Introduction

This goat cheese appetizer spread with fig jam and pecans is a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare and makes an elegant addition to any gathering or snack time. Serve it warm with crostini or crackers for a delightful treat.

A round white bowl holds a layered dip with three main layers: the bottom layer is smooth white cream cheese spread thickly, topped with a middle layer of shiny amber honey, and a top layer of chunky dark brown chutney mixed with chopped pecans and fresh green thyme sprigs scattered unevenly. A gold spoon with a dark handle rests inside the bowl on the right, scooping some of the dip. To the right near the bowl, there is a small toasted white bread round spread with the same dip mixture, garnished with thyme. Above the bowl, a few toasted white bread slices sit on a small wire rack. To the left of the bowl, some chopped pecans fill a small black bowl, and a striped gray and white cloth is draped around the bottom left edge. Sprigs of fresh thyme lie at the lower right on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces goat cheese (softened to room temperature)
4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
1/2 cup fig jam
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts, almonds, or pistachios)
2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme and rosemary

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the spread.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth and well combined. This creates a creamy base for the spread.
Step 3: Spread the combined cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish, forming a uniform layer.
Step 4: Spoon the fig jam over the cheese mixture and use a spatula to spread it evenly for balanced sweetness in every bite.
Step 5: Pour the balsamic vinegar evenly over the fig jam layer to add a tangy depth of flavor.
Step 6: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the fig jam is bubbling and the spread is heated through.
Step 7: While the spread is baking, toast the chopped pecans (or your preferred nuts) in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Step 8: Remove the spread from the oven and immediately sprinkle with the toasted nuts and chopped fresh thyme and rosemary. Let it cool for a few minutes to set slightly before serving.
Step 9: Serve the warm appetizer spread with crostini, crackers, or vegetable crudités for dipping and spreading.

Tips & Variations

Use different nuts like walnuts or pistachios to vary the flavor and texture.
Try incorporating a drizzle of honey over the top for added sweetness.
Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried if fresh are not available, but use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
For a vegan option, try using plant-based cream cheese and a fruit preserve instead of fig jam.

Storage

Store any leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to restore its creamy texture. Nuts may lose their crunch when stored with the spread, so consider toasting extra before serving leftovers.

How to Serve

A white oval dish filled with a creamy white baked dip topped with a shiny, dark red-brown sauce and sprinkled with chopped nuts and small green herbs. A woman's hand is dipping a round, light golden-brown cracker into the dip, lifting some of the creamy white mixture. The dish sits on a white marbled textured surface, and a small sprig of rosemary is placed on one side of the dip for decoration. The overall look is warm and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this spread ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the spread in the baking dish and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

What can I serve this spread with?

This spread pairs wonderfully with crostini, crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery for a variety of dipping options.