Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

Savory, creamy, and sweet, these Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts are the perfect small-bite appetizer to impress your guests at any party or holiday gathering. With a delightful combination of flavors and textures, these tarts are sure to be a hit. Their easy preparation makes them suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick yet elegant dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of goat cheese with fig jam creates a sweet and savory delight that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual gathering, holiday bash, or formal event, these tarts fit right in.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, making these tarts is a breeze.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for buffet-style meals.
• Impressive Presentation: These bite-sized beauties look gourmet but are easy to make at home.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts successfully, you’ll need the right tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Circle cutter
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry bag or ziplock bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Helps you achieve the perfect thickness of puff pastry for an even bake.
• Circle cutter: Ensures uniform tart shapes for consistent cooking and presentation.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for all tarts while allowing proper airflow during baking.

Ingredients

Savory, creamy, and sweet, these Goat Cheese, Sweet Onion and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts are the most delicious small-bite appetizer to serve at a party or holiday!

Ingredients:
– ½ batch rough puff pastry or classic puff pastry (or store-bought, see notes)
– All-purpose flour (for work surface)
– Egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 teaspoon of water or cream)
– 1 cup fig jam
– ½ cup prepared caramelized onions, rough chopped
– 4 ounces goat cheese
– 6-10 sprigs of fresh thyme

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by preparing either your homemade rough puff pastry or defrosting store-bought puff pastry. If you made it from scratch, you only need half of the batch. The remaining half can be frozen for future use.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Position an oven rack in the middle section. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about ⅛-inch thick—aiming for a rectangle around 10-by-14 inches. If using store-bought pastry, follow package instructions before laying it out on the floured surface.

Step 4: Cut Out Circles

Using a circle cutter (about 2-3/4 inches), stamp out circles from the pastry. You should yield at least 16 circles. Avoid re-rolling scraps; instead, save them for another recipe.

Step 5: Dock the Pastry

To dock each circle, use a smaller cutter (around 2 inches) to create an indentation in the center without cutting through completely. Then take a fork to dock down the middle part of each circle.

Step 6: Assemble Before Baking

Place your cut pastries on the lined baking sheet with space between each one. Brush them with egg wash and add about a heaping teaspoon of caramelized onions into each center.

Step 7: Chill While Preparing Other Ingredients

Keep the assembled pastries in either the freezer or refrigerator while you prepare goat cheese and fig jam.

Step 8: Prepare Goat Cheese

Cut goat cheese into small pieces (about ½-inch). Optionally roll each piece into balls for a neater appearance before setting aside in the refrigerator until needed.

Step 9: Prepare Fig Jam

Transfer fig jam into either a pastry bag or ziplock bag for easy piping later on.

Step 10: Bake Initial Layer

Remove pastries from refrigeration and bake them for about 12 minutes until they puff but do not turn golden yet.

Step 11: Fill Pastries Quickly

While still warm from baking, quickly push down any overly puffed centers using your piping bag edge or cutter. Pipe approximately two teaspoons of fig jam into each center followed by placing goat cheese on top.

Step 12: Final Bake

Return pastries to oven for another additional 5-8 minutes until they turn golden brown and goat cheese begins to puff up nicely.

Step 13: Cool Slightly

Once baked perfectly, take out from oven and allow cooling slightly on baking sheets before transferring onto a cooling rack.

Step 14: Garnish & Serve

Finally, pick thyme leaves off their stems and sprinkle over each tart. Serve warm or allow them to reach room temperature before serving. Enjoy your delicious Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts!

How to Serve Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

Serving Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts is all about presentation and pairing. These delightful tarts can elevate any gathering, whether casual or formal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your appetizer shine.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens – A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the tarts.
• Beet Salad – Roasted beets with goat cheese and walnuts add a contrasting flavor and texture that pairs wonderfully.

Offer a Variety of Dips

• Balsamic Reduction – Drizzle this over the tarts for an elegant touch; it enhances the sweetness of figs.
• Herbed Yogurt Dip – A cool dip with fresh herbs balances the warm tarts perfectly.

