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These crispy fillo parcels with feta and chilli turn basic items into a showstopping starter that combines creamy cheese, spicy kick and flaky pastry. The touch of honey on top creates that perfect sweet-savory balance your guests won't stop reaching for.
I whipped these up for a surprise dinner gathering and they vanished in seconds. They've become my go-to appetizer that my friends always ask me to make when they come over.
Ingredients
- Antoniou Fillo Pastry: Creates those must-have crunchy layers that make everyone grab seconds
- Butter: Gets your pastry golden and flaky while adding richness
- Feta cheese: Forms the soft tangy middle that gets slightly melty when baked
- Chilli flakes: Give that perfect bit of heat; get good ones for best results
- Sesame seeds: Add nutty flavor and nice crunch
- Honey: For topping; balances the salty spicy elements with sweetness
- Black sesame seeds: For finishing touch; make it pretty and add subtle taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Get Your Pastry Ready:
- Let the fillo warm up to room temp while still wrapped; this keeps it from breaking. Heat your oven to 180C fan forced for that perfect crunch.
- Prep Your Tins:
- Brush muffin tins completely with melted butter so nothing sticks and to make the pastry extra tasty as it bakes.
- Work With The Fillo:
- Put your fillo stack on the counter and cut down the middle to make two equal piles. Brush the top sheet of each pile with lots of butter right to the edges for even browning.
- Add The Seasonings:
- Scatter chilli flakes and sesame seeds all over the buttered pastry so every bite has the same great taste.
- Roll Them Up:
- Put feta strips along each pastry pile, about 1.5cm from the edge. Fold the edge over the cheese and roll it up tightly so the filling stays put during baking.
- Cut Into Pieces:
- With a sharp knife, cut each roll into 15 even pieces, making clean cuts for a nice look.
- Get Ready To Bake:
- Set each piece in a muffin tin hole with the cut side up, then pour a tablespoon of butter over each one so it runs between all the pastry layers.
- Bake Them Up:
- Cook for 35 minutes until they turn beautifully golden and get crispy 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 to complete the look.
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What really makes these stand out is how the chilli plays with the honey. I found this amazing combo during a vacation in Greece when I tried honey poured over spicy cheese. That taste stuck with me so much I just had to try making something similar at home.
Make Ahead Options
You can put these together and keep them in the fridge up to 24 hours before you need to bake them. Just wrap the muffin tins with plastic and take them out about 20 minutes before cooking so they warm up a bit. You might need to cook them 3 to 5 minutes longer if they're still cold. You can also freeze them uncooked for up to a month - just add about 10 more minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
Variation Ideas
The standard version works great, but you can switch things up based on what you like or what's in your kitchen. Try using goat cheese instead of feta for more tang, or mix in some crumbled bacon with the cheese for a richer taste. If you love veggies, add some finely chopped roasted red peppers or spinach to the filling. Want it milder? Cut back on the chilli flakes and throw in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme.
Serving Suggestions
These feta bites fit perfectly on a Mediterranean snack board with hummus, olives, and stuffed grape leaves. They work great passed around at parties too. For something more filling, serve with a simple Greek salad on the side. They go really well with cool white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko, or even a light rosé that works nicely with the spicy, savory flavors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s the best way to stop Fillo from drying out?
Put a damp towel on top of the unused Fillo as you work to keep it from drying out.
- → Is it possible to prep these snacks early?
Definitely! Assemble them ahead of time, but bake right before serving to keep them extra crispy.
- → What kind of honey pairs well for drizzling?
Light, floral honey balances the salty and spicy combo beautifully.
- → Can I control the spiciness level?
Of course! Cut back on chilli flakes for mild heat or toss in more if you love spice.
- → Which sesame should I pick?
White sesame works great, but black sesame adds an eye-catching touch and deeper nutty flavor.
- → What pairs well with these fillo snacks?
Try pairing with a fresh green salad, a side of olives, or a creamy dip like tzatziki.