Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the appetizer spread evenly.
- 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.
- Assemble the Base: Spread the combined cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, creating a uniform layer for baking.
- 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.
- Drizzle Balsamic Vinegar: Pour the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam to introduce a tangy depth to the dish.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
