Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts

These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts are the kind of appetizer that stops people mid-bite and makes them say, “Wait, what is this?” It’s a blend of cozy and elegant, with roasted sweet potato slices acting as a warm, caramelized base for gooey melted Brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crunchy toasted walnuts. The flavor balance is stunning—sweet, creamy, tart, and nutty all at once—and they just happen to be gorgeous on a platter too.

Behind the Recipe

The inspiration for this recipe came from a holiday gathering years ago, when I was trying to create something seasonal, vegetarian-friendly, and bite-sized. I had leftover cranberry sauce and a wheel of Brie, and sweet potatoes were roasting for dinner. One spontaneous layering experiment later, these stunning rounds were born—and they’ve been on my menu every fall and winter since. They’re festive, but simple enough to make any time you’re craving something special.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Though this appetizer feels like a modern creation, it’s built on timeless combinations. Brie and cranberry have long been paired in French and British cuisine, celebrated for their rich and tart interplay. Sweet potatoes have deep roots in North American cooking, especially in holiday dishes. This recipe blends these traditions into a single bite that feels both nostalgic and new.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts

These aren’t just appetizers—they’re flavor-packed conversation starters. Here’s what makes them shine:

Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or elegant side.

Budget-Friendly: Only a few ingredients, and they stretch to feed a crowd.

Quick and Easy: Roast, layer, and serve—done in under 30 minutes.

Customizable: Swap in different cheeses or toppings to make them your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: A hit at any gathering, from Thanksgiving to wine night.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast the potatoes and prep toppings ahead.

Great for Leftovers: Delicious even at room temp—no reheating stress.

Print

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A few insider tricks take this from good to unforgettable:

• Cut rounds evenly: Aim for ¼-inch thick for uniform roasting.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread slices out so they caramelize, not steam.
• Use double cream Brie: It melts smoother and creamier.
• Toast the walnuts: Brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor.
• Add toppings just before serving: Keeps textures perfect.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Just a few basics to make this magic happen:

Sharp Knife: For clean, even sweet potato slices.

Baking Sheet: Essential for roasting your rounds to perfection.

Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and aids easy cleanup.

Small Spoon or Offset Spatula: For layering cranberry and Brie.

Toaster Oven or Broiler: To gently melt the Brie if needed.

Ingredients in Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts

Every ingredient here plays a starring role—simple, but perfectly balanced.

1. Sweet Potatoes: 2 medium (sliced into ¼-inch rounds) — earthy, sweet base that roasts to tender perfection.
2. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons — helps caramelize and crisp the edges.
3. Salt: ½ teaspoon — enhances natural sweetness.
4. Brie Cheese: 6 ounces (cut into small slices) — rich, creamy, and luxurious.
5. Cranberry Sauce: ½ cup — sweet-tart pop that balances the richness.
6. Walnuts: ¼ cup (toasted and chopped) — adds crunch and nutty depth.
7. Fresh Thyme (optional): 1 teaspoon — for a fragrant herbal finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to switch things up? Here’s how:

Sweet Potatoes: Try butternut squash rounds or roasted parsnips.

Brie Cheese: Camembert or creamy goat cheese.

Cranberry Sauce: Fig jam or pomegranate molasses.

Walnuts: Pecans or almonds work just as well.

Ingredient Spotlight

Brie Cheese: This soft French cheese becomes decadently gooey when heated. Its mild richness contrasts beautifully with sweet and tart flavors.

Cranberry Sauce: Not just for turkey—its zippy brightness elevates these bites with vibrant acidity and color.

Instructions for Making Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts

Let’s bring this holiday-worthy appetizer to life. Here are the steps you’re going to follow:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Slice sweet potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Toss with olive oil and salt in a bowl until evenly coated.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Arrange sweet potato rounds in a single layer on the baking sheet.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Roast for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender. Once slightly cooled, top each with a slice of Brie.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Return to oven for 2–3 minutes just to melt the Brie (optional). Remove and let sit for 2 minutes.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Add a dollop of cranberry sauce, sprinkle with toasted walnuts, and a few thyme leaves if using.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Arrange on a serving platter and enjoy warm or at room temperature. They’ll disappear fast!

Texture & Flavor Secrets

Every round hits multiple notes—crispy-edged sweet potato, molten Brie, tart cranberry burst, and a nutty crunch. The blend of soft, creamy, and crunchy keeps every bite exciting, with a satisfying contrast of warm and cool elements.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For easy, impressive results, remember:

• Use parchment for even roasting and easy cleanup.
• Choose similar-sized sweet potatoes for consistent slices.
• Slightly soften the Brie for easier slicing.
• Chill cranberry sauce—it holds shape better when spooned.

What to Avoid

Steer clear of these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking sweet potatoes—they’ll fall apart when lifted.
• Using cold Brie—it won’t melt as nicely.
• Overloading toppings—balance is key in each bite.
• Skipping the salt—sweet potatoes need it to shine.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 180
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Roast sweet potato rounds and prepare toppings up to a day ahead. Store components separately in the fridge. Assemble and warm just before serving. Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated, though they’re delicious cold too.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts

Serve on a rustic wooden board or elegant white platter. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for a seasonal look. Pair with sparkling wine, cider, or a festive mocktail for the ultimate appetizer experience.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let a single round go to waste:

• Chop and toss into a salad with arugula and vinaigrette.
• Stack onto a sandwich for a gourmet twist.
• Mash into a warm spread with extra Brie and cranberry.

Additional Tips

• Use a serrated knife to cleanly slice Brie.
• A small cookie scoop makes cranberry layering easy.
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch.

Make It a Showstopper

Plate with microgreens or edible flowers for pop. Serve in individual mini cupcake liners for easy grabbing. Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic reduction for extra flair.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add a sliver of jalapeño or hot honey.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan Brie and maple-glazed sweet potatoes.
• Apple-Cranberry Twist: Add thin apple slices under the Brie.
• Blue Cheese Bold: Sub Brie with gorgonzola for tangier bites.
• Pomegranate Pop: Sprinkle arils instead of cranberry sauce.

FAQ’s

Q1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Roast sweet potatoes and prep toppings in advance, then assemble just before serving.

Q2. Can I use canned cranberry sauce?

Absolutely—whole berry style works best for texture.

Q3. What kind of sweet potatoes should I use?

Look for medium-sized orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for sweetness and color.

Q4. Is there a way to keep Brie from melting too much?

Chill it before slicing and avoid overheating once added to the rounds.

Q5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based Brie alternatives and skip the cheese melting step.

Q6. How do I toast walnuts?

Heat in a dry skillet over medium for 2–3 minutes, stirring often.

Q7. Can I double the recipe?

Definitely—just roast in batches for best texture.

Q8. Will these hold up at room temperature?

Yes, they’re delicious warm or at room temp for up to two hours.

Q9. What’s a good drink pairing?

Try sparkling wine, apple cider, or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc.

Q10. Are these gluten-free?

Yes, naturally gluten-free with no grains involved.

Conclusion

These Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts are the kind of appetizer that brings holiday magic to any table. They’re stunning to serve, easy to make, and every bite delivers layers of cozy, gourmet goodness. Trust me, it’s worth every slice, smear, and sprinkle.

Watch How To Make Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry & Walnuts