Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

Introduction

This Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans is a delightful combination of creamy cheese, sweet jam, and crunchy nuts. Perfect for entertaining, it offers a balanced flavor that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together the goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth and well combined. Spread this cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish.
3. Step 3: Spoon the fig jam over the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam layer.
5. Step 5: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the fig jam is hot and bubbling.
6. Step 6: While the dish bakes, toast the chopped pecans (or your preferred nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
7. Step 7: Remove the baked cheese from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs and toasted nuts evenly on top.
8. Step 8: Let the appetizer cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For a different flavor, try using honey instead of fig jam or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat.
• Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or pistachios depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary add brightness — try basil or sage as alternatives.
• Make it ahead and assemble it before guests arrive; just warm it gently before serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave until warmed through. Note that the nuts may lose some crunch when refrigerated.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this appetizer vegan?

You can substitute the goat and cream cheese with plant-based cream cheese alternatives. Ensure the fig jam and nuts are vegan-friendly to keep the dish fully plant-based.

What can I serve this with?

This appetizer pairs wonderfully with crostini, crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables like cucumber and bell pepper strips for dipping.

Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 80 reviews

• Author: Charlotte
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans is a delightful and elegant starter that’s perfect for entertaining. Creamy goat cheese blended with smooth cream cheese forms a luscious base, topped with sweet fig jam and a tangy drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Toasted pecans and fresh herbs add a wonderful crunch and aromatic finish. Serve warm with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Base

• 8 ounces goat cheese, softened to room temperature
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature

Toppings

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the appetizer.
2. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly stir together the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until fully combined and smooth.
3. Spread Cheese Base: Evenly spread the cheese mixture in the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
4. Add Fig Jam: Spoon the fig jam over the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly across the top.
5. Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam layer to add tangy depth.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fig jam is bubbling hot and warmed through.
7. Toast Nuts: While the cheese mixture bakes, toast the chopped pecans (or your preferred nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and slightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
8. Garnish and Cool: Remove the baked cheese from the oven, sprinkle the toasted nuts and chopped fresh thyme and rosemary over the top, and allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.
9. Serve: Serve warm with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables such as crudités for dipping and spreading.

Notes

• Softening the cheeses to room temperature makes mixing easier and ensures a smooth texture.
• You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios based on your preference.
• Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch to the dish.
• This appetizer is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
• Use a good quality fig jam and balsamic vinegar for best flavor results.

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

Keywords: goat cheese appetizer, fig jam, baked cheese dip, toasted pecans, easy party appetizer, cheese spread