Sweet Potato Wedges with Hot Honey Whipped Feta & Cranberry Dust: A Sweet and Savory Sensation
Imagine a plate of perfectly roasted sweet potato wedges, their edges caramelized and crisp, their interiors fluffy and warm. Now picture them resting on a cloud of impossibly smooth, tangy whipped feta. To finish, a generous drizzle of spicy-sweet hot honey and a vibrant sprinkle of tart cranberry dust cascades over everything. This recipe for sweet potato wedges with hot honey whipped feta is not just a side dish; it is a full sensory experience that will become your new culinary obsession.
The magic of this dish lies in its masterful balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a crucial role. The earthy sweetness of the roasted sweet potato wedges provides a sturdy, comforting base. Subsequently, the cool, salty creaminess of the whipped feta cuts through the richness. Meanwhile, the hot honey introduces a gentle, warming heat and a floral sweetness that ties everything together. Finally, the cranberry dust adds a pop of color and a necessary tangy bite that keeps each mouthful exciting and light.
Furthermore, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a stunning appetizer for a dinner party, a show-stopping side for a holiday feast, or even as a satisfying vegetarian main course. The process is straightforward, and the result looks and tastes like it came from a professional kitchen. Ultimately, these sweet potato wedges are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: These sweet potato wedges offer a spectacular sweet and savory dance. The natural sweetness of the potato is enhanced by roasting, which contrasts beautifully with the salty, tangy feta. The hot honey adds a spicy kick and floral notes, while the cranberry dust provides a sharp, fruity acidity that balances the entire dish.
- Texture: This recipe is a textural masterpiece. You get a crispy, almost caramelized exterior on the sweet potato wedges that gives way to a soft, fluffy interior. The whipped feta is luxuriously smooth and creamy, creating a perfect bed for the crisp wedges. The cranberry dust adds a subtle, sandy crunch that completes the sensory journey.
- Aroma: As the sweet potato wedges roast, your kitchen will fill with a warm, sugary, and earthy scent. The whipped feta brings a mild, milky tang to the air. When you drizzle the hot honey, notes of warm spice and floral sweetness mingle, creating an incredibly inviting and complex aroma that promises a delicious meal.
- Visual Appeal: The presentation is nothing short of stunning. The vibrant orange of the sweet potato wedges pops against the stark white of the whipped feta. The deep red cranberry dust and glossy amber hot honey create a beautiful, festive color palette that looks elegant and appetizing on any table.
- Skill Level Needed: This recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels, especially beginners. The techniques involved—cutting wedges, whisking a dip, and making a simple dust—are fundamental. There is no fancy equipment or advanced culinary skill required to achieve a professional-looking and tasting result.
- Special Equipment: You need only very basic kitchen tools. A good baking sheet is essential for achieving crispy sweet potato wedges. A food processor or high-speed blender makes the whipped feta incredibly smooth, but a sturdy fork and some elbow grease can work in a pinch. Beyond that, you just need a knife and a mixing bowl.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: We classify this recipe as easy because it breaks down into simple, manageable steps. The most complex task is cutting the sweet potatoes into even wedges, which is a straightforward knife skill. The whipped feta comes together in minutes in a processor, and the cranberry dust is simply pulsed dried fruit. Consequently, even a novice cook can execute this dish with confidence and success.
- Category: This dish is incredibly versatile in its categorization. It shines brightest as an impressive appetizer or a standout side dish for roasted meats, poultry, or holiday feasts. Additionally, it is substantial enough to serve as a vegetarian main course, perhaps with a simple green salad on the side. It truly fits multiple meal categories with ease.
- Cuisine: This recipe is a modern fusion dish that draws from American comfort food and Mediterranean influences. The use of sweet potatoes is a classic American staple, while whipped feta dips have their roots in Greek and Turkish meze spreads. The hot honey trend has Southern American origins, making this a wonderfully global and contemporary creation.
