Sweet Potato Rounds with Cranberry and Cream Cheese
Table of Contents
Growing up, the kitchen was always the heart of our home. I remember chilly autumn afternoons when my mom would call us in from our leaf-pile jumping adventures. We’d huddle around the kitchen table, our cheeks flushed from the crisp air, ready to devour whatever deliciousness she had prepared. It was in those moments that I learned the true magic of a simple, home-cooked meal—how it could warm not just your body but your soul, too.
One of my all-time favorite recipes that encapsulates this warmth is Sweet Potato Rounds with Cranberry and Cream Cheese. It’s a dish that’s as cozy as a worn flannel blanket, and it’s perfect for those family gatherings or quiet evenings when you crave something comforting yet special. This recipe brings together the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the tang of cranberry sauce, and the creamy richness of cream cheese, topped off with the delightful crunch of toasted nuts. It’s an easy peasy way to bring a splash of autumn to your table any time of year.
Why do I love this recipe so much? Well, for starters, it’s like a little bite of nostalgia. Each round is a mini celebration of the fall flavors I adored as a child. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want a delightful snack, these rounds fit the bill. They’re a breeze to prepare, too, making them perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. And perhaps most importantly, they’re a fantastic way to gather loved ones around your table, creating new memories while savoring the old ones.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
There’s something undeniably special about this dish that makes it a must-have on your table. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those days when you want something tasty without the hassle. Secondly, the flavor combination is absolutely divine. The creamy, tangy, and sweet elements all balance beautifully, offering a taste experience that feels both indulgent and comforting. Thirdly, these rounds are visually stunning. The vibrant colors of the sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green thyme garnish make for a dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Finally, it’s health-conscious without sacrificing flavor. Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, and when paired with wholesome toppings, this dish is both nourishing and fulfilling.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To make these Sweet Potato Rounds with Cranberry and Cream Cheese, you’ll want to gather a few kitchen essentials. Don’t worry, nothing complicated here—just the basics to keep things easy peasy:
- A sharp knife for slicing the sweet potatoes into those perfect half-inch rounds. A good knife ensures even slices, which help the rounds cook uniformly.
- A baking sheet lined with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and non-stick roasting. Parchment paper also helps avoid uneven cooking by distributing heat more evenly.
- A basting brush to evenly coat the sweet potato rounds with olive oil. This ensures that each piece roasts to a perfect golden brown, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- A mixing bowl for your cream cheese (to soften it to the perfect consistency). Room temperature cream cheese is easier to spread, ensuring an even layer on each round.
- A spatula or butter knife for spreading the cream cheese smoothly onto each round. A spatula can help achieve a professional-looking finish.
- And of course, a reliable oven, preheated to the perfect temperature for roasting. A well-calibrated oven ensures your sweet potatoes are cooked perfectly.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
INGREDIENTS
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (60 g) cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons (20 g) chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange sweet potato rounds in a single layer on the sheet. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are golden and centers are tender. The flipping ensures both sides are equally caramelized.
- Spread softened cream cheese on each round. A thin even layer works best to balance the flavors.
- Top with cranberry sauce and sprinkle with toasted nuts. The nuts add a contrasting texture, making each bite more interesting.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve warm. The thyme not only adds color but a slight herbal note that elevates the flavor.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 25 minutes • Total Time: 35 minutes • Calories: 150 • Servings: 4
Note: For a little extra zing, try using a flavored cream cheese like chive or garlic and herb. These variations can add an unexpected twist to the classic flavors.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
Sweet potatoes are truly a gift from nature. Not only are they deliciously sweet and satisfying, but they’re also packed with vitamins and minerals. They’re an excellent source of vitamin A, which is crucial for maintaining good vision and a healthy immune system.
Pairing sweet potatoes with cranberries adds a burst of antioxidants along with a tart flavor that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the cheese. Cranberries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to support heart health, making them a wonderful addition to your diet.
The cream cheese brings a rich, creamy texture to the dish while offering a source of calcium. Opting for a reduced-fat version can help keep this dish on the lighter side without compromising on flavor.
Lastly, the toasted nuts not only provide a satisfying crunch but also bring healthy fats and proteins to the table, enhancing both the health benefits and the overall flavor profile of this dish.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
These Sweet Potato Rounds with Cranberry and Cream Cheese are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a truly memorable meal, serve them alongside a roasted chicken or turkey, which complements the sweet and savory notes of the rounds perfectly. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider setting out a platter of these rounds as an appetizer, paired with a crisp, green salad or a light soup, like a butternut squash or tomato basil, to round out the flavors.
For a more casual setting, these rounds are an excellent addition to a brunch spread. Pair them with scrambled eggs or a frittata for a hearty, satisfying meal. And if you’re looking to keep things vegetarian, try serving them with a hearty grain salad or a dish of roasted seasonal vegetables.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
If you happen to have any leftovers of these delightful rounds, you’re in luck because they store beautifully and can be easily reheated or repurposed. To store, simply place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they’re warmed through. Alternatively, you can enjoy them cold, which makes for a refreshing snack or light meal.
For a creative twist on leftovers, try chopping up the rounds and adding them to a mixed greens salad for a hearty lunch. The combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors will elevate your salad game to new heights. Or, dice them up and toss them into a quinoa or grain bowl for a filling dinner option.
As I wrap up my kitchen chat with you, I hope this recipe brings a slice of warmth and nostalgia to your table, just as it has to mine. Whether you’re making these for the first time or the fiftieth, remember that the joy of cooking lies in the simple moments we share with loved ones around the table. So gather your ingredients, invite someone you love into the kitchen, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious together.
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Sweet Potato Rounds with Cranberry and Cream Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange sweet potato rounds in a single layer on the sheet. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are golden and centers are tender.
- Spread softened cream cheese on each round.
- Top with cranberry sauce and sprinkle with toasted nuts.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve warm.
