Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts: The Ultimate Holiday Appetizer Recipe
Imagine a perfect bite that captures the entire essence of the holiday season. This Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts appetizer recipe delivers exactly that. Moreover, it combines creamy, savory, sweet, and crunchy elements in one elegant package. Consequently, it has become a staple on my holiday table for its stunning presentation and incredible flavor.
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potato provides a hearty base. Then, melted brie cheese adds a luxurious, creamy texture. Finally, tart cranberry sauce and crunchy toasted walnuts create a symphony of contrasting flavors. Ultimately, this dish proves that impressive appetizers do not require complicated techniques.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: This appetizer features a beautiful balance. The sweet potato and brie offer a rich, creamy foundation. Meanwhile, the cranberry provides a necessary tart punch, and the walnut adds a savory, earthy finish.
- Texture: You get a wonderful textural journey. The roasted sweet potato round is tender yet firm. Then, the melted brie is luxuriously gooey. Finally, the cranberry sauce is jammy, and the walnut provides a satisfying, crunchy contrast.
- Aroma: While baking, the kitchen fills with the warm, caramelized scent of roasting sweet potatoes and melting cheese. Additionally, toasting the walnuts releases their nutty, fragrant oils, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
- Visual Appeal: This dish is a feast for the eyes. The vibrant orange rounds, white melted brie, deep red cranberry, and brown walnuts create a festive, colorful palette. Therefore, it looks stunning on any platter.
- Skill Level Needed: This is a beginner-friendly recipe. Basically, it involves simple slicing, roasting, and assembling. Furthermore, no advanced culinary skills are required, making it perfect for novice cooks and busy hosts alike.
- Special Equipment: You only need a sharp knife, a baking sheet, and parchment paper. A mandoline slicer can ensure uniform rounds, but it is not essential. Ultimately, standard kitchen tools are perfectly sufficient.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: I rate this recipe as easy. The steps are straightforward and sequential. First, you slice and roast the sweet potato. Next, you top it with cheese and broil. Finally, you add the garnishes. There is no complex technique involved.
- Category: This dish falls squarely into the appetizer or hors d’oeuvre category. It is perfect for finger food at parties. Alternatively, you could serve a larger portion as a festive side dish or a light vegetarian lunch.
- Cuisine: While not tied to one specific tradition, it draws inspiration from modern American holiday cooking. The combination of sweet potato, cranberry, and nuts is quintessentially autumnal and celebratory in North American cuisine.
- Cost: This is a relatively affordable appetizer. Sweet potatoes are inexpensive year-round. Brie can be a splurge, but a little goes a long way. Cranberry sauce and walnuts are pantry staples, keeping the overall cost moderate.
- Season: This recipe shines in the fall and winter. Specifically, it is ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s gatherings. The ingredients are seasonal and evoke feelings of warmth and celebration.
- Occasion: It is perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, and family gatherings. Additionally, it makes an elegant offering for cocktail parties or a festive starter for a special dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First, the taste and texture are absolutely irresistible. Each bite delivers a complex yet harmonious blend. The creamy, mild brie perfectly tempers the tart cranberry. Meanwhile, the sweet potato base soaks up all the flavors, and the walnut adds a crucial crunch. Consequently, your guests will keep coming back for more.
Second, the convenience factor is a major win. This Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts appetizer recipe comes together in about thirty-five minutes. Furthermore, you can prepare components in advance. For instance, slice the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Then, simply roast and assemble before your event, minimizing last-minute kitchen stress.
Third, it offers notable nutritional advantages. Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene and fiber. Walnuts provide healthy fats and protein. Compared to many fried appetizers, this option feels indulgent but is actually baked. Therefore, you can enjoy a flavorful bite that also offers some wholesome benefits.
Fourth, the social and entertaining value is exceptional. This dish is a guaranteed conversation starter. Its beautiful appearance impresses guests immediately. Moreover, it is easy to eat while mingling, as each round is a perfect, mess-free finger food. It elevates any party spread effortlessly.
Fifth, it is cost-effective and accessible. You likely have many ingredients already. Sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and walnuts are grocery store staples. While brie is a special cheese, you only need a small amount per round. Ultimately, you create a gourmet-looking appetizer without a gourmet price tag.
Historical Background and Cultural Significance
The individual components of this dish have deep historical roots. Sweet potatoes are native to the Americas and have been cultivated for thousands of years. They became a staple in Southern U.S. cuisine. Meanwhile, cranberries are one of North America’s few native fruits, traditionally used by Indigenous peoples and iconic at Thanksgiving. Combining them on a modern appetizer plate connects us to these food histories.
