Easy Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam & Pecans Recipe
This easy goat cheese appetizer with fig jam and pecans is a delightful and elegant starter perfect for entertaining. Creamy goat cheese is beautifully complemented by a warm, sweet fig jam mixture enhanced with honey, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme. Topped with crunchy pecans and served with crostini or crackers, this recipe comes together in just 10 minutes making it an ideal no-fuss appetizer that impresses.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cheese Base
- 300 g softened goat cheese (about 0.66 lb, 10 oz or 1 1/4 – 1 1/3 cups goat cheese)
Fig Jam Mixture
- 1/2 cup fig jam
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 2-3 sprigs of thyme, leaves removed
- Pinch of sea salt
To Serve
- Crostini or crackers
Instructions
- Spread Goat Cheese: Place the softened goat cheese onto a low bowl or serving plate, spreading it evenly to create a smooth base. Drizzle the olive oil over the goat cheese to add richness and a subtle fruity flavor.
- Warm Fig Jam Mixture: In a small pot over medium heat, combine fig jam, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Whisk the ingredients together until blended, and allow the mixture to warm gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pot from heat and let the fig jam mixture cool for about 5 minutes. This resting step will thicken the mixture slightly while still keeping it pourable.
- Drizzle Fig Jam Over Cheese: Drizzle or gently spread the warm fig jam mixture evenly over the goat cheese layer, ensuring each bite will have a blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves evenly across the top, followed by the chopped pecans for added crunch and nuttiness. Finish with a pinch of sea salt to elevate the flavors.
- Serve: Present the goat cheese appetizer with crostini or your preferred crackers for easy serving and enjoyment.
Notes
- Use softened goat cheese for easy spreading and smooth texture.
- Honey can be adjusted to taste depending on desired sweetness.
- Fresh thyme leaves add a fragrant herbal note; dried thyme is not recommended.
- Serve immediately or within a few hours; this appetizer is best enjoyed fresh.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Use gluten-free crackers to make the appetizer gluten-free.
