Description
This delicious goat cheese appetizer features a creamy goat cheese log topped with sweet fig jam and crunchy pecans, all baked to perfection for a warm, inviting dish. Enhanced with optional drizzles of honey or maple syrup and fresh herbs, this elegant starter is perfect for entertaining or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 fresh goat cheese log or disc (approximately 4-6 ounces)
- 3 tablespoons fig jam
- 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
Optional Toppings
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for warming the appetizer.
- Prepare Cheese: Carefully unwrap the goat cheese log or disc and place it in a small, shallow oven-safe dish or a rustic terra cotta baking dish for even heating.
- Apply Fig Jam: Spread the fig jam evenly over the top and slightly down the sides of the goat cheese to infuse sweetness throughout.
- Add Pecans: Evenly scatter the roughly chopped pecans over the fig jam layer, adding a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, until the goat cheese softens and becomes warm to the touch, enhancing the flavors.
- Finish with Toppings: Remove the goat cheese from the oven, then drizzle with honey or maple syrup as desired, and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for added aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve the warm goat cheese immediately alongside warm baguette slices, crispy crostini, or gourmet crackers for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- For a vegan alternative, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese.
- Adjust baking time if you prefer the cheese less or more softened.
- Extra virgin olive oil can be drizzled before baking for a richer flavor.
- Use fresh herbs according to your preference; rosemary and thyme pair excellently.
- Serve immediately for best texture and taste; leftovers can be chilled but are best warm.
