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Crispy Feta Bites with Roasted Cranberry Maple Sauce Recipe

Crispy Feta Bites with Roasted Cranberry Maple Sauce Recipe

4.7 from 13 reviews

These Crispy Feta Bites with Roasted Cranberry Maple Sauce offer a delightful combination of salty, crunchy feta cheese paired with a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, this recipe balances textures and flavors beautifully, enhanced with fresh herbs and a touch of maple syrup.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Feta Bites

  • 8 oz feta cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Roasted Cranberry Maple Sauce

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp orange juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Pinch of salt

Garnish

  • Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • Extra maple drizzle (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Cranberry Maple Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, toss the cranberries with maple syrup, orange juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare Feta Bites: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes – one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each feta cube first in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the feta bites for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  3. Serve: Arrange the crispy feta bites on a serving platter. Spoon the roasted cranberry maple sauce over or alongside the bites. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary and drizzle additional maple syrup if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use firm, chilled feta for easier cutting and breading.
  • Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • For a vegetarian-friendly version, ensure the egg is from free-range sources or use an egg substitute for vegan adaptation.
  • Serve immediately after frying to maintain crispiness.
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary enhance flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Leftover cranberry sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crispy feta bites, roasted cranberry sauce, maple sauce, appetizer, cheese bites, panko fried feta, cranberry maple sauce, easy appetizers