- Cost: This is a very cost-effective recipe to prepare. Sweet potatoes are an affordable root vegetable available year-round. Feta cheese and dried cranberries are pantry staples that are typically budget-friendly. The honey and spices are used in small quantities, making the overall cost per serving quite reasonable for such a gourmet-tasting dish.
- Season: While this recipe works wonderfully any time of year, it feels particularly special during the fall and winter seasons. The warm spices in the hot honey and the earthy sweetness of the roasted sweet potato wedges embody cozy, comfort food. Furthermore, the red and white color scheme makes it a perfect fit for holiday tables from Thanksgiving through Christmas.
- Occasion: This dish is ideal for a wide range of occasions. Serve it at a casual game-day gathering, a festive holiday party, or an elegant dinner soirée. It is also a fantastic upgrade for a weeknight dinner when you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen. Its flexibility is one of its greatest strengths.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First and foremost, the taste and texture appeal of these sweet potato wedges is undeniable. Every bite delivers a complex symphony of flavors. You experience the initial crispness of the wedge, followed by its soft, sweet interior. Then, the cool, salty creaminess of the whipped feta coats your palate. The hot honey cuts through with a warm, spicy sweetness, and the cranberry dust finishes with a tangy, fruity zing. This combination is so addictive and satisfying that it is hard to stop at just one serving. The interplay between hot and cold, sweet and savory, creamy and crunchy is culinary perfection.
Another significant benefit is the sheer convenience and straightforward preparation. Unlike many impressive-looking dishes, this one does not require advanced planning or complicated techniques. The sweet potato wedges are simply tossed in oil and spices, then roasted until perfect. The whipped feta takes mere minutes to blend into a smooth, fluffy dip. The cranberry dust is just pulsed dried fruit. You can have this stunning dish on the table in under an hour, with most of that time being hands-off while the wedges roast in the oven.
From a nutritional standpoint, this recipe offers several advantages. Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with beta-carotene, Vitamin A, and fiber. Baking them as wedges is a healthier alternative to frying. Feta cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, and using it in a whipped form helps a little go a longer way. The honey offers natural sweetness, and the cranberries contribute antioxidants. When enjoyed in balance, this dish is a flavorful way to incorporate beneficial ingredients into your diet.
The social and entertaining value of this dish cannot be overstated. It is an absolute showstopper on any buffet or dinner table. The vibrant colors and elegant presentation are guaranteed to draw compliments and curiosity from your guests. It is a fantastic conversation starter and makes people feel truly catered to. Because it can be served as a shareable appetizer or a plated side, it adapts to any social setting, from a large, casual party to an intimate, formal dinner.
Finally, this recipe is remarkably cost-effective and accessible. The ingredients are not exotic or expensive. Sweet potatoes, feta, honey, and dried cranberries are readily available at any standard grocery store. You do not need any special or expensive equipment to make it. This accessibility means that anyone can recreate this gourmet-tasting experience at home without breaking the bank. It is a restaurant-quality dish made with everyday, affordable ingredients, which is perhaps its most appealing feature of all.
Historical Background and Cultural Significance
The story of this dish begins with its individual components, each with a rich history. The sweet potato, a cornerstone of this recipe, has a long and global journey. Originally cultivated in Central or South America over 5,000 years ago, it was eventually carried across the globe by European explorers. It became a staple in the American South, where its natural sweetness was celebrated in both savory and sweet preparations. The concept of cutting them into wedges and roasting them is a modern twist on classic roasted root vegetables, leveraging high heat to create a caramelized, crispy exterior.
Whipped feta, or some variation of it, has deep roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. In Greece, feta is often crumbled into salads or baked in pies. The practice of whipping cheese with yogurt or cream to create a spreadable dip or meze is common in Turkey and the broader Eastern Mediterranean region. This technique transforms the crumbly, salty feta into a luxurious, smooth spread that is perfect for dipping or as a base for other ingredients. It represents a traditional method of making a simple, local ingredient feel special and celebratory.
