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These spicy feta pastry nibbles turn basic ingredients into a wow-worthy starter that mixes smooth, creamy cheese with hot chilli and crunchy pastry. The touch of honey on top creates just the right sweet-savory balance that'll have everyone grabbing seconds.
I whipped these up when friends dropped by unexpectedly and they vanished right away. Now they've become my go-to appetizer that everyone asks me to make whenever they come over.
Ingredients
- Antoniou Fillo Pastry: Gives you those must-have crispy, flaky outer layers
- Butter: Creates that golden crunch and adds a rich taste
- Feta cheese: Makes a tangy, creamy middle that gets slightly melty in the oven
- Chilli flakes: Bring just enough fire; grab good ones for best results
- Sesame seeds: Add a nice crunch and toasty flavor
- Honey: For topping; cuts through the heat with natural sweetness
- Black sesame seeds: Make it pretty while adding subtle flavor notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Get The Pastry Ready:
- Let your fillo warm up naturally while still wrapped; this keeps it from breaking. Heat your oven to 180C with the fan on for that perfect crunch.
- Prep Your Tins:
- Coat muffin tins completely with melted butter so nothing sticks and to make the pastry extra tasty.
- Work With The Fillo:
- Put your fillo sheets on the counter and cut down the middle to make two equal piles. Brush the top sheet of each pile with plenty of butter right to the edges.
- Add Tasty Bits:
- Scatter chilli flakes and sesame seeds all over the buttered pastry so every bite gets good flavor.
- Roll Everything Up:
- Place feta strips along each pastry pile about 1.5cm from the edge. Fold the close edge over the cheese and roll it all up tightly so the filling stays put.
- Cut Into Pieces:
- With a sharp knife, cut each roll into 15 even pieces, making clean cuts for a nice look.
- Set Up For Baking:
- Put each piece into a muffin tin hole with the cut side up, then pour a spoonful of butter over each one so it gets between all the pastry layers.
- Bake Them:
- Cook for 35 minutes until everything turns nice and golden with crispy layers all the way through.
- Finish Them Off:
- Let them sit for five minutes after baking, then move to your serving dish, drizzle honey on top and sprinkle with black sesame seeds as the final touch.
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What really makes these stand out is how the chilli and honey work together. I found this combo during a vacation in Greece when I tried spicy cheese with honey drizzled on top. That taste stuck with me so much I just had to figure out how to make it at home.
Make Ahead Options
You can put these bites together and keep them in the fridge up to a day before you need to bake them. Just wrap the muffin tins with plastic and take them out about 20 minutes before cooking so they aren't too cold. You might need to cook them a few minutes longer if they're still cool. Or you can freeze them uncooked for up to a month and add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
Variation Ideas
The basic recipe works great, but you can switch things up based on what you like or what's in your kitchen. Try goat cheese instead of feta for more tang, or mix in some bacon bits with the cheese for extra flavor. If you love veggies, add some finely chopped roasted red peppers or spinach to the filling. Want it milder? Cut back on the chilli and toss in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme instead.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy chilli bites work great on a Mediterranean snack board with hummus, olives, and stuffed grape leaves. They're also perfect for passing around at parties. If you want something more filling, serve them with a simple Greek salad. They go really well with cool white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko, or even a light rosé that balances out the spicy, savory flavors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What stops Fillo Pastry from getting dry?
Cover Fillo Pastry with a damp towel while you're working to keep it from drying out.
- → Can these snacks be prepped early?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and bake them fresh right before serving.
- → What's the best honey to use?
Light floral honey pairs well with the feta's saltiness and chilli's spice.
- → How can I tweak the spice level?
Reduce chilli flakes for mild heat, or add more if you love extra spice.
- → Do I need specific sesame seeds?
White sesame seeds work fine, but black sesame adds a bold look and nutty taste.
- → What should I serve with these bites?
You can pair them with a fresh green salad, some olives, or a creamy dip like tzatziki.