Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of roasted sweet potatoes fills the kitchen, an inviting signal that something special is on the way. If you’re ready to elevate your appetizer game, these Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries are sure to impress. This delightful dish marries a rainbow of flavors and textures, making it an easy yet sophisticated choice for any gathering. Not only are they vegetarian and gluten-free, but they’re also a fantastic way to work in seasonal ingredients while keeping prep simple. Whether you’re hosting a festive soirée or craving a wholesome snack, these roasted rounds are the perfect fit. Curious about how to bring this colorful creation to your table? Let’s dig into the details! Why will you love these sweet potato rounds? Colorful Presentation: This dish is not just delicious; it’s a feast for the eyes. Perfect for parties, these vibrant sweet potato rounds will steal the spotlight on any appetizer platter. Nutty Goodness comes from crispy walnuts that add an irresistible crunch. Healthy and Wholesome, they’re packed with vitamins and nutrients, making them the ideal guilt-free indulgence. Quick to Prepare, you can have these ready in just under 30 minutes, perfect for unexpected guests! Try serving them alongside Baked Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Parmesan for a delightful spread! Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta Ingredients Get ready to brighten up your appetizers with these Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries! For the Sweet Potato Rounds Sweet Potatoes – These are the star of the dish, offering a naturally sweet and creamy flavor once roasted. Substitution: Butternut squash can be used for a similar texture and flavor. Olive Oil – A drizzle helps those rounds roast beautifully while adding richness. Note: Feel free to use any neutral oil, such as avocado oil. Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors and seasoning the layers. Adjust to taste for the best results. For the Topping Ricotta Cheese – Adds a creamy, fresh element that complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Substitution: Goat cheese or whipped feta works for a tangy twist. Fresh Thyme – Provides a delightful aromatic touch to the ricotta. Substitution: Rosemary or chives can be lovely alternatives. Dried Cranberries – Offers a sweet-tart contrast and chewy texture to the dish. Substitution: Raisins or chopped dried apricots can be used for a different flavor. Chopped Walnuts – Brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to each bite. Substitution: Pecans or pumpkin seeds work well if you prefer a nut-free option. Embrace the deliciousness of these Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries, making them the perfect healthy appetizer or snack for any occasion! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will make your cleaning process much easier. As your oven warms, get your sweet potatoes ready by washing and peeling them, ensuring a lovely, clean base for your roasted sweet potato rounds. Step 2: Slice and Season Once the oven is preheated, slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds to ensure even cooking. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the rounds and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. These simple seasonings will enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes while they roast to perfection. Step 3: Roast the Rounds Slide the baking sheet into the oven and roast the sweet potato rounds for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, gently flip them to ensure they cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden color. You’ll know they’re done when they are tender to the fork and have caramelized edges, tantalizing you with their delicious aroma. Step 4: Prepare the Herbed Ricotta While the sweet potatoes are roasting, grab a small bowl and mix together the ricotta cheese, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well-combined and creamy. Set this herbed mixture aside; it will soon elevate your roasted sweet potato rounds into a flavorful, sophisticated appetizer that’s vibrant and comforting. Step 5: Assemble the Appetizer Once the sweet potato rounds are perfectly roasted and have cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble this tasty treat. Top each round generously with the herbed ricotta mixture. The creaminess of the ricotta will beautifully complement the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. Feel free to get creative with the dollop of ricotta for visual appeal! Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches Now, sprinkle chopped walnuts and dried cranberries atop each sweet potato round for that satisfying crunch and a pop of color. The walnuts will add a nutty richness, while the cranberries bring a sweet-tart contrast that balances the dish perfectly. These delightful garnishes complete your gorgeous Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Finally, serve your assembled sweet potato rounds warm or at room temperature. Arrange them on a beautiful platter, inviting guests to savor these irresistible bites. Watch as your creation becomes the highlight of the gathering, filling the air with delightful flavors and encouraging everyone to indulge in this healthy vegetarian appetizer! What to Serve with Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries? Enjoy creating an unforgettable meal with these delightful bites as your centerpiece! Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These classic comfort potatoes bring a smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of your rounds. Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor and slight bitterness of these sprouts will balance the sweetness, making each bite harmonious. Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with citrus dressing will brighten your plate, contrasting the warm, creamy appetizers perfectly. Delight your guests with an inviting spread that includes a colorful array of appetizers. Savory Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-packed side adds a nutty flavor that complements the textures of both the sweet potatoes and ricotta. Toasted Baguette Slices: Serve these with a drizzle of olive oil; they make a crispy accent to the soft, flavorful rounds. Cranberry Spritzer: A refreshing drink, slightly tart and sweet, enhancing the fruity notes in your appetizers. Finish off this enticing meal with a simple dessert, bringing everything full circle. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These bite-sized treats will add a sweet finish, balancing the savory tones of your appetizer ensemble. Storage Tips for Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will maintain the freshness of your Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries. Freezer: If you want to freeze them, individually wrap the cooled rounds in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, place the rounds in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain their texture and flavors after freezing. Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the sweet potatoes and mix the herbed ricotta a day in advance. Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness and presentation. Expert Tips for Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds Slice Uniformly: Ensure all sweet potato rounds are the same thickness for even roasting, preventing some from burning while others are undercooked. Herb Variations: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or chives in the herbed ricotta for different flavor profiles that can enhance your roasted sweet potato rounds. Nut Alternatives: If you need a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without allergens. Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes towards the end of the cooking time; they should be golden and tender but not overly browned. Prep Ahead: You can assemble the rounds a few hours in advance and refrigerate them before serving. Allow them to come to room temperature for the best flavor experience. Make Ahead Options These Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors with minimal effort! You can roast the sweet potato rounds up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The herbed ricotta can also be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated in a sealed container. To maintain the best quality, assemble the dish with walnuts and cranberries right before serving to ensure they stay crunchy. When ready to enjoy, just reheat the sweet potato rounds in the oven until warmed through, top with herbed ricotta, and savor this delightful appetizer! Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds Variations & Substitutions Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists to personalize your Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds experience! Dairy-Free: Replace ricotta with cashew cream for a creamy, plant-based alternative that still delivers fantastic flavor. Nut-Free Crunch: Swap walnuts for pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to achieve satisfying crunch without the nuts, making it safe for those with allergies. Herb Swaps: Try using fresh basil or oregano in your ricotta mix for an aromatic twist that will excite your taste buds. The fragrance of these herbs will brighten up the whole dish! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the ricotta for a spicy punch. It beautifully complements the sweetness of the potatoes and adds another layer of flavor to enjoy. Savory Topping: Instead of cranberries, switch to caramelized onions for a savory-sweet option that will elevate your appetizer into a gourmet delight. The depth of flavor here is simply divine. Bright Citrus: Grate some lemon or orange zest over the assembled rounds for a fresh, citrusy zing that cuts through the richness of the ricotta and enhances the overall flavor profile. Balsamic Drizzle: A drizzle of balsamic reduction before serving adds a tangy sweetness that beautifully contrasts the flavors of the sweet potato and ricotta. Your guests won’t be able to resist! Cheesy Delight: For a twist on flavor, sprinkle some grated parmesan over the rounds before roasting for an umami kick that will have everyone asking for seconds. With these variations in mind, you can transform your Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds into a never-ending source of joy and creativity! Want even more delicious ideas? Try pairing these rounds with Burrata Brown Butter for an unforgettable appetizer spread! Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries Recipe FAQs What type of sweet potatoes should I use for this recipe? I recommend using medium to large sweet potatoes that are firm with smooth skin. Avoid those with dark spots or blemishes, as these can affect the taste and texture of your dish. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash is a great substitute with a similar flavor profile. How should I store leftover roasted sweet potato rounds? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, they stay fresh and ready to enjoy later! If you want to prepare them ahead, you can bake the sweet potatoes and mix the ricotta, then assemble just before serving. Can I freeze the roasted sweet potato rounds? Absolutely! For freezing, after they have cooled, wrap each sweet potato round individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture. What if my sweet potato rounds are too soft when roasting? If your sweet potato rounds become too soft or mushy, it may be due to overcooking. Make sure you are slicing them uniformly to avoid uneven cooking, and check them around the 20-minute mark. Roasting them at the right temperature is essential, so be cautious not to exceed 25 minutes for ideal tenderness. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? This recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian, making it suitable for various dietary needs! If you have nut allergies, you can easily swap the walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture without worry. Always check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens. How can I enhance the flavor of the herbed ricotta? For a more exciting herbed ricotta, consider adding minced garlic or a sprinkle of lemon zest for zing. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick! Mixing in a combination of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the flavor. Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta Delight Elevate your appetizer game with Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Herbed Ricotta, Walnuts, and Cranberries, blending vibrant flavors and textures. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 roundsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sweet Potato Rounds2 medium Sweet Potatoes Substitution: Butternut squash can be used for similar texture and flavor.2 tbsp Olive Oil Feel free to use any neutral oil, such as avocado oil.to taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Topping1 cup Ricotta Cheese Substitution: Goat cheese or whipped feta works for a tangy twist.2 tbsp Fresh Thyme Substitution: Rosemary or chives can be lovely alternatives.1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Substitution: Raisins or chopped dried apricots can be used for a different flavor.1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts Substitution: Pecans or pumpkin seeds work well for nut-free option. Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment paperMixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds and arrange them on the baking sheet.Drizzle olive oil over the rounds and season with salt and pepper before roasting for 20-25 minutes.While roasting, mix ricotta, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until creamy.Top the roasted rounds with the herbed ricotta mixture once cooked.Sprinkle chopped walnuts and dried cranberries on top for garnish.Serve warm or at room temperature on a beautiful platter. Nutrition Serving: 1roundCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesSlice uniformly for even roasting and experiment with herbs for different flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!