Culturally, this combination evokes the American holiday season. The pairing of sweet potato and cranberry is classic on the Thanksgiving table. Transforming them into a finger food modernizes tradition. Additionally, using brie, a French cheese, adds an element of European elegance. This fusion creates a contemporary dish that still feels familiar and celebratory.
The recipe’s evolution follows trends in entertaining. Appetizers have shifted from complicated canapés to simpler, ingredient-driven bites. This Sweet Potato Rounds appetizer recipe fits that trend perfectly. It highlights whole, recognizable ingredients in an elegant format. Furthermore, it caters to a desire for food that is both visually appealing and easy to eat at parties.
Regional variations might include different cheeses or nuts. In the South, you might find pecans instead of walnuts. In the Pacific Northwest, hazelnuts could be a delicious substitute. Some versions use goat cheese for a tangier profile. The basic formula, however, remains a versatile canvas for seasonal and local ingredients.
Ingredient Deep Dive
Sweet Potatoes: Botanically distinct from yams, sweet potatoes are tuberous roots packed with nutrition. They are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, supporting vision and immunity. For this recipe, choose firm, medium-sized potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin. Store them in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place, but not the refrigerator. For a substitution, try using small red potatoes or even slices of butternut squash.
Brie Cheese: This soft, creamy cheese originated in the French region of Brie. It is known for its edible, bloomy rind and buttery interior. Brie provides protein and calcium. When selecting brie, choose a wheel that feels slightly soft to the touch. Always bring it to room temperature before baking for optimal melt. Store brie in the refrigerator’s cheese drawer. For a different flavor, Camembert or a creamy goat cheese would work well.
Cranberry Sauce: Using whole-berry cranberry sauce provides the best texture and visual appeal. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C. Opt for a high-quality sauce with real fruit, or make your own simply by simmering fresh cranberries with orange juice and a sweetener. Store opened sauce in the refrigerator. For a substitution, try fig jam, cherry preserves, or a chutney to play with different sweet-tart profiles.
Walnuts: Walnuts are one of the best plant sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Toasting them is a non-negotiable step for this recipe, as it intensifies their flavor and crunch. Simply toast in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Store walnuts in the freezer to keep their oils from turning rancid. For a nut-free version, try toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Slicing Sweet Potatoes Too Thick or Thin: Aim for 1/4-inch thick rounds. Slices that are too thick will not cook through properly. Conversely, slices that are too thin will become too soft and may burn. A consistent thickness ensures even cooking.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Sweet potatoes can stick fiercely to a baking sheet. Parchment paper guarantees easy release. Moreover, it makes cleanup an absolute breeze. Do not substitute wax paper, as it is not oven-safe.
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Give the rounds space. If they are too close, they will steam instead of roast. Consequently, you will miss out on the desirable caramelized edges. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Not Toasting the Walnuts: Raw walnuts can taste bitter and lack crunch. Toasting is a quick step that dramatically improves flavor and texture. Always toast nuts in a single layer for even color.
- Using Cold Brie: If the brie is too cold, it will not melt properly under the broiler. Let it sit out for 20-30 minutes before slicing. Room-temperature cheese will achieve that perfect, oozy melt.
- Broiling Unattended: The broiler works fast. Do not walk away. Watch carefully as the brie melts and bubbles. It can go from perfect to burnt in mere seconds. Stay nearby for the entire broiling step.
- Assembling Too Early: Assemble the rounds just before serving. If you add the cranberry and walnuts too early, the potato can get soggy. For the best texture, top them right before your guests arrive.
- Forgetting to Season: Even sweet ingredients need salt. Do not forget a light sprinkle of salt and pepper on the sweet potato rounds before roasting. This simple step elevates all the other flavors.
Essential Techniques
Uniform Slicing: Consistent thickness is critical for even cooking. Use a sharp chef’s knife and take your time. For perfect results, a mandoline slicer set to 1/4-inch is ideal. The key is steady, even pressure. Watch your fingers carefully if using a mandoline. Uniform slices ensure every round has the same perfect base texture.
Roasting vs. Baking: Roasting at a high temperature (400°F) is intentional. This method caramelizes the natural sugars in the sweet potato, creating concentrated flavor and a slightly crisp edge. Do not lower the temperature to save time, as this will cause them to steam. The visual cue for doneness is tender flesh and browned edges.