The evolution of this specific recipe is a testament to modern fusion cooking. The hot honey trend gained massive popularity in the 2010s, particularly from Brooklyn-based company Mike’s Hot Honey, which paired it with pizza. Chefs and home cooks quickly adopted this spicy-sweet condiment for everything from fried chicken to roasted vegetables. Combining it with the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes and the tangy saltiness of whipped feta was a natural, innovative progression. The addition of cranberry dust adds a festive, American touch, tying the dish to holiday traditions.
Regional variations of this concept are already emerging. In the South, you might find a version using local honey and a hotter chili variety. A Mediterranean-inspired take could include oregano and lemon zest in the whipped feta. Some cooks might substitute the cranberry dust with a pistachio or walnut crumble for a different texture and flavor profile. This adaptability is a key part of the dish’s cultural significance; it serves as a canvas for local ingredients and personal taste, reflecting the global and personalized nature of contemporary home cooking.
Ingredient Deep Dive
Let us start with the star of the show: the sweet potato. This vibrant root vegetable is native to the Americas and has been a dietary staple for millennia. Culturally, it is celebrated across the globe, from the sweet potato pies of the American South to the tempura-fried versions in Japan. Nutritionally, it is a superstar, loaded with beta-carotene (which converts to Vitamin A), fiber, Vitamin C, and several B vitamins. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm specimens with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any with soft spots or signs of sprouting. Store them in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place—not the refrigerator, as cold temperatures can alter their taste and texture.
Feta cheese brings the essential salty, tangy element to this dish. Traditionally, authentic feta is a Greek cheese made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep and goat’s milk, and it holds a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status in the European Union. Its crumbly texture and briny flavor are iconic. From a health perspective, feta is a good source of calcium, protein, and probiotics. However, it is also high in sodium, so those monitoring salt intake should be mindful. For the creamiest whipped feta, start with a block of feta in brine, not pre-crumbled cheese. If you need a substitution, a firm ricotta salata or even a creamy goat cheese can work, though the flavor profile will shift.
Honey is the ancient sweetener that forms the base of our spicy condiment. Its use dates back to prehistoric times, evidenced by cave paintings showing honey harvesting. Every culture in areas where bees thrive has a history with honey, using it for food, medicine, and ritual. Nutritionally, it contains antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, though it is still a form of sugar. For the hot honey, you can use any variety you like—clover, wildflower, or orange blossom all work well. To make it “hot,” we infuse it with red pepper flakes, which slowly release their capsaicin and spice into the sweet syrup, creating a perfectly balanced condiment.
Dried cranberries are the secret weapon for adding a tart, fruity punch and stunning color. Cranberries are one of only three fruits native to North America, and Native Americans used them for food, medicine, and dye long before European settlers arrived. They are famously rich in Vitamin C and proanthocyanidins, which are linked to urinary tract health. When dried, they become a chewy, intensely flavored fruit that can be ground into a vibrant dust. For this recipe, ensure you are using plain dried cranberries, not the sweetened “craisins” variety, to avoid making the dish overly sweet. If you cannot find dried cranberries, dried cherries or even finely chopped dried apricots make a wonderful substitute.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Baking Sheet: Placing the sweet potato wedges too close together on the pan is a common error. They will steam instead of roast, resulting in soft, soggy wedges instead of crispy ones. Always ensure there is space between each wedge for hot air to circulate properly.
- Uneven Wedge Sizes: Cutting the sweet potatoes into uneven pieces guarantees inconsistent cooking. Smaller pieces will burn before the larger ones are tender. Take the time to cut them into similarly sized wedges for uniform roasting and perfect texture throughout.
- Skipping the Cornstarch: The cornstarch in the seasoning mix is not optional; it is crucial for crispiness. It helps to draw out moisture and creates a delicate, crispy coating on the exterior of the sweet potato wedges. Do not omit this ingredient.
- Using Pre-Crumbled Feta: Pre-crumbled feta is often coated with anti-caking agents that can prevent it from blending into a perfectly smooth cream. For the best texture in your whipped feta, always start with a solid block of feta stored in brine.
- Over-processing the Whipped Feta: While you want the feta to be smooth, blending it for too long can cause it to become gummy or even break. Process it just until it is smooth and creamy, then stop immediately.
