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Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 92 reviews

This Goat Cheese Appetizer Spread with Fig Jam and Pecans is a creamy and flavorful baked cheese spread that combines tangy goat cheese with sweet fig jam, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, and a crunchy toasted pecan topping. Perfect for entertaining, it pairs beautifully with crostini, crackers, or vegetable crudités.

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

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

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