dish.

Your Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans will be a hit with every guest, so gather your ingredients and get ready to impress!

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 the oven warms up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the sweet potato rounds from sticking and help them achieve a lovely crispiness. A shimmering parchment-lined sheet is key to great roasting!

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 cooking. Once sliced, arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly roasted Sweet Potato Rounds that are tender and delicious.

Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with a good splash of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to ensure each round is well-coated and seasoned. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the rounds are tender and exhibit a tantalizing light caramelization.

Step 4: Add the Brie
Once the sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, carefully remove them from the oven. Top each round with a slice of creamy brie cheese, allowing its richness to complement the sweetness of the potatoes. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, watching for the cheese to melt and become bubbly.

Step 5: Top and Serve
After the brie has melted, take the Sweet Potato Rounds out of the oven. Spoon a generous amount of dried cranberries on top of each round, followed by a sprinkle of toasted pecans for a delicious crunch. Optional: garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme to elevate flavor and presentation, serving warm for a delightful holiday appetizer experience.

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Rounds

Fridge: Store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roasted rounds individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispness.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can roast the sweet potato rounds in advance; simply add toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and delightful!

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Rounds

Slice Evenly: Ensure your sweet potato rounds are of uniform thickness to guarantee even roasting. This prevents some from being undercooked while others may burn.
Oil Wisely: Drizzling olive oil is key for crispiness. Avoid using too much oil, as it can make the rounds soggy rather than crispy.
Watch the Brie: Keep a close eye when melting the brie; overcooking can turn it rubbery instead of creamy. Aim for bubbly perfection!
Layer Toppings: When adding cranberries and pecans, don’t overload each round. Keep toppings balanced for a great bite each time.
Make-Ahead Magic: Roast the sweet potatoes ahead of time and store in the fridge. Simply add the toppings and reheat before your gathering for stress-free entertaining.

With these helpful tips, your Sweet Potato Rounds will shine as a standout appetizer this holiday season!

Sweet Potato Rounds Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Sweet Potato Rounds to make them even more delightful and tailored to your taste!

Nut Swap: Substitute pecans with walnuts or pistachios for a unique crunch. Each nut brings its own flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste.
Cheese Change: For a tangier twist, try using goat cheese or feta instead of brie. Both cheeses will still melt wonderfully while adding a new flavor dimension.
Sweet Boost: Drizzle honey or maple syrup atop the rounds for an extra layer of sweetness. This simple addition elevates the dish, creating a comforting contrast.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary directly with the cranberries for added depth. This fresh touch brightens up the flavors beautifully.
Spicy Option: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before roasting for some heat. This will give the rounds a delightful kick that balances the sweetness.
Veggie Variety: Swap sweet potatoes with roasted butternut squash for a new flavor and texture experience. It offers a slightly different sweetness and a comforting creaminess.
Cranberry Shift: Instead of dried cranberries, use fresh cranberries cooked down with sugar for a more tart flavor profile. This goes perfectly with the richness of brie.
Gourmet Drizzle: Finish with a balsamic glaze before serving to add a sophisticated touch. It enhances both the presentation and flavor, making every bite a gourmet experience.

With these variations, your Sweet Potato Rounds will be anything but ordinary. Try them out and let your guests savor the gourmet touch at your holiday gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans are perfect for making ahead, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without the last-minute rush! You can roast the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, letting them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just before serving, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Top with brie, return to the oven for about 5 minutes to melt, then add your cranberries and pecans before serving. This method ensures that each round remains just as delicious and satisfying, providing you with fabulous appetizers that are ready to impress!

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

Elevate your holiday celebration with perfect pairings that complement the warm, sweet, and savory flavors of these delightful bites.

Crisp Winter Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and a light vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the sweet potato rounds.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider offers a cozy, seasonal drink that enhances the sweet notes of your appetizer.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, garlicky breadsticks introduce a comforting and satisfying texture that pairs well with the creamy brie.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of honey-glazed carrots echoes the sweet potato’s flavors, creating a harmonious side dish.
Festive Red Wine: A fruity red wine, like a light Pinot Noir, adds a touch of elegance and complements the earthy notes of pecans.
Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, a rich chocolate fondue invites guests to indulge in a sweet finale, perfectly contrasting with savory appetizers.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy Brussels sprouts add a crunchy element, sprinkled with parmesan and lemon for zesty brightness.
Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup serves as a cozy primer, echoing the delightful sweetness of the main attraction.
Parmesan Crisps: Serve these savory crisps as a crunchy counterpart, enhancing the overall texture experience of your appetizer spread.
Gingerbread Cookies: For a festive treat, gingerbread cookies offer spiced sweetness that delights and rounds out the holiday meal beautifully.

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, choose medium-sized, firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. Look for ones without dark spots or soft areas. If you want a twist, you can substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a slightly different taste profile.

How should I store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy!

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Rounds?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked sweet potato rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crisp.

What if my sweet potatoes aren’t cooking evenly?
No worries! If you find some rounds are undercooked while others are burning, check that they’re of uniform thickness, ideally ¼-inch. Ensuring they’re arranged in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet also helps. If you’ve followed these steps and still encounter issues, consider using a convection setting on your oven for more even airflow.

Are these Sweet Potato Rounds vegetarian-friendly?
Very! This recipe is completely vegetarian, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings. Additionally, it’s wise to check that the brie cheese you use is rennet-free if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions. Enjoy the elegance of this dish without worry!