Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

Introduction

This Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans is a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. It’s easy to prepare and makes a wonderful crowd-pleasing starter for any gathering. Serve it warm with crostini or crackers for an irresistible treat.

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) to prepare for baking the spread.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth and well combined. This creates a creamy base for the spread.
3. Step 3: Spread the combined cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, forming a uniform layer.
4. Step 4: Spoon the fig jam over the cheese mixture and use a spatula to spread it evenly for balanced sweetness in every bite.
5. Step 5: Pour the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam layer to add a tangy depth of flavor.
6. Step 6: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the fig jam is bubbling and the spread is heated through.
7. Step 7: While the spread is baking, toast the chopped pecans (or your preferred nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
8. Step 8: Remove the spread from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the toasted nuts and chopped fresh thyme and rosemary. Let it cool for a few minutes to set slightly before serving.
9. Step 9: Serve the warm appetizer spread with crostini, crackers, or vegetable crudités for dipping and spreading.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, omit the nuts and add extra herbs or seeds for crunch.
• Try using honey instead of fig jam for a floral sweetness.
• Substitute fresh rosemary and thyme with dried herbs if fresh aren’t available, using about half the amount.
• Make it vegan by using plant-based cream cheese and goat cheese alternatives.

Storage

Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or enjoy it chilled with crackers for a different texture and flavor experience.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this spread ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the spread and refrigerate it before baking. Just bring it to room temperature and bake as directed before serving.

What can I serve this with besides crostini?

This spread pairs well with an assortment of crackers, sliced baguette, pita chips, or even vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and bell peppers.

Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 127 reviews

This Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans is a deliciously creamy and tangy appetizer perfect for entertaining. Made with softened goat cheese and cream cheese, topped with sweet fig jam, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, and crunchy toasted pecans, this warm spread combines rich, sweet, and nutty flavors with fresh herbs for a gourmet touch. Serve it warm with crostini or crackers for an irresistible bite.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: About 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Base

• 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 (can substitute with 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. Mix Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy base for the spread.
3. Layer Cheese Mixture: Spread the combined cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, forming a uniform layer.
4. Add Fig Jam: Spoon the fig jam over the cheese mixture and use a spatula to spread it out evenly for balanced sweetness in every bite.
5. Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar: Pour the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam layer to add a tangy depth of flavor.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the fig jam is bubbling and the spread is heated through.
7. Toast Nuts: While the spread is baking, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
8. Garnish and Cool: Remove the spread from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the toasted nuts and chopped fresh thyme and rosemary. Let it cool for a few minutes to set slightly before serving.
9. Serve: Serve the warm appetizer spread with crostini, crackers, or vegetable crudités for dipping and spreading.

Notes

• You can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or pistachios depending on your preference.
• Make sure the cheeses are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
• Serve warm for the best flavor and spreadability.
• This spread pairs wonderfully with toasted baguette slices or assorted crackers.
• For a vegetarian option, ensure the balsamic vinegar and other ingredients comply with your specific dietary guidelines.

Keywords: goat cheese spread, fig jam appetizer, baked cheese spread, pecan appetizer, easy party appetizers, vegetarian appetizers