Broiling Cheese: Broiling uses direct, high heat from above to melt and lightly brown the cheese quickly. Position your oven rack in the upper third. The goal is to melt the brie until it is bubbly and just starting to golden in spots. This technique provides a restaurant-quality finish in under two minutes.
Toasting Nuts: Toasting nuts in a dry pan unlocks their essential oils. Use medium heat and shake the pan frequently for even color. Listen for a faint sizzle and watch for a deepened color and fragrant smell. The moment you smell them, they are usually done. Immediately transfer them to a plate to stop the cooking process.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Rounds
- For extra-crisp edges, toss the sweet potato rounds in a tiny amount of olive oil and cornstarch before roasting. This creates a delightful exterior texture.
- If your brie wheel is very ripe and soft, pop it in the freezer for 15 minutes before slicing. This firms it up, making it much easier to cut neat pieces.
- Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the finished rounds. This enhances the sweetness and adds a beautiful glossy sheen to the presentation.
- For an herby note, sprinkle fresh thyme or chopped rosemary over the rounds after they come out of the oven. The heat will release the herbs’ fragrance.
- Make a double batch of roasted sweet potato rounds and freeze them in a single layer. Then, you can pull out a few for a quick snack anytime.
- Use a small cookie cutter or melon baller to create neat, round pieces of brie that fit perfectly on each sweet potato slice.
- For a savory twist, add a whisper of crispy chopped bacon or a slice of prosciutto on top of the brie before broiling.
- Let the roasted sweet potato rounds cool for a minute before adding the brie. This prevents the cheese from melting too rapidly and sliding off.
Variations and Adaptations
Regional Variations: Southern style might use toasted pecans and a bourbon-spiked cranberry sauce. A Mediterranean twist could feature pistachios, fig jam, and a crumble of feta cheese. Feel free to experiment with local nuts and fruits to make it your own.
Seasonal Adaptations: In spring, try asparagus tips and herbed goat cheese. For summer, use grilled peach slices and burrata. This Sweet Potato Rounds appetizer recipe is wonderfully adaptable. The base method remains the same, simply swap the toppings.
Dietary Modifications: For a vegan version, use a plant-based brie alternative and maple syrup-sweetened cranberry sauce. For a dairy-free option, a thick, creamy cashew cheese works beautifully. Always check labels on pre-made sauces for hidden ingredients.
Flavor Variations: Infuse the olive oil with garlic or rosemary before brushing it on the sweet potatoes. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cranberry sauce for a spicy kick. A sprinkle of smoked paprika on the finished rounds adds depth.
Texture Modifications: For extra crunch, use candied walnuts or pecans. For a smoother finish, pulse the cranberry sauce briefly in a food processor. You could also add a second textural element like crispy fried shallots on top.
Presentation Alternatives: Instead of rounds, use sweet potato fries or tater tots as the base for a more casual feel. For a sit-down starter, place one beautifully topped round on a bed of dressed arugula.
Serving and Presentation Guide
Plating Techniques: Arrange the finished rounds on a large wooden board or a sleek slate platter. Cluster them together for impact. Alternatively, space them out on individual small plates for a passed appetizer course. Use fresh herb sprigs like rosemary or sage to frame the platter.
Garnishing Ideas: Beyond the walnuts, add microgreens or edible flowers for a pop of color. A final flake of sea salt just before serving enhances flavor and looks professional. A light dusting of powdered sugar can highlight the holiday theme, but use it sparingly.
Traditional Accompaniments: This appetizer pairs wonderfully with other holiday classics. Serve it alongside a charcuterie board, stuffed mushrooms, or a simple cheese ball. It complements both rich and light flavors on a buffet.
Modern Serving Suggestions: For a cocktail party, offer them as part of a “build-your-own-bite” station with other toppings like blue cheese crumbles, apple slices, and different jams. This interactive element is always a hit with guests.
Temperature Considerations: These are best served warm, when the brie is still soft and gooey. If serving over a long period, keep them on a warming tray set to low. Avoid letting them sit out until completely cold, as the cheese will firm up.
Portion Control Tips: Plan for 2-3 rounds per person as part of a larger appetizer spread. If serving as a primary hors d’oeuvre, plan for 4-5 pieces per guest. They are rich, so a little goes a long way.
