These Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastries are a delightful treat that blends the creamy, tangy nature of goat cheese with the sweet, fruity essence of fresh figs. Wrapped in flaky, golden puff pastry, they make for an excellent appetizer or a perfect addition to any brunch spread. Served warm, these bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, inviting everyone to dive into their comforting flavor and beautiful presentation.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 pastries
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastry
Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastry is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes. The contrast between the soft goat cheese, the sweet figs, and the light, flaky pastry creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. These pastries are perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. They’re quick to make, visually stunning, and absolutely delicious, offering something special that will impress family and friends alike.
How to Make Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastry
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pastries will bake quickly and evenly, achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.
Step 2: Rolling and Cutting
Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut it into squares, roughly 4 inches in size. A pizza cutter or pastry cutter makes this task easy and precise!
Step 3: Mixing the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, honey, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture should be creamy and aromatic, with the honey adding a perfect hint of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the goat cheese.
Step 4: Assembling the Pastries
Place a spoonful of the goat cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Top with a few sliced figs, ensuring to leave enough space around the edges for sealing. Fold the corners of the pastry over the filling and pinch to seal securely.
Step 5: Brushing and Baking
Brush the tops of the pastries with the beaten egg to give them a lovely golden color when baked. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffy and golden brown.
Step 6: Serving
Once baked, serve the pastries warm. Their delightful aroma will be irresistible, drawing everyone to the table!
How to Serve Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastry
These pastries shine on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them alongside a light salad or a selection of charcuterie. A drizzle of extra honey or balsamic reduction can also enhance their flavor. Perfect for a brunch, a cozy dinner party, or even as a delightful snack with wine!
How to Store Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastry
Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they are warmed through and flaky again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the pastry soggy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastry
- Use Cold Ingredients: Keep your puff pastry cold until you’re ready to use it. This will help it puff up beautifully in the oven.
- Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs. Rosemary or basil can also add a nice flavor twist.
- Egg Wash Alternatives: If you want a vegan option, use a plant-based milk for brushing instead of egg for a lovely sheen.
- Check for Doneness: If the tops are brown but the pastry isn’t fully cooked, cover the tops with foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking.
Delicious Variations
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a delightful crunch.
- Different Cheeses: Swap goat cheese for feta or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Fruit Substitutions: Try using sliced pears or apples instead of figs, especially in colder months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen figs?
Yes, you can use frozen figs! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using them. - Can I use store-bought filling?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a pre-made cheese spread can work well. - How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free puff pastry available at many grocery stores to cater to gluten-intolerant diners. - What can I serve with these pastries?
Pair them with a light salad, a cheese platter, or a sweet and tangy chutney. - Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them and store them in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go in cold.
Conclusion
Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastries are a lovely addition to any meal or gathering, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, wrapped in a flaky pastry shell. They are easy to make, pleasing to the eye, and sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you will find joy in creating and sharing these delicious bites. So roll up your sleeves and let the delightful aroma of baked pastries fill your kitchen—your taste buds will be grateful!
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Fig and Goat Cheese Puff Pastries
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 12 pastries 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful puff pastries filled with creamy goat cheese and sweet figs, perfect for appetizers or brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 6 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2–3 fresh figs, sliced
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface until about 1/8 inch thick and cut into squares (4 inches each).
- In a mixing bowl, combine goat cheese, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place a spoonful of the goat cheese mixture in the center of each square and top with sliced figs, then fold corners over the filling and pinch to seal.
- Brush tops with beaten egg, place on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and aroma!
Notes
Can be served with a light salad or charcuterie. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pastry
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
