Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the spread.
- 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.
- Layer Cheese Mixture: Spread the combined cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, forming a uniform layer.
- 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.
- Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar: Pour the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam layer to add a tangy depth of flavor.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
