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Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 12 reviews

This Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans is a delightful combination of creamy goat cheese and cream cheese topped with sweet fig jam, tangy balsamic vinegar, toasted pecans, and fresh herbs. Perfect for entertaining, this warm, flavorful spread pairs wonderfully with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables, making it an irresistible starter for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 ounces goat cheese (softened to room temperature)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)

Toppings and Flavorings

  • 1/2 cup fig jam
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts, almonds, or pistachios)
  • 2 tbsp 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. This creates 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 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 (or your preferred nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir 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 preference or availability.
  • For a stronger herb flavor, finely chop herbs just before garnishing to retain freshness.
  • Allow the spread to cool slightly after baking to avoid burning your mouth and to help the flavors meld.
  • This recipe works well for entertaining and can be prepared ahead by mixing cheeses and storing chilled until ready to bake.
  • If dairy is a concern, consider a plant-based cream cheese alternative to make a vegetarian-friendly option.

Nutrition

Keywords: goat cheese spread, fig jam appetizer, pecan cheese dip, easy party appetizers, baked goat cheese, herb topped cheese spread

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