Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfect Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey. Don’t be intimidated by phyllo dough; with a little patience, it’s easier than you think!

1. Prepare the Feta: Gently pat the block of feta cheese dry with paper towels. This helps the phyllo dough adhere better. You want to remove excess moisture so the rolls bake up crispy.
2. Thaw Phyllo Dough (if frozen): If using frozen phyllo dough, make sure it’s fully thawed according to package instructions. This is crucial to prevent tearing. Usually, thawing in the refrigerator overnight is recommended. Once thawed, keep it covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out while you work.
3. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
4. Assemble the Rolls – Layering the Phyllo: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean, flat surface. Brush it lightly with olive oil. Top with another sheet of phyllo dough and brush again with olive oil. Repeat this process until you have a stack of 4-5 phyllo sheets. Brushing each layer with olive oil is key to achieving that flaky, crispy texture.
5. Cut the Phyllo Stack: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the stack of phyllo sheets lengthwise into strips that are slightly wider than the block of feta. You should aim for strips that are approximately 2-3 inches wide. The length will depend on the size of your phyllo sheets and how many rolls you want to make. For an 8oz block of feta, you’ll likely get 4-6 rolls depending on how you cut them.
6. Place Feta & Roll: Place the block of feta at one end of a phyllo strip. Fold the phyllo dough over the feta, tucking in the sides as you roll it up tightly, like a cigar. Make sure the feta is fully enclosed in the phyllo.
7. Repeat Rolling: Repeat steps 4-6 with the remaining phyllo dough and feta to create more rolls. You might need to create multiple stacks of phyllo depending on the size of your sheets and how many rolls you are aiming for.
8. Brush Rolls with Olive Oil: Place the rolled feta rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops and sides of each roll generously with olive oil. This is what helps them get beautifully golden and crispy in the oven.
9. Sprinkle with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle the tops of the feta rolls evenly with a mixture of white and black sesame seeds. This adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
10. Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the phyllo rolls are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent burning, as ovens can vary.
11. Prepare Chili Honey While Baking: While the feta rolls are baking, prepare the chili honey. In a small saucepan, combine honey, chili flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Heat over low heat, stirring until the honey is warmed through and the chili flakes have infused their flavor, about 5-7 minutes. Do not boil. Taste and adjust the amount of chili flakes to your liking. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if desired.
12. Cool Slightly & Drizzle: Once the feta rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle and allows the feta to settle a bit.
13. Drizzle with Chili Honey: Generously drizzle the warm chili honey over the baked feta rolls. You can also serve the chili honey on the side for dipping, if preferred.
14. Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs (if using) and serve immediately while warm and crispy. These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness.