Golden Spinach Feta Rose Börek with Crispy Phyllo

These rose-shaped böreks are a stunning centerpiece for any table. Crispy phyllo layers wrap a savory filling of spinach and feta, creating a beautiful spiral that's as delicious as it looks.

Perfect for brunch, appetizers, or a light dinner, they're surprisingly simple to assemble and bake to golden perfection. The shattering crust gives way to a warm, herby interior.

Rose börek, also known as gül böreği, is a Turkish pastry that combines thin, flaky phyllo with a savory filling. In this version, fresh spinach and creamy feta are wrapped in phyllo strips, then coiled into rose shapes.

The result is a visually striking pastry with a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful center. Baking at 375°F (190°C) ensures the layers turn golden and shatteringly crisp.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The combination of milk, oil, and egg in the glaze adds moisture and richness to the phyllo, allowing it to crisp up beautifully without becoming dry.

This mixture also helps the layers adhere, so the rolls hold their shape during baking. The result is a pastry that's both flaky and tender.

Coiling the filled phyllo strips into roses creates multiple layers that bake evenly, ensuring every bite has a satisfying crunch and a generous amount of filling.

The spiral shape also makes for a gorgeous presentation, turning a simple pastry into an edible work of art.

Notes and substitutions

Use full-fat feta for the best flavor and texture. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute with a mixture of ricotta and feta. Fresh spinach is ideal, but frozen can be used if thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry.

Phyllo dough is delicate; keep it covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out. If the dough tears, don't worry—just patch it with a bit of glaze. The imperfections will be hidden once coiled.

• Ezine feta: Use any creamy feta or goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor.
• Fresh spinach: Frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry, can replace fresh.
• Vegetable oil: Melted butter or olive oil works for the glaze.

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pastry brush
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife and cutting board