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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the cheese appetizer.
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.
Add Fig Jam: Spoon the fig jam over the goat cheese mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar evenly over the top of the fig jam layer to add tangy sweetness.
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.
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.
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.
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