Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

Introduction

This Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans is a delightful blend of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors. Perfect for entertaining, it offers a beautiful balance of textures and tastes that will impress your guests. Serve it warm with crostini or crackers for an irresistible start to any gathering.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces goat cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1/2 cup fig jam
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts, almonds, or pistachios)
• 2 tbsp chopped thyme and rosemary

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together the goat cheese and cream cheese until well combined. Spread the cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish.
3. Step 3: Spoon the fig jam over the goat cheese, spreading it evenly across the surface.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the top of the fig jam.
5. Step 5: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fig jam is bubbling and hot.
6. Step 6: While the spread bakes, toast the chopped pecans (or your choice of nuts) in a dry pan over medium heat until aromatic, about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
7. Step 7: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the baked cheese with the fresh herbs and toasted pecans.
8. Step 8: Allow the appetizer to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with crostini, crackers, or fresh crudités.

Tips & Variations

• Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or pistachios based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• For extra warmth, serve immediately after baking to enjoy the melty texture of the cheeses.
• Try adding a drizzle of honey before serving for a touch of extra sweetness.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to enhance the aromatic profile and freshness.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to warm through without melting too much. This appetizer is best enjoyed fresh but can be served slightly warmed or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this appetizer ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cheese mixture and toppings in the baking dish and refrigerate covered for a few hours before baking. Just add the toasted nuts and fresh herbs right after baking for best flavor and texture.

What can I serve alongside this goat cheese appetizer?

This appetizer pairs well with an assortment of crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips for dipping.

Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 305 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans is a warm, savory-sweet treat perfect for entertaining. Creamy goat cheese combined with smooth cream cheese is topped with luscious fig jam and tangy balsamic vinegar, then baked until bubbling hot. Toasted pecans and fresh herbs add a delightful crunch and aromatic finish. Serve with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables for an irresistible appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Mixture

• 8 ounces goat cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)

Toppings

• 1/2 cup fig jam
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts, almonds, or pistachios)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme and rosemary

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the cheese appetizer.
2. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until they are fully combined into a smooth, uniform mixture. Then, spread this cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish.
3. Add Fig Jam: Spoon the fig jam over the goat cheese mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
4. Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar evenly over the top of the fig jam layer to add tangy sweetness.
5. Bake the Appetizer: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the fig jam is bubbling and hot, indicating the mixture is warmed through.
6. Toast Pecans: While the appetizer bakes, toast the chopped pecans (or your choice of walnuts, almonds, or pistachios) in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become aromatic and lightly browned. This usually takes 3 to 5 minutes.
7. Add Herbs and Nuts: Once the baked cheese mixture is out of the oven, sprinkle the top with the fresh chopped thyme and rosemary, followed by the toasted pecans, spreading them evenly.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the appetizer to cool for a few minutes to set slightly. Serve warm with an assortment of crostini, crackers, or fresh crudités for dipping and spreading.

Notes

• Ensure cheeses are softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
• Use your preferred nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or pistachios if pecans are not available.
• Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary add depth of flavor, but you can substitute with other fresh herbs if desired.
• Serve the appetizer warm for best texture and flavor experience.
• Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: goat cheese appetizer, fig jam appetizer, baked cheese dip, easy appetizer, party appetizer, creamy cheese spread, nuts and herbs appetizer