Sweet Potato Rounds with Goat Cheese are a stunning appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Roasted sweet potato slices become the perfect base for tangy goat cheese, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs or nuts. The result is a bite-sized treat that’s creamy, caramelized, and irresistibly flavorful.
I discovered this recipe while looking for a lighter, gluten-free party appetizer. It’s become one of my go-to dishes for holidays and gatherings because it’s simple, elegant, and always gets compliments. Each bite balances sweet, salty, and savory a combination that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to pull off.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
- Easy to prepare with just a few ingredients
- Perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and savory flavors
- Great for holidays, parties, or healthy snacks
- Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz (115 g) goat cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Crushed pistachios
- Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange sweet potato rounds in a single layer and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Goat Cheese Topping
While the potatoes are roasting, mix the softened goat cheese with honey and chopped herbs until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt if desired.
Step 3: Assemble the Rounds
Once the sweet potato rounds are done, let them cool for 5 minutes. Spread about 1 teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture on each round.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Drizzle with extra honey, sprinkle with herbs, and top with chopped nuts or cranberries for added texture and color.
Step 5: Serve
Arrange on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature. Each bite will be sweet, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
Chef’s Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Rounds
- Slice the sweet potatoes evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Use a silicone brush for an even coating of oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — roasted rounds should have space to crisp.
- Let the sweet potatoes cool slightly before topping so the cheese doesn’t melt completely.
- Use whipped goat cheese for extra smoothness.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap goat cheese for cream cheese or feta for a milder flavor.
- Add caramelized onions or prosciutto for a savory version.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.
- Try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a hint of spice.
- Replace sweet potatoes with roasted butternut squash rounds for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet potato rounds are versatile and pair well with any menu.
- Serve as a holiday appetizer at Thanksgiving or Christmas.
- Add to a charcuterie board for color and texture.
- Enjoy as a healthy snack or side dish with salads or soups.
- Pair with sparkling wine, cider, or a light white wine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting the slices too thick or too thin, leading to uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, which prevents caramelization.
- Using cold goat cheese that’s hard to spread.
- Forgetting to flip the rounds halfway for even browning.
- Adding toppings too early, causing sogginess.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Roast the sweet potatoes ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes before assembling.
- Assemble just before serving for best texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Nutrition Facts (per piece, approx.)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Vitamin A: 70% DV
Sweet Potato Rounds with Goat Cheese
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone brush for brushing oil
- Knife to slice sweet potatoes
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- crushed pistachios (optional topping)
- dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds (optional)
- balsamic glaze (optional drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. Arrange sweet potato rounds in a single layer and brush with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
- Mix goat cheese with honey and herbs until smooth. Add a pinch of salt if needed.
- Let roasted rounds cool for 5 minutes. Spread about 1 tsp goat cheese mixture on each round.
- Drizzle with extra honey, sprinkle herbs, and top with nuts or dried fruit if desired.
- Arrange on a serving platter and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Nutrition
Elegant, Easy, and Unforgettable
Sweet Potato Rounds with Goat Cheese are the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. The creamy goat cheese pairs beautifully with caramelized sweet potatoes, while the honey and herbs add depth and freshness.
Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or festive snack, these bites are guaranteed to impress your guests and add a touch of color and flavor to your table.
