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8 ounces goat cheese (softened to room temperature) Recipe

8 ounces goat cheese (softened to room temperature) Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 9 reviews

This Goat Cheese and Fig Jam Spread is a delightful combination of creamy goat and cream cheeses layered with sweet fig jam and a touch of tangy balsamic vinegar. Baked until bubbly and topped with toasted pecans and fresh herbs, it makes a perfect appetizer served with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Base

  • 8 ounces goat cheese (softened to room temperature)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)

Jam & Vinegar

  • 1/2 cup fig jam
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Toppings

  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts, almonds, or pistachios)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme and rosemary, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking the spread evenly.
  2. Mix Cheese: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the base layer of your spread.
  3. Layer Cheese: Spread the combined cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, creating a smooth surface for the jam layer.
  4. Add Fig Jam: Layer the fig jam over the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. This adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the spread.
  5. Drizzle Balsamic: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the fig jam layer to provide a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness.
  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the jam is bubbling and hot, indicating the spread is ready.
  7. Toast Nuts: While the spread is baking, toast the chopped pecans in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned, enhancing their flavor and crunch.
  8. Garnish: Remove the spread from the oven and immediately sprinkle the fresh chopped thyme and rosemary along with the toasted pecans evenly on top.
  9. Serve: Allow the spread to cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
  • Try different fresh herbs such as basil or oregano for a variation in flavor.
  • Use your favorite type of jam; apricot, raspberry, or cherry make great alternatives.
  • Ensure the cheeses are softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
  • This spread is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Nutrition

Keywords: goat cheese spread, fig jam appetizer, cheese and jam dip, baked cheese spread, easy party appetizer

Find it online: https://dailysimplerecipe.com/8-ounces-goat-cheese-softened-to-room-temperature-recipe/