Savory, creamy, and sweet, these Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts are the ultimate small-bite appetizer for any occasion. Perfect for parties or holiday gatherings, these tarts bring together the rich flavor of goat cheese with the sweetness of fig jam and caramelized onions. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
- Versatile Appetizer: Suitable for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy goat cheese, sweet figs, and savory onions creates an unforgettable taste sensation.
- Impressive Presentation: These tarts not only taste great but also look beautiful on any platter.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the puff pastry in advance and assemble the tarts just before baking.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything in place will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Circle cutter (2-3/4 inch)
- Fork
- Pastry bag or ziplock bag
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your tarts evenly.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Circle cutter: Ensures uniformity in size for a professional-looking presentation.
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
- Prepare rough puff pastry or defrost frozen puff pastry. If making it from scratch, you’ll only need half of the batch. You can freeze the remaining half for later use.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) and position an oven rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about ⅛-inch thickness, creating a rectangle approximately 10 by 14 inches. If using store-bought pastry, simply lay it out on a lightly-floured surface according to package instructions.
Step 4: Cut Circles from Pastry
- Using a circle cutter (2-3/4 inches), stamp out at least 16 circles from the rolled pastry. Avoid re-rolling scraps; instead, place cutouts closely together.
Step 5: Docking the Pastry
- Make an indentation in each circle with a smaller cutter without cutting through. Then use a fork to dock the center of each circle to prevent excessive rising during baking.
Step 6: Assemble on Baking Sheet
- Arrange the cut pastry on your prepared baking sheet with space between each piece. Brush each circle with egg wash and add a heaping teaspoon of caramelized onions in the center.
Step 7: Chill Before Baking
- Set aside the assembled pastries in either the freezer or refrigerator while you prepare other ingredients.
Step 8: Prepare Goat Cheese
- Cut goat cheese into ½-inch pieces. You can leave them as they are or roll into balls for nicer presentation. Keep them chilled until you’re ready to assemble.
Step 9: Prepare Fig Jam
- Place fig jam into a pastry bag or ziplock bag for easy piping later on.
Step 10: First Bake
- Remove pastries from cold storage and bake for about 12 minutes until they puff up but haven’t yet turned golden brown.
Step 11: Add Fillings
- Quickly use a piping bag edge or small round cutter to press down any puffed areas in the middle. Pipe about two teaspoons of fig jam into each center before placing a piece of goat cheese on top.
Step 12: Final Bake
- Return pastries to oven and bake an additional 5-8 minutes until golden brown and cheese is slightly puffed up.
Step 13: Cool Down
- After removing from oven, let tarts cool slightly on baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Step 14: Add Fresh Thyme
- Pick fresh thyme leaves off their stems and sprinkle them over each tart just before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts
Serving Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts can elevate any gathering, making it special and memorable. These creamy and sweet tarts are versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavors.
As a Party Appetizer
- Serve warm as bite-sized snacks that guests can easily pick up.
- Pair with a selection of wines for a delightful tasting experience.
With Fresh Salad
- A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the tarts.
- Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
On a Charcuterie Board
- Include these tarts alongside cured meats, cheeses, and fruits for an attractive presentation.
- Offer various dips and spreads to create a diverse flavor palette.
With Dips
- Serve with honey or balsamic reduction for drizzling on top of the tarts.
- Include herbed cream cheese or hummus for guests who prefer a variety of flavors.
At a Brunch Spread
- Present these tarts as part of a brunch buffet alongside fresh fruits and pastries.
- Pair with mimosas or coffee for a perfect morning gathering.
How to Perfect Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts
Perfecting your Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your tarts come out delicious every time.
- Use quality ingredients: Opt for fresh goat cheese and high-quality fig jam to enhance the overall flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Watch the tarts closely in the oven; you want them golden but not burnt.
- Chill before baking: Chilling the filled pastry helps maintain its shape during baking.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh thyme adds great flavor; consider trying rosemary or basil for variation.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to add more fig jam or balance it with a tangy cheese variation.
- Serve immediately: These tarts are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, so serve them right away.
Best Side Dishes for Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts
Pairing side dishes with your Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad balances the richness of the tarts with light greens.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your plate.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Crisp breadsticks provide an excellent crunchy contrast.
- Fruit Platter: Fresh fruit like grapes or sliced apples complements the sweet figs nicely.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make a great addition, offering another layer of flavor.
- Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can round out your offerings while keeping things simple.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts can be fun, but there are common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some pitfalls to avoid to ensure your tarts turn out perfectly.
- Skipping the Egg Wash – Not brushing the pastry with egg wash can result in a dull finish. This step is crucial for achieving that golden, glossy appearance.
- Overworking the Pastry – If you roll out the dough too much, it could become tough. Handle the pastry gently and try to work quickly to maintain its flakiness.
- Ignoring Baking Times – Overbaking or underbaking can ruin your tarts. Keep a close eye on them in the oven to ensure they puff up and turn golden without burning.
- Using Cold Ingredients – Cold goat cheese may not melt properly in the oven. Allow it to come to room temperature before using it in your filling for better results.
- Not Using Fresh Herbs – Stale herbs can diminish the flavor of your tarts. Always use fresh thyme for a vibrant taste that complements the goat cheese and fig jam beautifully.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store tarts in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts
- Place cooled tarts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350ºF and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds; note this may make them slightly soggy.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, for about 5 minutes until warmed through without losing crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts vegetarian?
You can easily keep this recipe vegetarian by ensuring all ingredients, including fig jam, are free from animal products.
Can I substitute other cheeses?
Yes! Cream cheese or ricotta can be used instead of goat cheese if you prefer a milder flavor.
What can I serve with these tarts?
These Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts pair well with a variety of drinks like white wine or sparkling water, making them great for parties.
How do I customize toppings on my tarts?
Feel free to add different toppings like nuts or berries for added texture and flavor variations!
Final Thoughts
These Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts are savory yet sweet, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to play with flavors and ingredients based on personal preference. Try customizing them with your favorite herbs or other cheeses—your guests will love these delightful bites!
Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts, a delightful small-bite appetizer perfect for any gathering. These tarts feature a harmonious blend of creamy goat cheese, sweet fig jam, and savory caramelized onions, all enveloped in buttery puff pastry. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor and an elegant presentation that is sure to impress your guests. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, these tarts are not only delicious but also easy to make ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for holiday parties or casual get-togethers.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 16 tarts 1x
Ingredients
- ½ batch rough puff pastry or classic puff pastry
- 1 cup fig jam
- ½ cup prepared caramelized onions
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Egg wash (1 egg whisked with water or cream)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry to about ⅛-inch thickness and cut into 16 circles using a circle cutter.
- Dock each circle with a fork and chill while preparing fillings.
- Place caramelized onions in the center of each circle, followed by pieces of goat cheese.
- Pipe fig jam on top and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Chill the assembled pastries before baking for perfect puffing. Experiment with different herbs like rosemary for added flavor variations.