Wine and Beverage Pairing
Wine Pairings: The sweet, creamy, and tart elements in this dish call for versatile wines. A slightly off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer complements the sweetness and cuts through the brie’s richness. For red lovers, a fruity Pinot Noir or Beaujolais works beautifully without overpowering the flavors. Avoid heavily oaked wines.
Non-Alcoholic Alternatives: Sparkling apple cider is a fantastic pairing, mimicking the effervescence of champagne. A cranberry and rosemary spritzer echoes the dish’s flavors. For a warmer option, a spiced chai tea latte complements the autumnal spices often associated with these ingredients.
Coffee/Tea Pairings: If serving at a brunch or afternoon gathering, pair with a medium-roast coffee that has nutty notes. A chai tea or a spiced herbal tea blend with cinnamon and orange would also be delightful. The warmth of the beverage contrasts nicely with the cool, tart cranberry.
Temperature Considerations: Serve white wines well-chilled and red wines slightly below room temperature. Non-alcoholic sparkling drinks should be icy cold. Warm beverages should be served piping hot to provide a comforting contrast to the cool toppings.
Serving Suggestions: Offer a couple of pairing options to cater to different tastes. Clearly label each beverage. Consider creating a signature cocktail for your event, like a cranberry mule or a walnut-infused old fashioned, to tie the whole menu together.
Storage and Shelf Life
Storage Methods: Store any leftover assembled rounds in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 24 hours. For longer storage, keep the components separate. Store roasted sweet potato rounds, sliced brie, cranberry sauce, and toasted walnuts in their own containers.
Temperature Requirements: All components must be refrigerated at or below 40°F. Do not leave the assembled appetizer at room temperature for more than two hours. Brie is a perishable dairy product and requires consistent refrigeration.
Container Recommendations: Use shallow containers for the sweet potato rounds to prevent stacking and sogginess. Place parchment paper between layers if you must stack them. Store brie in its original wrapping or in wax paper. Keep walnuts in a sealed bag or jar to retain crunch.
Signs of Spoilage: Discard if the sweet potato develops a slimy texture or off odor. Mold on the brie (beyond the natural rind) is a sign to throw it out. Cranberry sauce may develop fermentation bubbles or an alcoholic smell. Rancid walnuts will smell like paint or chemicals.
Reheating Instructions: Reheat un-topped sweet potato rounds in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm. You can then re-top with brie and broil. Microwaving will make the rounds soggy and is not recommended for the assembled appetizer.
Freezing Guidelines: You can freeze the plain roasted sweet potato rounds. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven. Do not freeze the assembled dish or the brie.
Make Ahead Strategies
Prep Timeline: You can prep almost everything 1-2 days in advance. Day before: wash and slice sweet potatoes (store submerged in water in the fridge), toast and chop walnuts, and slice the brie. Day of: drain and pat dry sweet potatoes, roast, and assemble.
Storage Between Steps: Keep sliced sweet potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Cover and refrigerate. Store toasted walnuts at room temperature in an airtight container. Keep sliced brie on a plate covered with plastic wrap in the fridge.
Quality Impact Assessment: Pre-slicing sweet potatoes in water maintains freshness perfectly. Toasted walnuts stay crunchy for days. Slicing brie ahead saves crucial time during party prep. The only element best done day-of is the final roasting and broiling for optimal texture and temperature.
Assembly Tips: Set up an assembly line: roasted rounds, sliced brie, cranberry sauce, chopped walnuts, and garnishes. Work quickly while the rounds are still warm from roasting so the brie melts slightly upon contact. This helps the toppings adhere.
Reheating Guidelines: If you must reheat fully assembled leftovers, use a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for 5-8 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent the nuts from burning. The texture will be softer but still delicious.
Fresh Element Additions: Always add the final garnishes like an extra sprinkle of walnuts or a fresh herb sprig right before serving. This ensures maximum visual appeal and textural contrast for your guests.
Scaling Instructions
Halving the Recipe: Halving is straightforward for smaller gatherings. Simply divide all ingredient quantities by two. Use a smaller baking sheet. The cook time may decrease by 2-3 minutes, so start checking for doneness a bit earlier. All other techniques remain identical.
Doubling or Tripling: For large parties, doubling or tripling works well. Use multiple baking sheets and rotate them in the oven halfway through cooking. You may need to roast in batches to avoid steaming. Keep the first batches warm in a 200°F oven while subsequent batches cook.
Equipment Adjustments: Scaling up requires planning. Ensure you have enough baking sheets and oven space. Consider using a commercial-sized sheet pan if you have one. Have a large platter ready for presentation. A kitchen scale is helpful for dividing brie evenly when scaling.
Timing Modifications: When making multiple batches, prep time increases linearly, but cook time may overlap. Stagger putting sheets in the oven. Allow extra time for assembly, as topping dozens of rounds takes longer than topping one dozen.
Storage Considerations: Making a huge batch means you will likely have leftovers. Plan your storage containers in advance. Remember, assembled rounds are best fresh, so consider storing components separately if you anticipate not serving all at once.
Nutritional Deep Dive
Macro Breakdown: Each round provides a balance of complex carbs from the sweet potato, healthy fats from the walnut and brie, and a small amount of protein from the cheese and nut. The cranberry sauce adds simple sugars. This combination offers sustained energy from the fiber-rich base.
Micronutrient Analysis: Sweet potatoes are famously rich in Vitamin A (as beta-carotene), vital for eye health. Walnuts contribute manganese and copper. Brie provides calcium and phosphorus for bone health. Cranberries offer Vitamin C and various antioxidants. Together, they create a nutrient-dense bite.
Health Benefits: The antioxidants in sweet potatoes and cranberries combat oxidative stress. The healthy fats in walnuts support brain and heart health. The fiber promotes digestive wellness. Compared to fried appetizers, this baked option is a smarter choice for conscious indulgence.
Dietary Considerations: This dish is naturally gluten-free. It contains dairy (brie) and tree nuts (walnuts), which are common allergens. The recipe can be modified for specific diets, as outlined in other sections. Always inform guests of potential allergens.
Portion Analysis: One round is a satisfying single bite. Enjoying 2-3 rounds is a reasonable portion for an appetizer. The fiber and fat content promote satiety, helping to prevent overindulgence. They are flavorful enough that you will not feel deprived.
Weight Management Tips: To lighten the dish, use a lighter hand with the brie and opt for a sugar-free or homemade cranberry sauce with less sweetener. The sweet potato base is low in calories and high in volume, helping you feel full. Practice mindful eating by savoring each bite.
Dietary Adaptations
Gluten-free: This Sweet Potato Rounds appetizer recipe is naturally gluten-free. All core ingredients—sweet potato, brie, cranberry sauce, and walnuts—do not contain gluten. Always double-check the label on pre-made cranberry sauce for hidden thickeners or additives that may contain gluten.
Dairy-free: Substitute the brie with a high-quality dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. Many brands now offer cultured nut-based “brie” styles. Alternatively, use a thick, savory cashew cream or a dollop of hummus for a different but delicious creamy element.
Vegan: Use a plant-based brie and ensure your cranberry sauce is sweetened with vegan sweeteners like maple syrup or agave, not honey. Check that the sugar used is not processed with bone char. Toasted walnuts are naturally vegan. This adaptation is simple and effective.
Low-carb/Keto: Replace the sweet potato base with a round of roasted daikon radish or a thick slice of portobello mushroom cap. These provide a similar vehicle with far fewer net carbs. Use a sugar-free cranberry sauce sweetened with a keto-friendly sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol.
Paleo: Use homemade cranberry sauce sweetened only with a small amount of raw honey or maple syrup. Omit the brie, as dairy is not Paleo. Instead, top with a slice of avocado or a dollop of coconut cream after baking for a creamy component.
Low-FODMAP: Sweet potato is low-FODMAP in servings of 1/2 cup (75g). Stick to one round per serving. Use a lactose-free hard cheese instead of brie, as aged cheeses are lower in lactose. Walnuts are low-FODMAP in small servings. Ensure cranberry sauce has no high-fructose corn syrup.
Troubleshooting Guide
Texture Issues (Soggy Rounds): Sogginess results from under-roasting or stacking warm rounds. Ensure rounds are patted completely dry before oiling and roasting. Roast until the edges are visibly caramelized. Cool them on a wire rack instead of a plate to allow steam to escape.
Flavor Balance (Too Sweet or Too Savory): If the dish is too sweet, add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top after assembly. If it’s too savory, add a tiny drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze. The beauty of this recipe is you can adjust the final seasoning to your personal taste.
Temperature Problems (Cold Cheese): If the brie is not melting under the broiler, it was likely too cold or the rounds were not hot enough. Ensure the sweet potato rounds are piping hot from the oven when you add the cheese. Let the brie sit out to take the chill off first.