- Blending Warm Ingredients: If your cream cheese is not at room temperature, it will not incorporate smoothly with the feta. This can lead to a lumpy, unappealing texture. Always ensure your dairy ingredients are softened before you begin blending.
- Burning the Hot Honey: When infusing the honey with red pepper flakes, use gentle, low heat. Bringing the honey to a boil or cooking it over high heat can destroy its delicate flavor compounds and even make it bitter.
- Grinding Cranberries into Paste: When making the cranberry dust, pulse the dried fruit briefly. If you run the food processor continuously, the natural oils and sugars will be released, turning your dust into a sticky paste instead of a fine powder.
- Assembling Too Early: If you assemble the entire dish too far in advance, the heat from the sweet potato wedges will melt the whipped feta and cause the toppings to sink. For the best presentation, assemble just before serving.
Essential Techniques
Creating Perfect Wedges: The technique for cutting sweet potato wedges is fundamental to the dish’s success. First, slice the potato in half lengthwise. Then, place each half cut-side down and slice it into long, even quarters or sixths, depending on the size of the potato. The goal is to have wedges that are roughly the same thickness so they cook at the same rate. This ensures that every wedge has a crispy exterior and a fully cooked, fluffy interior, without some pieces being underdone or burnt.
The Whipping Process: Achieving a light and creamy whipped feta relies on proper technique. Always start with room-temperature dairy to allow for smooth incorporation. Use a food processor or a high-powered blender for the best results. Pulse the feta and cream cheese first to break them down, then process on high until the mixture is completely smooth and has a fluffy consistency. This aeration is what transforms the dense cheese into a cloud-like dip. Under-whipping will leave it grainy, while over-whipping can make it thin and runny.
Infusing Hot Honey: The key to a flavorful hot honey is a gentle infusion. Combine the honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over the lowest possible heat. You only want to warm the honey enough to make it fluid and allow the chili oils to release; you are not cooking it. Let it steep off the heat for at least 10-15 minutes. This slow, gentle process extracts the spice without burning the honey, resulting in a complex, balanced condiment with a clear, spicy kick.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Wedges
Soak your cut sweet potato wedges in cold water for 20-30 minutes before roasting. This step draws out excess starch, which is the secret to achieving a much crispier exterior during cooking.
After tossing the wedges in oil and seasoning, spread them in a single layer on a preheated baking sheet. A hot pan gives the wedges an immediate sear, kickstarting the crisping process from the moment they hit the surface.
Do not skimp on the oil. A sufficient coating of oil is necessary to conduct heat effectively and to promote browning and crisping on the surface of the sweet potato wedges.
For an extra flavor dimension, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the spice mix for the wedges. These spices complement the natural sweetness of the potato beautifully.
If your whipped feta seems too thick, add a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or a splash of milk while processing. This will thin it to a perfect, dippable consistency without compromising the flavor.
For a more complex hot honey, add a strip of orange zest or a sprig of fresh thyme to the pan while infusing. Remove it before drizzling to impart a subtle, aromatic background note.
Make the cranberry dust in a small, clean coffee grinder for the finest, most powdery texture. This is especially useful if your food processor is too large to effectively grind a small quantity.
Let the roasted sweet potato wedges rest for a minute on the baking sheet after removing them from the oven. This allows them to firm up slightly, making them less likely to break when you transfer them to the serving platter.
Variations and Adaptations
Consider exploring different regional variations to suit your taste. For a Southern twist, use a bourbon-infused honey and add a pinch of cayenne to the wedge seasoning. A Mediterranean version could include za’atar and sumac in the spice rub for the potatoes and a drizzle of olive oil over the final dish. An Asian-inspired adaptation might feature a hot honey infused with gochujang (Korean chili paste) and a dusting of toasted sesame seeds instead of cranberry.
