Savory Fig and Goat Cheese

These savory fig and goat cheese pinwheels are a deliciously flaky and flavorful appetizer that comes together quickly for your next party or casual gathering. The sweet fig jam pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese, all wrapped in golden puff pastry that delivers a satisfying crunch.

I first made these for a friend’s birthday party and was surprised how everyone kept going back for more. They are truly one of those appetizers that disappear quickly.

Ingredients

• One sheet of puff pastry: about 8.8 ounces or 250 grams thawed to get that buttery and flaky texture
• One third cup of fig jam: adds natural sweetness and a luscious fruit flavor look for one with whole figs if you can
• Three and a half ounces of softened goat cheese: provides the creamy tang that balances the sweetness nicely
• One large egg for the egg wash: helps achieve that golden brown crust
• One teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped: optional for an herbal hint that brightens the flavors
• Black pepper to taste: optional for a little kick
• Two tablespoons of chopped walnuts or pecans: optional for added crunch and nutty depth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare the Puff Pastry:

Gently unfold your thawed puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface or parchment paper. If needed roll it out to about one eighth of an inch thickness to ensure an even base.

Spread the Fillings:

Spread the fig jam evenly over the surface leaving a half inch border all around to prevent the filling from leaking while baking. Then dollop and spread the softened goat cheese evenly on top of the jam. If using herbs and nuts sprinkle them evenly now along with black pepper.

Roll into a Log:

Starting from the longer side roll the pastry tightly into a log making sure to pinch any cracks to seal so the fillings do not spill during baking.

Optional Chill:

Place the rolled pastry log in the freezer for five to ten minutes to make slicing easier and keep the shape intact.

Slice the Pinwheels:

Slice the log into rounds about one half inch thick aiming for twelve to sixteen pieces depending on size. Arrange them cut side up on your parchment lined baking sheet spacing about one inch apart.

Brush with Egg Wash:

Lightly brush each pinwheel with the whisked egg. This step helps create that shiny golden appearance.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake in the preheated oven for twelve to fifteen minutes or until the pinwheels puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the pinwheels to cool on the baking sheet for three to five minutes before transferring them to a platter. They are best served warm or at room temperature.

Save

Goat cheese is my favorite ingredient here because its tangy creaminess enhances the sweetness of the fig jam perfectly. I remember making these pinwheels for a holiday party and watching my guests light up with every bite. It quickly became a tradition I love sharing.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to revive the crisp pastry. If you want to prepare ahead freeze the raw sliced pinwheels on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fig jam is hard to find try apricot or raspberry preserves for a different but complementary fruity sweetness. Cream cheese can replace goat cheese if you prefer a milder flavor. For nuts any chopped almonds or even sunflower seeds work well if you have allergies. Fresh herbs like sage or basil can swap in for thyme or rosemary for a new flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pinwheels as finger food with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. They also pair beautifully with charcuterie boards and a glass of white wine or sparkling water. Perfect for brunch, holiday parties, or any casual get-together when you want an easy but impressive treat.

Cultural and Historical Context

The use of puff pastry filled with sweet and savory combinations is a classic technique in French pastry making, often found in hors d'oeuvres for elegant occasions. Figs have been enjoyed since ancient times and symbolize abundance, while goat cheese adds a Mediterranean flair. This recipe melds these traditions into a modern American appetizer beloved at gatherings.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pastry works best for these pinwheels?

Flaky puff pastry is preferred due to its light layers and golden finish when baked, adding a delightful crisp texture.

→ Can I prepare the pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes, you can freeze the rolled pinwheel log before slicing. Bake directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How can I ensure the pinwheels hold their shape while baking?

Chilling the rolled pastry log in the freezer for 5-10 minutes before slicing helps maintain clean, tight spirals during baking.

→ What are some good alternatives for toppings or fillings?

Try swapping fig jam with other fruit preserves or using different soft cheeses. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme and chopped nuts can add exciting variations.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any uneaten pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve flakiness.