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Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 109 reviews
  • Author: anna
  • Total Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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

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Find it online: https://recipiana.com/goat-cheese-appetizer-spread-with-fig-jam-and-pecans-recipe/