Stepping into my kitchen during the holiday season often feels like unearthing a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored. This year, I’m excited to share my take on a festive delight—Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans. This elegant appetizer is not only visually stunning but also incredibly simple to whip up, making it the perfect go-to for both Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. Imagine the heartwarming combination of creamy brie, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans layered on tender roasted sweet potatoes. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast of textures, making it a sophisticated crowd-pleaser that will have your guests raving. Plus, these delightful rounds can be prepared in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!

Why are these Sweet Potato Rounds unforgettable?

Elegant flavors: The creamy brie and tart cranberries create a luxurious taste profile that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Simple preparation: Effortlessly whip up this stunning appetizer in just a few steps, leaving you plenty of time for other festive activities.
Crowd favorite: With their impressive presentation and rich flavors, these Sweet Potato Rounds are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap out ingredients, like using walnuts instead of pecans or trying different cheeses like goat cheese, for a unique twist!
Make ahead: Roast the sweet potatoes in advance and add toppings just before serving for a stress-free experience.
Perfect for any occasion: While ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas, these bites are delightful year-round, whether for a dinner party or a casual weekend snack.

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Rounds

Sweet Potatoes – The base of the dish, offering natural sweetness; you can also substitute with butternut squash for a similar taste.
Olive Oil – Essential for roasting; it adds moisture and enhances the flavor, though avocado oil works well too.
Salt and Pepper – Season to taste; adjust according to your personal preference for the best flavor.

For the Topping

Brie Cheese – Melts beautifully on top; camembert cheese is a great substitute if you prefer.
Dried Cranberries – Add a delightful tartness and sweetness; consider dried cherries for a different flavor boost.
Toasted Pecans – Provides a crunchy, nutty element; walnuts or pistachios make fine alternatives if desired.
Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (optional) – Great for garnish and aroma; feel free to use parsley for a fresh twist.

These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are ready to take center stage at your holiday festivities!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure the sweet potato rounds don’t stick and that they roast evenly. A well-prepared baking sheet is essential for achieving that delightful crispy edge, so take this first step seriously!

Step 2: Slice Sweet Potatoes
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. These uniform slices are key to even cooking. Arrange the rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to roast properly and become tender with a hint of caramelization.

Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss them gently to coat, making sure each round is evenly seasoned. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they are tender and show a slight golden-brown hue.

Step 4: Add Brie Cheese
Once the sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and top each round with a slice of creamy brie cheese. The warmth of the rounds will begin to melt the cheese, creating a luxurious topping. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the brie to become beautifully gooey.

Step 5: Garnish with Cranberries and Pecans
After the cheese has melted, take the sweet potato rounds out of the oven one last time. Generously sprinkle with dried cranberries and toasted pecans for added flavor and crunch. The contrast of these garnishes with the warm, melty brie enhances the overall dish, creating a stunning presentation for your guests.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Serve the Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans warm for the best experience. Arrange them on a beautiful platter, and watch as your family and friends delight in this elegant holiday appetizer. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to impress at any gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans

Fridge: Store any leftover sweet potato rounds in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sweet potato rounds without toppings. Place on a baking sheet until frozen and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen until heated.

Reheating: To reheat, simply place on a lined baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, then add brie and toppings for the last 5 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tips: Roast the sweet potatoes a day in advance and keep them in the fridge. Add the toppings right before serving to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.

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

A well-curated selection of sides transforms these exquisite bites into a delightful full meal experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the sweet potato rounds, providing a rich, smooth taste with every bite.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp, garlicky green beans add a refreshing crunch and a burst of color, balancing the richness of the brie beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The deep flavors of balsamic-roasted Brussels sprouts enhance the sweet and savory notes of the appetizer, making them a perfect pairing.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade cranberry sauce brings an extra tangy sweetness that harmonizes well with both the sweet potatoes and the brie.
Spinach Salad: A vibrant spinach salad topped with pomegranate seeds and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing twist and balances the hearty elements of the meal.
Refreshing White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc offers crisp acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese, enhancing the entire dining experience.

