Sweet Potato Rounds with Toppings

This savory-sweet sweet potato appetizer transforms ordinary spuds into an elegant party starter or impressive side dish. The combination of creamy whipped goat cheese against the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes creates a perfect foundation for the tart cranberries and crunchy pecans to shine.

I first created these for a holiday gathering when I needed something that would please both my foodie friends and picky relatives. The empty platter at the end of the night told me everything I needed to know these little rounds are now requested at every family gathering.

Ingredients

• Sweet potatoes select firm ones with smooth skin for the most consistent rounds
• Goat cheese the tangy creaminess perfectly balances the sweet potatoes
• Milk helps create that luxuriously whipped texture in the cheese
• Fresh rosemary the piney aroma elevates the entire dish to gourmet status
• Olive oil helps achieve that perfect caramelized exterior
• Dried cranberries look for ones without added sugar if possible
• Toasted pecans freshly toasted have significantly more flavor than pre-packaged
• Honey a floral variety like orange blossom works beautifully here
• Kosher salt and black pepper essential for bringing all flavors to life

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Heat your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is crucial for developing caramelization on the sweet potatoes without making them soggy. While preheating, lightly spray your baking sheet with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Slice and Season

Cut sweet potatoes into rounds approximately ¼-inch thick. Consistency in thickness ensures even cooking. Toss them gently with olive oil making sure each piece is coated. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper which will help draw out moisture and intensify flavors.

Roast to Perfection

Arrange the rounds in a single layer with space between each piece. Overcrowding causes steaming rather than roasting. Bake for exactly 10 minutes then flip each round carefully with a thin spatula. Return to oven for another 8-12 minutes watching closely during the final minutes. The perfect round has a slightly crisp edge and tender center.

Whip the Cheese

While the potatoes roast create the whipped goat cheese. Allow the cheese to come to room temperature first for the smoothest result. Combine with milk fresh rosemary salt and pepper in a small bowl. Whip vigorously with a fork or use a hand mixer for extra fluffiness until the mixture resembles soft clouds.

Assemble with Care

Once potatoes have cooled slightly top each round with a small dollop about ½ teaspoon of the whipped goat cheese. The warmth of the potato will slightly melt the cheese creating the perfect texture contrast.

Garnish and Finish

Sprinkle each topped round with chopped toasted pecans and dried cranberries distributing evenly so every bite contains all elements. Finish with a light drizzle of honey moving your hand quickly to create thin streams rather than heavy pools.

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The first time I served these at a dinner party I noticed my normally reserved father-in-law sneaking seconds and thirds from the platter. The way rosemary complements the sweet potato creates an aromatic experience that makes these irresistible even to those who claim not to like sweet potatoes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

The assembled rounds will keep well at room temperature for up to 2 hours making them perfect for holiday buffets. If you need to make components ahead store roasted sweet potato rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped goat cheese mixture can be refrigerated separately for up to 5 days. For best results assemble just before serving or up to 30 minutes ahead if absolutely necessary.

Ingredient Substitutions

Not a fan of goat cheese? Substitute with whipped cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor profile. The rosemary can be swapped for thyme or sage depending on your preference. Pecans can be replaced with walnuts hazelnuts or even pepitas for a nut-free version. For a vegan adaptation use a plant-based cream cheese and replace honey with maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile rounds work beautifully as part of a larger appetizer spread alongside charcuterie and olives. They also make an impressive side dish paired with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. For a complete vegetarian meal serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The sweet-savory flavor profile pairs exceptionally well with sparkling wine or a light pinot noir.

Cultural Background

This modern appetizer draws inspiration from traditional American harvest celebrations where sweet potatoes have been featured prominently since colonial times. The addition of goat cheese reflects the French influence on contemporary American cuisine while the combination of cranberries and honey nods to indigenous food traditions of North America.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these sweet potato rounds ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the sweet potato rounds up to a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, then add the toppings. Alternatively, you can prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you don't enjoy goat cheese, cream cheese or ricotta make excellent substitutes. For a dairy-free option, whipped cashew cream works well. Each alternative will provide a different flavor profile but will still complement the sweet potatoes nicely.

→ How do I know when the sweet potato rounds are perfectly cooked?

The sweet potato rounds should be fork-tender and lightly caramelized around the edges. They should maintain their shape without becoming mushy. This typically takes about 20-22 minutes total in a 425°F oven, with a flip halfway through cooking.

→ What can I serve with these sweet potato rounds?

These rounds work beautifully as an appetizer on their own, but also pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve alongside a hearty soup or grain-based salad.

→ Are there other toppings I can try?

Absolutely! Try blue cheese with walnuts and honey, feta with pomegranate seeds, or even savory options like caramelized onions with gruyère. The sweet potato base works well with countless flavor combinations.

→ How thick should I slice the sweet potatoes?

Aim for ¼-inch thick rounds. This thickness allows them to roast properly without becoming too crisp or remaining undercooked in the center. Consistent thickness is key for even cooking, so consider using a mandoline slicer if available.