Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are golden, crispy on the outside, and filled with creamy, tangy feta cheese that just melts in your mouth. The rolls have a nice crunch thanks to their oven-fried coating, and the drizzle of sweet and spicy chili honey adds the perfect touch of zing that makes every bite exciting.
I love making these because they’re surprisingly easy to whip up but feel special enough for sharing with friends or enjoying as a tasty snack. The chili honey is my favorite part—I like to add just enough heat to make it interesting without overwhelming the creamy cheese inside. It’s a little flavor twist that always gets compliments.
My go-to way to serve these is on a small plate with extra chili honey on the side for dipping. They’re perfect for a casual gathering, and they pair nicely with a simple green salad or some fresh veggies. Whenever I bring these out, they disappear quickly, so I always make a double batch just in case!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: The star here is feta for its tangy, creamy texture. If you want a milder flavor, try halloumi or queso fresco, which also hold shape well when baked.
Wonton Wrappers: These create the crispy outer shell. If you can’t find them, spring roll wrappers or even phyllo dough can work. Just watch baking times as they may vary.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives extra crunch. You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but expect a less crisp texture. Adding sesame seeds boosts flavor and crunch, but you can skip or swap for crushed nuts like almonds if preferred.
Chili Honey: This adds a nice sweet-heat contrast. Use your favorite honey and adjust the chili flakes for spice level. For less heat, reduce flakes or try smoked paprika for a different flavor.
How Do You Keep the Feta Rolls Crispy and Prevent Filling from Leaking?
Sealing and coating the rolls properly is key to get that perfect crunch and keep cheese inside.
- Trim any excess wonton wrapper so edges meet without overlapping excess; this helps seal tightly.
- Use a brush or finger to wet the edges with water before folding—the water acts like glue to seal.
- After rolling, dip the entire roll in egg wash for a sticky layer to hold the breadcrumbs firmly.
- Press the breadcrumbs gently but firmly onto the rolls to fully coat.
- Place rolls seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent them from unrolling during baking.
- Lightly brushing or spraying olive oil before baking helps crisp the coating and browns evenly.
Following these tips means the rolls will bake up golden, crunchy, and hold their creamy feta inside without leaking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for even baking and crisping of the rolls.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps rolls from sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowls – for the egg wash, coating mix, and chili honey preparation.
- Whisk or fork – to beat the egg and whisk honey mixture smoothly.
- Brush (optional) – to apply olive oil evenly on rolls for extra crispness.
- Sharp knife – to cut the feta into even sticks for uniform rolling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap feta for halloumi for a milder, firmer cheese that grills well and stays intact.
- Add finely chopped fresh herbs like mint or dill inside the rolls for a fresh, bright taste.
- Mix some smoked paprika or cumin into the breadcrumb coating to add a warm, earthy flavor.
- Try drizzling with balsamic glaze instead of chili honey for a sweet and tangy twist.
How to Make Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 200g (7 oz) block of feta cheese
- 6 wonton wrappers (or spring roll wrappers)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds (white and black mix if possible)
- 1 tbsp crushed red chili flakes
- 1 tsp dried oregano or za’atar seasoning
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp milk or water (for egg wash)
- Olive oil spray or 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For Chili Honey:
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh rosemary or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to bake, so you’ll be ready to enjoy your crispy feta rolls in under 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a snack or a party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven Ready:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat to keep the rolls from sticking and make clean up easier.
2. Make the Chili Honey:
Mix together the honey, chili flakes, and lemon juice (if using) in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside—this will be your sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
3. Prepare the Crunchy Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, crushed red chili flakes, oregano (or za’atar), and black pepper. This gives your rolls that crispy, flavorful crust.
4. Whisk the Egg Wash:
In another bowl, beat the egg with the milk or water. This helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the rolls.
5. Roll the Feta:
Cut the block of feta into sticks about 1 inch thick and 3 inches long. Place one feta stick near a corner of a wonton wrapper. Roll the wrapper tightly around the feta, folding in the sides so it’s neatly sealed.
6. Coat Each Roll:
Dip the wrapped roll into the egg wash, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s fully coated. Do this for all your rolls to get them ready for baking.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Arrange the coated rolls on your lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil on all sides to help them become golden and crispy as they bake.
8. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the feta rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden and crunchy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the rolls out and let them cool for a minute. Arrange on a serving plate and drizzle with chili honey or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs and extra chili flakes on top for a colorful finish.
Can I Use Frozen Feta for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh, refrigerated feta to ensure a firm texture that holds up during baking. If using frozen feta, thaw it completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before rolling.
What Can I Substitute for Wonton Wrappers?
If wonton wrappers aren’t available, spring roll wrappers or phyllo dough work well. Just keep an eye on baking time, as phyllo can crisp faster and may need less time in the oven.
Can I Make the Chili Honey Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the chili honey up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. Stir before serving if the honey thickens.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover feta rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispy texture—avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.