You can easily create seasonal adaptations for this versatile recipe. In the spring, top the dish with fresh pea shoots and a sprinkle of lemon zest. For summer, use a dust of dehydrated strawberries or raspberries and garnish with fresh mint. In autumn, incorporate roasted, chopped pecans into the cranberry dust for a nutty crunch. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the core concept of sweet potato wedges with whipped feta all year long.
Several dietary modifications are straightforward and effective. For a vegan version, use a block of firm tofu pressed and crumbled, blended with vegan cream cheese and nutritional yeast to mimic the whipped feta. Agave syrup can replace honey. To make it gluten-free, simply ensure your spices and cornstarch are certified gluten-free, which they typically are. For a lower-carb option, you can substitute the sweet potatoes with roasted wedges of butternut squash or carrots, though the carb count will not be as low as true keto requirements.
Serving and Presentation Guide
Plating is key to making this dish look as incredible as it tastes. Start by spreading the whipped feta in a thick, swooping layer across the center of a large platter or individual plates. Use the back of a spoon to create elegant swirls and dips that will catch the toppings. Artfully arrange the warm sweet potato wedges over the bed of feta, leaning them against each other for height and visual interest. Do not just dump them in a pile; a considered arrangement makes all the difference.
Garnishing is the final touch. Drizzle the hot honey in a zig-zag or circular pattern over the wedges and feta. Do not stir it in; you want the beautiful contrast of the white feta and amber honey to be visible. Next, generously sprinkle the vibrant red cranberry dust over everything, allowing it to fall into the crevices. For a final touch of freshness and color, you can add a few microgreens, chopped fresh parsley, or thyme leaves. This adds a green element that makes the entire dish pop.
Wine and Beverage Pairing
Selecting the right wine can elevate this dish from great to extraordinary. The complex sweet, savory, and spicy notes call for a versatile white wine. A Riesling, particularly an off-dry (slightly sweet) German Kabinett, is a perfect match. Its inherent sweetness mirrors the sweet potatoes and honey, while its bright acidity cuts through the rich, creamy feta. Alternatively, a crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc can provide a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness. For red wine lovers, a light-bodied, low-tannin Pinot Noir will complement the earthiness of the sweet potatoes without overpowering the other flavors.
For non-alcoholic alternatives, consider options that balance sweetness and acidity. A sparkling apple cider offers both effervescence and fruitiness that pairs wonderfully. Ginger beer is another excellent choice; its spicy kick echoes the heat in the hot honey and its sweetness is a great counterpart. Iced hibiscus tea would be a fantastic pairing, as its tart, cranberry-like flavor directly complements the cranberry dust in the dish. Always serve these beverages well-chilled to provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, roasted sweet potato wedges.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is essential for maintaining quality and safety. Store all components separately for the best results. The roasted sweet potato wedges can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They will lose their crispness but can be revived in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes. The whipped feta should be stored in a sealed container in the fridge and is best consumed within 3-4 days. The hot honey can be stored at room temperature in a sealed jar for several weeks. The cranberry dust should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a month.
Reheating requires a specific approach to restore texture. Never microwave the sweet potato wedges if you want them crispy again. Instead, spread them on a baking sheet and reheat in a 400°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm and crisp on the outside. The whipped feta is best served cold and should not be reheated. If it thickens in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and stir in a teaspoon of milk or yogurt to loosen it. The assembled dish does not store or reheat well, so only combine what you plan to serve immediately.
Make Ahead Strategies
This dish is excellent for planning ahead, which makes it a stress-free option for entertaining. You can prepare the whipped feta up to two days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavor often improves as the ingredients meld. The hot honey can be made weeks ahead and stored in a jar at room temperature. The cranberry dust can also be prepared up to a month in advance and stored in a pantry cupboard. This advance prep leaves you with very little to do on the day of your event.
For the sweet potato wedges, you can do a partial prep the day before. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into wedges, then submerge them completely in cold water in a large bowl. Store this bowl in the refrigerator overnight. The water bath prevents oxidation (browning) and helps to remove excess starch. When you are ready to cook, drain the wedges and pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This crucial drying step is necessary to ensure they roast and crisp up properly instead of steaming.