Create a Charcuterie Board

• Cheese Selection – Include other cheeses like brie and aged cheddar for variety.
• Cured Meats – Prosciutto or salami adds a savory element that works well with the sweet figs.

Serve with Wine

• Sauvignon Blanc – This wine complements the creamy goat cheese beautifully.
• Pinot Noir – The fruit notes in this red wine pair nicely with fig flavors.

How to Perfect Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

To ensure your Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Balance – Use high-quality goat cheese for creaminess. The richness enhances the overall flavor.
• Chill Before Baking – Allowing pastry rounds to chill helps them maintain their shape during baking.
• Don’t Overfill – Pipe just enough fig jam and add a small piece of goat cheese to avoid spills while baking.
• Watch the Oven Time – Keep an eye on your tarts towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
• Garnish Smartly – Fresh thyme adds aroma and an appealing visual contrast. Sprinkle just before serving for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

Complement your Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts with these delicious side dishes. Each option enhances the overall dining experience while maintaining balance in flavors.

1. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta adds a refreshing crunch alongside the rich tarts.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs create a hearty bite that pairs well.
4. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a slight sweetness that echoes the fig flavor in the tarts.
5. Creamy Polenta – Smooth polenta topped with parmesan brings a comforting texture that complements the flaky pastry.
6. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus spears add a fresh element that balances out richness from the tarts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Not rolling the pastry thin enough: If the pastry is too thick, it may not puff properly. Aim for about ⅛-inch thickness to ensure a light and flaky texture.
• Skipping the docking step: Failing to dock the pastry can lead to over-puffed centers. Remember to create indentations and use a fork to prevent excessive rising during baking.
• Overfilling with jam: Adding too much fig jam can cause overflow while baking. Stick to about 2 teaspoons per tart for optimal results.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and follow the recommended temperature closely.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold goat cheese can be harder to work with. Allow it to come to room temperature for easier handling and better melting during baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tarts in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

• Freeze before baking for best results.
• Place unbaked tarts on a baking sheet, cover them, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Place tarts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat tarts on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds. This method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes until warm without losing crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts ahead of time?

You can prepare the tarts by assembling them without baking. Store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use different cheeses for these tarts?

Yes! You can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or ricotta if you prefer a milder flavor.

What can I serve with Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts?

These tarts pair well with salad, charcuterie boards, or as part of an appetizer spread at parties.

How do I customize my Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or include other herbs such as rosemary for additional flavor.

Final Thoughts

Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any gathering. Their savory-sweet balance makes them an appealing choice for appetizers or snacks. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients; whether you choose different cheeses or add extra toppings, these tarts will surely impress your guests!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful blend of savory and sweet with these Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts. Perfect for any occasion, these elegant bite-sized appetizers feature a creamy goat cheese filling topped with luscious fig jam and caramelized onions, all nestled in flaky puff pastry. Their impressive presentation makes them an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, while their easy preparation ensures that both novice cooks and experienced chefs can whip them up with minimal effort. Serve warm or at room temperature, and watch as your guests rave about this gourmet appetizer.

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Ingredients

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• ½ batch puff pastry (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup fig jam
• ½ cup caramelized onions, chopped
• 4 ounces goat cheese
• Fresh thyme sprigs
• Egg wash (1 egg whisked with water or cream)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about ⅛-inch thick on a floured surface. Cut into circles (about 2-3/4 inches) using a circle cutter.
3. Dock each circle with a smaller cutter or fork to prevent over-puffing.
4. Place circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and add a teaspoon of caramelized onions to the center.
5. Chill tarts while preparing goat cheese and fig jam. Cut goat cheese into small pieces.
6. Bake for 12 minutes until puffed but not golden.
7. Quickly fill each tart with fig jam and goat cheese, then return to the oven for another 5-8 minutes until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving warm or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tart (30g)
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg