The warm aroma of roasted sweet potatoes fills my kitchen, instantly transporting me to holiday gatherings filled with laughter and joy. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans, an elegant holiday appetizer that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat. These bite-sized treasures combine creamy brie with tart cranberries and the crunch of pecans, creating a harmonious balance that folks will rave about. Not only are they quick to prepare, but these sweet potato rounds make a stunning centerpiece for your festive table, sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Curious about how to bring this dish to life in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!

Why will you love these Sweet Potato Rounds?

Versatile Flavor Profile: Each bite fuses rich brie, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, creating a delightfully balanced taste that suits any festive occasion.

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can serve up these elegant appetizers without spending hours in the kitchen.

Impressive Presentation: Their beautiful golden hue topped with colorful cranberries and nuts makes them eye-catching on any table setting.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast the sweet potatoes in advance, store them, and simply top with brie and garnishes before entertaining, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for holiday parties or cozy family dinners. Pair them with other tasty bites like Fryer Mashed Potato or Potato Taco Bowls for a variety of flavors.

Sweet Potato Rounds Ingredients

To make your Sweet Potato Rounds come to life, gather these delightful ingredients:

For the Base
• Sweet Potatoes – The star of the dish, roasted to achieve a sweet and tender bite.
• Olive Oil – Essential for roasting, providing richness and helping achieve that lovely golden color.
• Salt and Pepper – Enhance the natural flavors; adjust to your taste preferences.

For the Toppings
• Brie Cheese – This creamy delight melts beautifully, adding a luxurious texture to your rounds.
• Dried Cranberries – Their tart sweetness balances the richness of the brie, making every bite pop.
• Pecans – Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; toasting them will elevate their taste.

Optional Garnish
• Fresh Herbs (Rosemary or Thyme) – These vibrant herbs bring a fresh note; feel free to substitute as needed for a unique twist.

Now that you have gathered all these ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating the ultimate Sweet Potato Rounds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Rounds

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will ensure that your sweet potato rounds don’t stick while roasting and will help achieve those perfectly crispy edges.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Wash your sweet potatoes thoroughly and peel them to reveal their vibrant orange flesh. Slice them into ¼-inch rounds, making sure they’re consistent for even cooking. Once sliced, arrange the sweet potato rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, allowing enough space for air circulation.

Step 3: Season & Roast
Drizzle the sweet potato rounds with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Toss the rounds gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway, until tender and lightly golden on the edges. You’ll know they’re ready when they are fork-tender.

Step 4: Melt Brie
Once the sweet potato rounds are roasted to perfection, take them out of the oven. Grab slices of creamy brie cheese and carefully place one on top of each round. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the brie melts beautifully and becomes gooey.

Step 5: Top & Serve
After the cheese has melted, remove the sweet potato rounds from the oven one last time. Sprinkle dried cranberries and toasted pecans on top of each round, allowing their vibrant colors to shine. If desired, add a garnish of fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an extra touch of flavor. Serve your Sweet Potato Rounds warm to enjoy their delightful melty goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Rounds are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delectable appetizer without the last-minute rush! You can roast the sweet potatoes up to 3 days in advance; simply let them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and top each round with brie, then return to the oven for about 5 minutes until the cheese is gooey. To maintain their quality, make sure to refrigerate the rounds promptly and ensure they are completely chilled before sealing. This make-ahead strategy not only saves you time but also ensures your guests enjoy warm, hassle-free Sweet Potato Rounds bursting with flavor!

Sweet Potato Rounds: Flavorful Variations!

Customize your Sweet Potato Rounds with delightful twists that will surprise your palate and keep every bite exciting. Here are some variations to inspire your creativity!

Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts or pistachios for a unique nutty flavor that still adds crunch and texture.
Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a rich and tangy profile that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
Soothing Sweetness: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the rounds for an added touch of sweetness before serving, enhancing the holiday flavors.
Colorful Bites: Top the rounds with fresh berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for a vibrant and fruity contrast that brightens each bite.
Herb Infusion: Infuse fresh flavors by using dill or chives instead of the suggested rosemary or thyme; this brings a refreshing twist to the dish.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat that balances the rich and sweet ingredients beautifully.
Stuffed Surprise: Add a dollop of herbed cream cheese on top before adding brie for a creamy burst of flavor that elevates each round.
Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate roasted butternut squash or apples to the topping for a seasonal twist that captures the essence of the holidays.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas or check out other delicious recipes like Donkey Balls Sweet to complement your next festive gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Rounds

Fridge: Store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roasted sweet potato rounds without toppings. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen rounds, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, adding toppings like brie, cranberries, and pecans during the last few minutes of baking for a fresh taste.

Preparation Tip: Consider roasting sweet potatoes in advance, storing them, and topping with cheese and garnishes just before serving to streamline your holiday appetizer prep.

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

Creating a delightful meal involves thoughtful pairings that elevate the flavors of each dish served.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The crunchy exterior and tender inside of Brussels sprouts provide a contrasting texture that complements the creamy sweetness of the sweet potato rounds.
Mixed Green Salad: A vibrant salad with tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and brightness, balancing the richness of the brie and pecans.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes offer a comforting base to your meal, making every bite feel like a warm embrace amidst the holiday chaos.
Herb-Infused Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa, seasoned with fresh herbs, adds a nutty flavor and complements the sweet potato rounds perfectly.
Butternut Squash Soup: A warm, velvety soup enhances the meal’s comforting feel, providing a delightful contrast to the tartness of cranberries.
Sparkling Cider: This bubbly drink adds a festive touch and sweet fizz that pairs beautifully with the savory and sweet elements of the dish.
Cheese Platter: A medley of cheeses alongside the sweet potato rounds will please any palate and offer a lovely grazing option during gatherings.
Pumpkin Pie: As a seasonal favorite, this dessert provides the perfect sweet ending, harmonizing flavors with the sweet elements of your appetizer.

Each of these pairings contributes to a memorable dining experience, making your gathering feel both festive and cozy.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Rounds

Uniform Slices: Make sure to slice the sweet potatoes evenly to ensure all rounds cook at the same rate—this helps achieve that perfect tender texture.
Crispy Edges: Use parchment paper for easy removal and to promote those deliciously crispy edges; this makes every bite more enjoyable.
Brie Melting: Allow your brie cheese to come to room temperature before placing it on the rounds; this helps it melt beautifully and evenly.
Herb Garnish: Fresh herbs add a lovely flavor boost! Try rosemary or thyme, and add them sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Make Ahead: To ease your holiday prep, roast the sweet potatoes up to two days in advance, then just top them and reheat before serving.
Avoid Overcrowding: Space the sweet potato rounds out on your baking sheet. This ensures proper roasting and prevents steaming, giving you those desirable golden edges.

Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my sweet potatoes are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for sweet potatoes that are smooth-skinned without any dark spots or blemishes. Avoid those that feel soft or have sprouted; a firm sweet potato will provide the best flavor and texture for your Sweet Potato Rounds.

How should I store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds?
You can store leftover Sweet Potato Rounds in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until they are warmed through and regain their delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Rounds?
Yes, you can freeze sweet potato rounds! First, roast the rounds without any toppings. Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, adding brie and toppings during the last few minutes.

What should I do if my brie isn’t melting properly?
If your brie isn’t melting as desired, make sure it’s at room temperature before placing it on the sweet potato rounds. This helps it melt evenly and beautifully! If the cheese is too cold, it might not soften well. Also, ensure you’ve left sufficient baking time. If all else fails, you can microwave it gently for a few seconds until it starts to melt.

Are these Sweet Potato Rounds suitable for vegetarians?
Very much so! The Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans are entirely vegetarian-friendly. Just be sure to check the labels of the brie and any other ingredients for any hidden animal products, though most varieties are suitable. Always double-check for any allergies!