Scaling Instructions
Scaling this recipe up or down is straightforward because it uses simple ratios. To halve the recipe, simply use one large sweet potato, half a block of feta, and halve all other ingredients accordingly. Use a smaller baking sheet to ensure the wedges are not too spaced out. To double or triple the recipe for a crowd, you will need multiple baking sheets. It is crucial to roast the wedges in a single layer, so do not overcrowd the pans by stacking them. You may need to roast in batches, keeping the first batches warm in a 200°F oven while the others cook.
When scaling up the whipped feta, ensure your food processor is large enough to handle the volume. If it is not, blend the feta and cream cheese in batches and then whisk them together in a large bowl. For the hot honey, you can make a larger batch in a single pot, but be mindful that a larger volume will take slightly longer to infuse. The cranberry dust is easy to scale; just pulse more dried cranberries in your processor. Remember that storage needs will change with volume, so have appropriate containers ready for your leftovers.
Nutritional Deep Dive
This dish offers a compelling nutritional profile when viewed as a whole. The sweet potatoes are the primary source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. They are exceptionally high in Vitamin A (as beta-carotene), which is vital for vision, immune function, and skin health. The fiber content aids in digestion and helps promote a feeling of fullness. The feta cheese contributes protein and a significant amount of calcium, which is essential for bone health. However, it also adds saturated fat and sodium, so portion control is key for those with specific dietary concerns.
From a micronutrient perspective, the honey provides small amounts of antioxidants and the cranberries contribute Vitamin C and additional antioxidants. The olive oil used for roasting is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. To make the dish more weight-management friendly, you can be mindful of the amount of oil and cheese used. Baking the wedges instead of frying is already a healthier cooking method. Enjoying this as part of a balanced meal with a lean protein and a green vegetable can make it a very satisfying and nutritious option.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan adaptation, replace the feta and cream cheese with a blend of soaked raw cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and salt, blended until ultra-smooth. Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey, and infuse it with red pepper flakes as directed. The result is a surprisingly similar creamy and tangy base with the same spicy-sweet topping. Ensure the dried cranberries you use do not contain honey or other non-vegan additives.
To make this recipe gluten-free, it is generally already safe. The core ingredients—sweet potatoes, feta, cheese, honey, and cranberries—are naturally gluten-free. The only potential source of gluten would be in the cornstarch or any pre-mixed spices if they were processed in a facility that also handles wheat. To be certain, simply use brands of cornstarch and spices that are certified gluten-free. This is an easy adaptation that requires no ingredient substitutions.
For a dairy-free version, the whipped feta is the main challenge. A great substitute is to make a “whipped” dip from soaked and blended sunflower seeds or almonds. Add lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt to mimic the tangy, salty profile of feta. Another option is to use a store-bought vegan cream cheese alternative as a base, though the flavor will be milder. The rest of the recipe remains delightfully dairy-free, making this a simple and effective modification.
Troubleshooting Guide
If your sweet potato wedges are soggy, the most likely culprit is overcrowding on the baking sheet. Next time, ensure they are in a single layer with space between them. Another cause could be insufficient oil, which is necessary for conduction and crisping. Also, make sure your oven is fully preheated and that you are not opening the door frequently during cooking, as this causes temperature fluctuations that can lead to steaming.
If your whipped feta is grainy or lumpy, the problem is usually that the feta and/or cream cheese were too cold when blended. Always allow them to come to room temperature first. If you are already committed to a lumpy batch, you can try pressing it through a fine-mesh sieve to smooth it out. For future reference, a high-powered blender will generally produce a smoother texture than a food processor.
If your hot honey is not spicy enough, do not simply add more red pepper flakes and reheat, as this can make it bitter. Instead, let the current batch cool and then add more flakes, allowing it to steep for a longer period, even overnight. The spice will continue to infuse over time. For immediate use, you can stir in a tiny pinch of cayenne powder to increase the heat level without altering the texture.
