Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

Introduction

This warm and creamy goat cheese appetizer spread combines tangy goat cheese with sweet fig jam, a hint of balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, and toasted pecans. It’s an effortless, elegant dish perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for a deliciously simple starter.

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 fresh 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 softened 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 mixture, spreading it evenly.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the top of the fig jam layer.
5. Step 5: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fig jam is bubbling and the cheese is heated through.
6. Step 6: While the spread bakes, toast the chopped pecans in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
7. Step 7: Remove the spread from the oven and sprinkle with the toasted pecans and chopped fresh herbs.
8. Step 8: Allow the spread to cool for a few minutes before serving. Offer crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables alongside for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Allow the goat cheese and cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth spread.
• If fig jam is unavailable, substitute with raspberry jam or orange preserves for a different fruity twist.
• Use fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary for the best flavor, but dried herbs can work in a pinch.
• Serve with a variety of dippers such as crostini, sturdy crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for variety.
• Prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and refrigerate; bake just before serving for convenience.

Storage

Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven until warmed through, or enjoy at room temperature. Toast fresh pecans before serving again to maintain their crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and assemble the spread in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for best results.

What can I serve with this goat cheese spread?

This spread pairs beautifully with crostini, crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a lighter option.

Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 109 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans is a warm, creamy, and elegant appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining the tangy smoothness of goat cheese and cream cheese with the sweet richness of fig jam and the crunch of toasted pecans, all enhanced with fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, this dish is simple to prepare yet impressive to serve. Ideal with crostini, crackers, or fresh veggies, it brings a delightful mix of textures and flavors that guests will love.

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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 and Garnishes

• 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the spread.
2. Combine Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until fully combined and smooth.
3. Spread Cheese Mixture: Evenly spread the cheese mixture into the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, creating a smooth layer.
4. Add Fig Jam: Spoon the fig jam over the goat cheese mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
5. Drizzle Balsamic: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the fig jam layer to add a tangy sweetness.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the fig jam is bubbling and the cheese mixture is warmed through.
7. Toast Pecans: While the cheese mixture is baking, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn them.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked spread from the oven. Sprinkle the toasted pecans and chopped fresh thyme and rosemary evenly over the top. Allow the spread to cool for a few minutes before serving.
9. Serve: Present with an assortment of dippers such as crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetable crudités for guests to enjoy.

Notes

• Choose high-quality goat cheese, fig jam, and balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
• Allow cheeses to come to room temperature for easier mixing and spreading.
• Keep a close eye on baking to avoid overcooking or burning the cheese and jam.
• Toast nuts just until fragrant to bring out their flavor without burning.
• Fresh herbs add a fresh, vibrant flavor; use dried herbs in a pinch.
• This appetizer can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving; cover and refrigerate until ready.
• Serve with a variety of dippers to suit your guests’ preferences, such as crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: goat cheese appetizer, fig jam spread, holiday appetizer, baked goat cheese, pecan cheese spread, creamy cheese dip