Sweet Potato Rounds with Goat Cheese & Cranberries: A Festive and Flavorful Bite

Sweet Potato Rounds with Goat Cheese & Cranberries are the perfect bite-sized appetizer or side dish for any gathering. With tender roasted sweet potato slices topped with creamy goat cheese, tart cranberries, and a touch of honey or herbs, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. I love serving these when I want something simple yet elegant that always impresses guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, but the flavors come together in such a memorable way. The natural sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese and the brightness of dried cranberries. It’s also versatile—I can serve it warm or at room temperature, and it fits just as easily on a holiday table as it does at a casual brunch.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Sweet potatoes (medium-sized)

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Goat cheese (soft, crumbled)

• Dried cranberries

• Honey or maple syrup (optional)

• Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. I slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds, leaving the skins on for texture.

3. I toss the slices in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet.

4. I roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and the centers are tender.

5. Once the rounds are out of the oven, I let them cool slightly before topping each with a dollop of goat cheese.

6. I sprinkle dried cranberries over the cheese and, if I’m using it, drizzle with a bit of honey or maple syrup.

7. I finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and aroma.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 20 rounds, serving 4–6 as an appetizer. Prep time is 10 minutes, and roasting takes 20–25 minutes.

Variations

I like to try different twists depending on the season or the occasion:

• Use whipped feta or cream cheese instead of goat cheese.

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.

• Swap cranberries for pomegranate seeds for a fresh pop.

• Roast the sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of cinnamon or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, I place the rounds on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. I add the goat cheese and cranberries after reheating for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often roast the sweet potatoes ahead and store them. I assemble them with toppings just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I serve these cold?

They taste best slightly warm or at room temperature, but I’ve served them cold and they were still enjoyed.

What kind of goat cheese should I use?

I use soft, spreadable goat cheese for easy topping. Flavored varieties like honey or herb goat cheese also work well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I swap the goat cheese for a plant-based cheese spread. There are several creamy options that pair well with sweet potato and cranberries.

Are these good for holiday parties?

Absolutely. I love serving them during fall and winter events—they look festive and always get compliments.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Rounds with Goat Cheese & Cranberries are one of those simple recipes that feel special every time I make them. With their blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether I serve them as an appetizer, a side, or a festive snack, they always bring warmth and color to the table.