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Easy Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam & Pecans Recipe

Easy Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam & Pecans Recipe

4.8 from 19 reviews

This Easy Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam & Pecans is a delightful and elegant starter that combines creamy goat cheese with the sweet richness of fig jam, crunchy pecans, and aromatic thyme. Perfect for entertaining or a simple gourmet snack, it pairs beautifully with crostini or crackers.

Ingredients

Scale

Goat Cheese Base

  • 300 g softened goat cheese (about 0.66 lb, 10 oz or 1 1/41 1/3 cups goat cheese)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Fig Jam Topping

  • 1/2 cup fig jam
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans
  • 23 sprigs of thyme, leaves removed
  • Pinch of sea salt

For Serving

  • Crostini or crackers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the goat cheese base: Spread the softened goat cheese evenly on a low bowl or plate and drizzle with olive oil to enhance the creaminess.
  2. Warm the fig jam mixture: In a small pot over medium heat, combine honey, fig jam, and balsamic vinegar. Whisk continuously and heat for about 5 minutes until the mixture is well blended and slightly thickened.
  3. Cool the mixture: Remove the pot from heat and let the fig jam mixture cool for about 5 minutes to avoid melting the goat cheese when applied.
  4. Assemble the appetizer: Drizzle or gently spread the slightly cooled fig jam mixture over the goat cheese layer evenly.
  5. Add garnish: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and chopped pecans over the top to add flavor and texture.
  6. Season and serve: Add a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness and serve immediately with crostini or crackers for a delicious bite-sized appetizer.

Notes

  • Use high-quality, softened goat cheese for best texture and flavor.
  • The fig jam mixture can be prepared ahead and kept at room temperature before assembly.
  • Fresh thyme leaves bring an aromatic freshness—do not substitute dried thyme.
  • Serve immediately after assembly for the best texture contrast between creamy cheese and crunchy pecans.
  • Pair with your favorite white wine or sparkling wine for a perfect appetizer experience.

Nutrition

Keywords: goat cheese appetizer, fig jam appetizer, easy appetizer, pecans, thyme, party snack, crostini topping