Introduction

This Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans is a delightful blend of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors. It’s an easy-to-make, elegant starter that’s perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. The warm baked cheese and fruity jam create a harmonious combination that everyone will love.

The image shows a white oval ceramic dish filled with a creamy, light beige cheese dip as the base layer, smooth and slightly melted. On top, there is a rich, dark brown caramelized onion layer mixed with whole toasted pecans scattered evenly, adding texture and a shiny, sticky glaze. Fresh green herb sprigs, likely thyme, are placed on top for color contrast. A woman's hand is holding a toasted, golden-brown baguette slice dipped in the creamy cheese and caramelized onion mixture, positioned over the dish. The dish is set on a white marbled surface with extra toasted bread slices and fresh rosemary sprigs around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 fresh thyme and rosemary

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the spread.
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.
Step 3: Spread the combined cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, forming a uniform layer.
Step 4: Spoon the fig jam over the cheese mixture and use a spatula to spread it evenly for balanced sweetness in every bite.
Step 5: Pour the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam layer to add a tangy depth of flavor.
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.
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.
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.
Step 9: Serve the warm appetizer spread with crostini, crackers, or vegetable crudités for dipping and spreading.

Tips & Variations

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.

Storage

Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid overheating. The nuts are best added fresh after reheating to maintain their crunch.

How to Serve

A white oval ceramic dish holds a creamy cheese dip as the bottom layer, smooth and pale yellow in color with a soft texture. On top, there is a rich, dark brown caramelized onion layer, glossy and slightly chunky. Scattered over the onions are toasted pecans, adding a reddish-brown and rough texture, along with small green herb leaves for freshness. A woman's hand is dipping a round, golden-brown toasted bread slice into the dip, lifting it to show all three layers on the bread with the cheese melting. The dish sits on a white marbled textured surface, with sprigs of fresh rosemary nearby and additional toasted bread slices blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?

Yes, cream cheese alone or a blend with ricotta can work, but goat cheese adds a distinctive tangy flavor that complements the fig jam nicely.

Is it necessary to toast the nuts?

Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and crunch, making the spread more aromatic and tasty, but you can skip this step if short on time.