Equipment Challenges (No Broiler): If your oven lacks a broiler setting, use the highest bake temperature (usually 500°F or 550°F). Place the rack in the top position and watch closely. The cheese will melt and bubble, though it may not brown as quickly. A culinary torch can also create a perfect finish.
Ingredient Substitutions (Out of an Item): No walnuts? Use pecans, almonds, or pepitas. No brie? Camembert, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar will work. No cranberry sauce? Fig jam, orange marmalade, or a savory onion jam are excellent alternatives. The recipe is very forgiving.
Timing Concerns (Getting Everything Hot at Once): For a party, roast all sweet potato rounds first and keep them warm on a sheet pan in a 200°F oven. Then, top all with brie and run them under the broiler in one or two large batches. Add the cold toppings immediately after broiling.
Recipe Success Stories
Readers consistently report that this Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts appetizer recipe becomes an instant favorite. One home cook shared that she brought it to a potluck where it disappeared in minutes, and three people asked for the recipe. Another mentioned it was the first appetizer her picky teenager ever willingly tried and enjoyed.
Creative variations have been a huge success. A reader from Vermont used maple candied walnuts and local goat cheese for a regional twist. Someone else made a vegan version for their holiday table, and omnivore guests loved it just as much as the original. These adaptations prove the recipe’s fantastic versatility.
Photography tips from the community have been invaluable. The best photos use natural light, a dark background to make the orange rounds pop, and a slightly overhead angle. A sprig of fresh rosemary or a dusting of powdered sugar just before shooting adds a professional, festive touch.
Many readers appreciate the make-ahead tips. A busy mom of three noted that prepping the components during naptime allowed her to host a stress-free dinner party. The ability to have a gourmet appetizer ready in minutes after guests arrive is a recurring theme in the positive feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these sweet potato rounds ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can roast the sweet potato rounds up to two days in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat in the oven before topping. You can also slice the brie and toast the walnuts ahead. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
Q: What can I use instead of brie cheese?
A: Several cheeses work well. Camembert is very similar. Goat cheese offers a tangy profile. For a sharper flavor, try a very thin slice of aged gouda or cheddar. For a vegan version, use a high-quality plant-based cheese that melts.
Q: How do I prevent the sweet potato rounds from sticking to the pan?
A> Parchment paper is your best friend here. Do not skip it. Alternatively, you can use a silicone baking mat. Lightly greasing the pan might work, but parchment guarantees no sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of sauce?
A> You can, but they need preparation. Make a quick compote by simmering fresh cranberries with a little orange juice and sweetener until they burst and thicken. Let it cool completely before using. Whole fresh cranberries are too tart and firm for this recipe.
Q: Are yams and sweet potatoes the same for this recipe?
A> In most U.S. supermarkets, what is labeled “yam” is usually a variety of sweet potato. Either will work fine. True yams are starchier and less sweet, but they are uncommon. Use any orange-fleshed tuber labeled sweet potato or yam.
Q: My brie didn’t melt much under the broiler. Why?
A> The sweet potato rounds likely weren’t hot enough when you added the cheese. Also, ensure your brie is at room temperature. Place the cheese-topped rounds directly under the broiler element, not on a lower rack, for intense, direct heat.
Q: Can I freeze the assembled appetizers?
A> I do not recommend freezing the fully assembled rounds. The textures of the potato and cheese will suffer upon thawing. Instead, freeze the plain roasted sweet potato rounds separately. Thaw, reheat, and then add fresh toppings.
Q: How do I get perfectly round slices of sweet potato?
A> Choose potatoes that are uniform in width. Use a sharp knife and slice straight down. A mandoline slicer set to 1/4-inch gives the most consistent results. Discard the very end pieces that are mostly skin.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
A> Certainly. Use a less-sweet cranberry sauce or chutney. You can also add a savory element like a thin slice of prosciutto under the cheese or a sprinkle of fresh thyme or cracked black pepper over the top to balance the sweetness.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A> Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for 5-8 minutes until warm. The microwave will make the rounds soggy. The texture is best when reheated with dry, ambient heat.
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Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts
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- Author: Chef Billy
Description
A festive and savory appetizer featuring roasted sweet potato slices topped with creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 ounces brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss sweet potato rounds with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and top each round with a piece of brie. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Spoon a small amount of cranberry sauce over each round, sprinkle with walnuts, and garnish with thyme. Serve warm.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
I’m Billy, a classically trained culinary school graduate from The Culinary Institute of America with over 12 years in the restaurant industry and over 19 years of cooking experience.