A combination of these elements not only rounds out the plate but creates an inviting atmosphere for your holiday gathering.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Rounds

Prep Ahead: Chop the sweet potatoes in advance and store them in water. This keeps them fresh and saves time on the day of your gathering!
Optimal Baking: Use a high-quality parchment paper to prevent sticking and achieve those crispy edges, ensuring each Sweet Potato Round comes out perfect.
Cheese Alternatives: If you want to experiment, try different cheeses like goat or blue cheese for a unique flavor twist that your guests will love!
Layering Flavors: For an extra burst of sweetness, consider drizzling a touch of honey or maple syrup over the tops just before serving.
Garnish Choices: Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley not only enhance presentation but also add an aromatic touch to these elegant bites.

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Variations

Feel free to explore these tasty twists to make the recipe your own!

Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for toasted walnuts or pistachios to introduce a new texture and flavor into the rounds.
Cheese Options: Use creamy goat cheese or bold blue cheese instead of brie for an exciting change that your guests will love.
Sweet Toppings: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the top just before serving to enhance the sweetness and create a beautiful glaze.
Fruit Swaps: Dried cherries can replace cranberries for a unique flavor profile that adds a touch of tartness and richness.
Herb Garnish: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or sage to brighten the flavors and add visual appeal to your dish.
Balsamic Bliss: A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a sweet tanginess, sharpening the overall flavor of these elegant bites.
Slice Thickness: For a different texture, try slicing your sweet potatoes thinner for crispier rounds or thicker for extra heartiness.
Seasoning Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the olive oil to give your rounds a spicy kick.

Explore these variations on your Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, and don’t hesitate to adjust the recipe to suit your holiday gatherings! Enjoy your culinary adventure and serve alongside delightful dishes like Sizzling Chinese Pepper or Cheesy Taco Potatoes to make your festive table complete.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are perfect for busy cooks looking to streamline their holiday meal prep! You can roast the sweet potato rounds up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delightful texture, reheat the rounds in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before adding the toppings. Additionally, you can prepare the toppings (sliced brie, cranberries, and pecans) and store them separately until you’re ready to serve. When you’re set to impress your guests, simply top the reheated rounds with brie, bake again for 5 minutes, and garnish with cranberries and pecans for that restaurant-quality finish. By prepping in advance, you’ll have more time to enjoy the festivities!

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Select sweet potatoes that are firm to the touch, without any dark spots or soft areas. Look for those with smooth skin and a vibrant orange color. Avoid any with blemishes, as these might affect the taste and texture of your dish.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Keep any leftover sweet potato rounds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the rounds until they’re warmed through. This method helps to retain their delicious flavors and textures!

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie Cranberry and Pecans?
Of course! To freeze, it’s best to do so before adding any toppings. Arrange the sweet potato rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, place them directly from the freezer into the oven until heated through, then add the brie and toppings for the last 5 minutes of baking for the best results.

What if my sweet potato rounds are soggy?
Very good question! If you find your sweet potato rounds are soggy, this could be due to excess moisture. Make sure to slice them evenly into ¼-inch rounds and ensure they are spaced out on the baking sheet during roasting, which allows for proper air circulation and caramelization. If they’re already baked and soggy, try reheating them in a hot oven as this can help crisp them up again.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you or your guests have nut allergies, consider omitting the toasted pecans or substituting them with seeds like pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture. Additionally, check the brie cheese for any added ingredients that might contain allergens. These Sweet Potato Rounds are versatile, so feel free to adjust according to dietary needs while keeping the flavor profile intact!

Can I make these sweet potato rounds ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the sweet potatoes a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Simply reheat the rounds at 350°F (175°C) before adding the brie, cranberries, and pecans just before serving. This method ensures you maintain their delightful flavors and textures while saving you precious time during your holiday celebrations.