“Can you believe the holidays are right around the corner?” As the season of gatherings approaches, it’s time to elevate our snack game with delicious and festive bites. These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are the epitome of holiday appetizers, offering a perfect bite-sized delight that’s both creamy and crunchy. Not only are they incredibly simple to make, but they also add a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations, effortlessly impressing your guests. Whether you place them on a charcuterie board or serve them as a stand-alone dish, they’re sure to please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Are you ready to wow your friends and family with this delightful treat? Let’s dive into the details!
Why are these Sweet Potato Rounds special?
Uniqueness: These Sweet Potato Rounds beautifully blend sweet and savory, making them a standout holiday appetizer.
Effortless preparation: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a dish that looks gourmet.
Visually stunning: Their vibrant colors and elegant presentation will catch everyone’s eye at your gathering.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for both vegetarians and meat-lovers, ensuring every guest feels included.
Make-ahead convenience: Prep them in advance and simply reheat before serving, making your holiday stress-free.
Elevate your festivities with these appetizers, alongside favorites like Cheesy Taco Potatoes for a delightful spread!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base
• Sweet Potatoes – A naturally sweet base that brings both structure and flavor. Note: You can use butternut squash for a different flavor.
• Olive Oil – Used for roasting, it helps achieve that golden, caramelized exterior. Note: Avocado oil can also be a healthy substitute.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor. Note: Adjust to taste for a personalized touch.
For the Topping
• Brie Cheese – This rich cheese adds a creamy, indulgent layer on top. Note: Camembert can be used as a substitute if desired.
• Dried Cranberries – These provide a sweet and tart contrast perfect for holiday flavors. Note: Fresh cranberries can work too if cooked down with a bit of sugar.
• Toasted Pecans – They contribute a delightful crunch and nutty taste. Note: Walnuts can be a tasty alternative if you prefer.
• Fresh Rosemary or Thyme – Optional herbs that enhance aroma and presentation for a stunning finish.
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, a delightful combination that’s sure to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. This will set the stage for perfect Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, as they roast and caramelize beautifully.
Step 2: Slice Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel 1–2 medium sweet potatoes before slicing them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Ensure that your slices are of uniform thickness for even cooking. Arrange these rounds in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, allowing space between them to help them roast rather than steam, enhancing their caramelization.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, then sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper, tossing gently to coat evenly. Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should emerge golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges, signaling that they are ready for the next step.
Step 4: Add Brie
Once the sweet potato rounds are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and place a slice of brie cheese on each round. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the brie has melted and is gooey. This creamy layer will beautifully complement your sweet potato base.
Step 5: Top with Cranberries and Pecans
After the brie has melted, take the baking sheet out of the oven once more. Top each round with a sprinkle of dried cranberries and a handful of toasted pecans. These toppings will add a sweet and crunchy finish to your Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, creating a delightful explosion of flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your sweet potato rounds with fresh rosemary or thyme before serving. These aromatic herbs not only enhance the presentation but also add a burst of fresh fragrance. Serve warm and watch as your guests rave about these irresistible holiday appetizers!
Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Rounds
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Slice Uniformly: Ensure your sweet potato rounds are evenly sliced at ¼-inch thick for consistent cooking, allowing each piece to caramelize beautifully.
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Don’t Skimp on Oil: Drizzling olive oil is crucial; it helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the sweet potatoes tender inside.
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Perfect Cheese Melting: To avoid overcooking the brie, add it only during the last 5 minutes of baking to keep it gooey and delicious on top of your sweet potato rounds with brie, cranberry, and pecans.
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Top Just Before Serving: Add cranberries and pecans right after roasting to maintain their texture—crunchy and flavorful!
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Garnish for Flair: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme brighten up the dish both visually and aromatically. Don’t forget this simple step for gourmet presentation!
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. To maintain freshness, cover well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sweet potato rounds before adding toppings. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy. Add brie, cranberries, and pecans just before serving for optimal flavor.
Make-Ahead: Roast sweet potato rounds in advance and keep them stored in the fridge. Add toppings before serving to enjoy freshly melted cheese and crunchy toppings.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during the busy holiday season! You can roast the sweet potato rounds up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures they maintain their delicious texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the rounds in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, then top with brie and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melty. This approach will give you restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, letting you enjoy more time with your guests.
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans
These delightful bites deserve a spread of equally tempting dishes to create the perfect holiday feast.
- Warm Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and cheesy, this dip brings a rich flavor that pairs well with the earthy sweetness of the sweet potato.
- Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: With their umami-packed filling and delicate texture, they are a wonderful complement to the creamy brie.
- Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and caramelized sweetness create balance against the sweet cranberries and nuts.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch, enhancing your appetizer’s richness.
- Sparkling Wine: Effervescent and light, a glass of sparkling wine elevates the festive experience, cutting through the dish’s creaminess.
- Apple Cider Mimosas: Sweet and fruity, these drinks bring a festive spirit, harmonizing perfectly with the fall flavors in each bite.
Each pairing offers a little something different, ensuring your gathering is both delicious and memorably festive!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make these Sweet Potato Rounds your own—they’re versatile and fun to customize!
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Nut-Free: Replace pecans with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without nuts. These seeds will add a different texture while keeping it safe for nut allergies.
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Vegan: Use vegan brie cheese and maple syrup instead of honey to create a plant-based alternative. This version still embraces the holiday spirit with creamy, rich flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a zesty flavor boost. A touch of heat balances the sweetness of the cranberries and makes each bite even more exciting.
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Flavor Infusion: Brush the sweet potato slices with garlic-infused olive oil before roasting for an aromatic twist. This subtle flavor will elevate your sweet potato rounds to another level!
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Different Cheese: Try goat cheese or feta as a tangy substitute for brie. The sharpness of these cheeses will bring an interesting contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes and cranberries.
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Herb Variations: Swap fresh rosemary or thyme for fresh sage or parsley to switch up the herb aspect. Each herb adds its own unique aroma and flavor, creating a refreshing touch.
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Additional Toppings: Convert these rounds into mini holiday nachos by adding chopped jalapeños and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top. This twist makes them even more festive!
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Sweet Candy Twist: For a candy-like version, top with mini marshmallows instead of cranberries before the final bake. They’ll melt and toast slightly, creating a sweet, sticky topping that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Don’t forget to also try serving these alongside other holiday favorites like One Pan Noodles or Chicken Roasted Potatoes for a delightful spread that everyone will love!
Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with dark spots or wrinkles. A good sweet potato should have a vibrant, even color. For this recipe, the sweeter, the better!
What’s the best way to store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal it well to keep them from drying out.
Can I freeze Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans?
Yes! For optimal freezing, prepare the sweet potato rounds without the toppings. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, and add the brie, cranberries, and pecans just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What if I can’t find brie cheese?
Not a problem at all! I often substitute it with Camembert if brie isn’t available. While Camembert is a bit stronger in flavor, it still pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes and the other toppings.
Can I prepare these Sweet Potato Rounds in advance?
Absolutely! You can roast the sweet potato rounds up to a day ahead and store them in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat in the oven and add the toppings right before serving. This ensures that the cheese is fresh and gooey, while the pecans and cranberries retain their lovely crunch.
Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Great question! The main ingredients include dairy (brie cheese) and nuts (pecans). If anyone has allergies, you could easily swap the brie for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use sunflower seeds instead of nuts for crunch. This way, everyone can enjoy the Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans!
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 sweet potatoes before slicing them into ¼-inch thick rounds and arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Add a slice of brie cheese on each round and bake for an additional 5 minutes until brie is melted.
- Top with dried cranberries and toasted pecans.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme before serving.
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