Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

Introduction

This Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans is a delightful combination of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors. Perfect for entertaining, it pairs beautifully with crostini or fresh vegetables. It’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together 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, spreading it evenly.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the top of the fig jam.
5. Step 5: Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the fig jam is bubbling and hot.
6. Step 6: While the spread bakes, toast the chopped pecans (or your choice of nuts) in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
7. Step 7: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the spread with fresh chopped thyme and rosemary, then scatter the toasted pecans on top.
8. Step 8: Allow the spread to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with crostini, crackers, or fresh crudités.

Tips & Variations

• For milder flavor, use less balsamic vinegar or substitute with a drizzle of honey.
• Try different nuts like almonds or pistachios to change the texture and flavor.
• Add a pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• If you prefer a more rustic look, leave the cheese mixture slightly chunky instead of fully smooth.

Storage

Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until warm before serving. Toast nuts fresh each time for best crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this spread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and toppings ahead, but it’s best to assemble and bake just before serving to keep the flavors fresh and textures optimal.

What can I serve with this goat cheese spread?

This spread pairs wonderfully with crostini, crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh crudités like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.

Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 129 reviews

This Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans is a delightful and elegant starter perfect for entertaining. Creamy goat cheese combined with cream cheese creates a smooth base, topped with sweet fig jam and tangy balsamic vinegar, then baked to warm perfection. Finished with toasted pecans and fresh herbs, this spread pairs beautifully with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables for an irresistible appetizer.

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

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

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the appetizer spread evenly.
2. Mix Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly stir together the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until a smooth, consistent mixture forms. This will serve as the creamy base of the spread.
3. Assemble the Base: Spread the combined cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, creating a uniform layer for baking.
4. Add Fig Jam: Spoon the fig jam over the cheese layer, spreading it out carefully to cover the surface evenly, adding sweet flavor and moisture.
5. Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar: Pour the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam to introduce a tangy depth to the dish.
6. Bake the Spread: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fig jam is bubbling and hot, indicating the spread is warmed through.
7. Toast the Nuts: While the spread bakes, toast the chopped pecans (or your choice of nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat until they release a fragrant aroma and become slightly golden, enhancing their flavor.
8. Finish the Spread: Remove the baked dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle the toasted nuts and freshly chopped thyme and rosemary evenly over the top to add texture and herbal notes.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the spread to cool slightly for a few minutes, then serve warm alongside crostini, crackers, or fresh crudités for a perfect appetizer experience.

Notes

• For nut alternatives, try walnuts, almonds, or pistachios depending on your preference.
• Allow the cheeses to soften to room temperature to make mixing easier and smoother.
• Serve immediately for the best warm texture and flavor, but the spread can be prepared in advance and baked before serving.
• Pair with a variety of dippers such as toasted baguette slices, artisan crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks.

Keywords: Goat cheese spread, Fig jam appetizer, Baked cheese dip, Holiday appetizers, Party snacks, Nut toppings