Recipe Success Stories
We have received wonderful feedback from our community of home cooks who have tried this recipe. One reader, Sarah from Colorado, shared that she made these sweet potato wedges for her Thanksgiving potluck and they were the first dish to disappear. She loved that she could prepare the dips and dust the day before, reducing her holiday kitchen stress. Another home cook, Mark, reported that his children, who are typically picky eaters, devoured the wedges and asked for them to be added to the regular weekly meal rotation.
Many readers have also shared their successful adaptations. A user named Lena created a version with a dust made from dehydrated oranges and pistachios for a citrusy twist. Another, David, who follows a vegan diet, used our cashew-based “feta” suggestion and said it was a revelation. He now uses the whipped cashew technique as a base for other dips and spreads. These stories highlight the recipe’s versatility and its ability to inspire creativity in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
A: Absolutely. While the flavor profile will be different, russet or Yukon Gold potatoes make excellent crispy wedges. They are less sweet and more starchy, so they will result in a fluffier interior. The seasoning, whipped feta, and hot honey will still pair beautifully with them, creating a more savory-forward dish.
Q: My whipped feta is too thick. How can I thin it out?
A: If your whipped feta is too thick for dipping, simply add a liquid to thin it. A tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt, milk, cream, or even a teaspoon of lemon juice will work well. Add it one teaspoon at a time while processing until you reach your desired, smooth, and dippable consistency.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: There are several ways to increase the heat. For the hot honey, you can use hotter chili varieties like arbol or cayenne flakes instead of standard red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne powder directly to the seasoning for the sweet potato wedges before they go in the oven for an extra layer of spice.
Q: Can I make the wedges in an air fryer?
A: Yes, an air fryer is a fantastic tool for making sweet potato wedges. Toss the prepared wedges in oil and seasoning as directed. Cook at 380°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They will become very crispy on the outside while staying tender inside, often in less time than traditional oven roasting.
Q: Is there a substitute for dried cranberries?
A: Certainly. Dried cherries would be the closest substitute, offering a similar tart-sweet flavor. For a different direction, try grinding dried apricots for a sweeter dust, or use toasted and finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for a crunchy, savory topping that contrasts with the creamy feta.
Q: How far in advance can I assemble the whole dish?
A: It is best to assemble the dish immediately before serving. The heat from the sweet potato wedges will quickly warm the whipped feta, causing it to lose its structure and become runny. For the best texture and presentation, have all components ready and combine them on the platter right as you are about to bring it to the table.
Additional Resources
If you enjoyed the flavors in this recipe, you might love exploring other dishes that feature sweet and savory combinations. Our recipe for a Harvest Bowl with Maple Tahini Dressing uses similar elements in a salad format. For another great use of whipped feta, try our Whipped Feta and Roasted Red Pepper Dip, which is a classic Mediterranean appetizer. If the hot honey was your favorite part, our Hot Honey Glazed Chicken Wings or Spicy Honey Brussels Sprouts will be right up your alley.
To master the techniques used here, we have comprehensive guides on our site. Our “Guide to Perfectly Roasted Vegetables” covers the science behind achieving caramelization and crispiness. The “Ultimate Guide to Cheese Dips and Spreads” delves into different methods for creating smooth, flavorful bases. For those looking to expand their condiment repertoire, our “DIY Infused Oils, Honeys, and Syrups” tutorial offers endless ideas for customizing your own creations. These resources will help you build the skills to not only perfect this recipe but to become a more confident and creative cook overall.
PrintSweet Potato Wedges with Hot Honey Whipped Feta & Cranberry Dust
Description
Crispy baked sweet potato wedges topped with creamy whipped feta, drizzled with spicy honey, and finished with a festive cranberry dust.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss sweet potato wedges with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and tender.
- While wedges bake, prepare whipped feta: In a food processor, blend feta, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Make hot honey by warming honey and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over low heat for 2-3 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- To serve, spread whipped feta on a plate, top with sweet potato wedges, drizzle with hot honey, and sprinkle with cranberry dust.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
I’m Shaykee—born in Morocco, seasoned across continents. From airplane galleys to home kitchens, I share the flavors and stories that shaped my journey.