Dried Cherries & Toasted Walnuts Recipe

If you love a snack or appetizer that bursts with flavor and texture, these Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Dried Cherries & Toasted Walnuts are about to become your new obsession. The natural sweetness of caramelized sweet potatoes perfectly complements the creamy, melty Brie, while the dried cherries add a tangy pop and the toasted walnuts bring a satisfying crunch. Each bite offers a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and nutty notes that make this dish utterly irresistible and perfect for any occasion.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple yet exciting. Each component plays a crucial role, from the cozy spices that elevate the sweet potatoes to the fresh textures and flavors that make every bite memorable.

• Sweet potatoes: The star base—peeling and slicing into rounds ensures even roasting and sweet caramelization.
• Olive oil: Helps roast the potatoes beautifully while adding a subtle fruitiness.
• Cinnamon: Brings warm, comforting notes that enhance the natural sweetness.
• Smoked paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smoky warmth to balance the dish.
• Garlic powder: A mild savory touch to round out the flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in every ingredient.
• Brie: Creamy, soft, and perfect for melting—this cheese adds indulgence and richness.
• Dried cherries: Their tart, chewy sweetness creates a wonderful contrast.
• Toasted walnuts: Crunchy and nutty, they provide fantastic texture and earthiness.
• Honey or hot honey: A light drizzle to tie all the flavors together with a touch of luscious sweetness.
• Fresh rosemary (optional): Adds a lovely herbal aroma and elegant garnish.

How to Make Dried Cherries & Toasted Walnuts

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Sweet Potato Rounds

Start by peeling your sweet potatoes and slicing them into half-inch rounds—aim for slices that are sturdy enough to hold the toppings but thin enough to roast through evenly. In a large bowl, toss them with olive oil, cinnamon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to coat every piece in that beautiful blend of warm spices. Spread the rounds in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then roast at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through. You’re looking for caramelized edges and a tender interior—this roasting step builds a flavor base that’s truly next level.

Step 2: Add the Melty Brie

Right after you take the potatoes out of the oven, quickly top each round with a wedge of Brie. The residual heat gently softens the cheese so it melts into gooey perfection without losing its lovely mild flavor. This step transforms the roasted sweet potato rounds from simple to downright luxurious.

Step 3: Layer on Dried Cherries & Toasted Walnuts

Next up, sprinkle the dried cherries and toasted walnuts generously over the Brie-topped rounds. This combination delivers vibrant bursts of tartness with chewy texture from the cherries and a satisfying crunch plus earthy richness from the walnuts. This is where the dish really shines and surprises your taste buds.

Step 4: Finish with Honey Drizzle and Garnish

To elevate the dish even more, drizzle a little honey or hot honey over the top for a sticky-sweet finish that binds all the flavors beautifully. If you have fresh rosemary on hand, scatter a few needles to add a fresh, aromatic touch that balances the sweetness and nuttiness perfectly.

How to Serve Dried Cherries & Toasted Walnuts

Garnishes

Fresh rosemary is a superb optional garnish, adding an herbal brightness that complements the rich Brie and toasted walnuts. You can also add a light sprinkle of sea salt flakes or a tiny dash of cracked black pepper for a subtle contrast on top.

Side Dishes

This dish works wonderfully alongside a light, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness or served with warm crusty bread to soak up all the melty, fruity-goodness. It also pairs beautifully with roasted autumn vegetables or a simple bowl of mixed greens with tart apples or pears for a seasonal vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

These roasted rounds can steal the show as appetizers at a party—arrange them on a large platter garnished with sprigs of rosemary or edible flowers for extra visual appeal. You can also place them individually on tasting spoons for a fun finger-food presentation that guests will love. For a brunch twist, serve alongside soft scrambled eggs or on a charcuterie board with other nuts, dried fruits, and cheeses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the sweet potato rounds in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The toppings may continue to soften the potatoes slightly, but the flavor will remain delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal because Brie and the texture of roasted sweet potatoes can change once frozen and thawed. If you do freeze, freeze the sweet potato rounds alone in a single layer first, then reheat and add the Brie, dried cherries, and toasted walnuts fresh.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to warm the sweet potatoes and slightly soften the Brie again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the sweet potatoes mushy and the Brie lose its lovely texture.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of toasted walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds also work beautifully to add that satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, but walnuts are special for their rich texture that complements the dried cherries perfectly.

Are dried cherries necessary, or can I substitute them?

Dried cherries bring a unique tart-sweetness that pairs so well with the creamy Brie and toasted walnuts, but dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots can be tasty substitutions in a pinch.

How do I toast walnuts at home?

To toast walnuts, simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to prevent burning. They’ll be fragrant and slightly golden when done.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, swap the Brie for a plant-based cheese that melts well, like a vegan cream cheese or cashew-based cheese, and use maple syrup instead of honey to keep it completely vegan-friendly.

Is there an alternative to honey for the drizzle?

Maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent alternatives to honey for that sweet finish, especially if you want a more neutral flavor or prefer a vegan option.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the way Dried Cherries & Toasted Walnuts bring together sweet, nutty, and tart elements in harmony with creamy Brie and roasted sweet potatoes. This recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that’s both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. If you haven’t tried this combination yet, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a go—you might just find your new favorite bite.