Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

If you’re looking for a delightful appetizer that combines savory, creamy, and sweet flavors, you’ve come to the right place! These Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts are not just a treat for your taste buds but also an absolute showstopper at gatherings. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something special or for family gatherings where everyone loves a bite-sized snack.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of rich goat cheese and luscious fig jam, complemented by caramelized onions and fresh thyme. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these tarts will elevate any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have these tarts ready in no time.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden puff pastry and colorful toppings make these tarts look gourmet.
• Versatile Flavor: They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them great for any event.
• Family-Friendly: Even kids love the sweet and savory combination—perfect for all ages!
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling in advance, making it easy to assemble right before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delicious tarts! You’ll find that each component works harmoniously together to create a flavor explosion.

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the cheese: Use feta or cream cheese instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Change the jam: Experiment with different fruit jams like apricot or raspberry for unique twists.
• Add some crunch: Top with chopped nuts like walnuts or pistachios for added texture.
• Mix herbs: Try using rosemary or basil instead of thyme for a fresh herb twist.

How to Make Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

Step 1: Prepare Your Pastry

Start by preparing your rough puff pastry or defrosting frozen puff pastry if you’re using store-bought. If you make your own, remember that you only need half a batch. This leftover dough can be saved for future use!

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 400ºF and position an oven rack in the middle part of the oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your tarts won’t stick during baking.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry

On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to about ⅛-inch thickness. Aim for a rectangle about 10-by-14 inches. If using store-bought pastry, just lay it out on your floured counter per package instructions.

Step 4: Cut Out Circles

Using a 2-3/4-inch circle cutter, stamp out as many circles as you can from the pastry. Aim for at least 16 circles. It’s best not to re-roll scraps; instead, save them for another use.

Step 5: Dock the Pastry

To prevent excessive rising during baking, dock each circle by making light indentations in their centers without cutting through. A fork is perfect for this task!

Step 6: Assemble on Baking Sheet

Place your docked circles on the prepared baking sheet with space between them. Brush each circle lightly with egg wash before adding a heaping teaspoon of caramelized onions right in the center.

Step 7: Chill Before Baking

Set your assembled pastries aside in the freezer or refrigerator while you prep your other ingredients. This helps keep their shape while baking.

Step 8: Prepare Goat Cheese

Cut the goat cheese into small pieces about ½ inch thick. If you’d like them to look neater, roll each piece into little balls before refrigerating until needed.

Step 9: Prepare Fig Jam

Transfer your fig jam into a piping bag or zip-top bag—you’re going to pipe it into those lovely pastry puffs later!

Step 10: Bake Initial Pastries

Bake the puff pastry rounds in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes until they are nicely puffed but not yet golden brown.

Step 11: Pipe In Filling

Working quickly after removing from the oven, gently press down any puffed areas with the edge of your piping bag. Then pipe approximately two teaspoons of fig jam into each center before adding a piece of goat cheese.

Step 12: Final Baking

Return your pastries to the oven and bake again for an additional 5-8 minutes until they’re golden brown and beautifully puffed up.

Step 13: Cool Slightly

Once baked, let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps maintain their crispness!

Step 14: Add Fresh Herbs

Finally, pick fresh thyme leaves off their stems and sprinkle them over each tart just before serving. Enjoy these warm or at room temperature—you can’t go wrong either way!

Pro Tips for Making Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

Creating these delightful tarts is a breeze when you follow these helpful tips!

• Use chilled ingredients: Keeping your goat cheese and puff pastry cold will help achieve that perfect flaky texture. Warm ingredients can lead to a dough that doesn’t rise as beautifully.

• Don’t skip the docking: Docking the pastry with a fork prevents it from puffing too much in the center, ensuring you have enough space for the delicious filling.

• Experiment with cheeses: While goat cheese provides a creamy tang, feel free to experiment with other soft cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone for a twist on flavor.

• Make ahead: You can prepare the tarts up to the point of baking, then freeze them. Just pop them into the oven straight from the freezer when you’re ready to serve!

• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can mix in some fresh herbs or spices with the fig jam for a more complex flavor profile. A pinch of black pepper or rosemary can add an unexpected depth!

How to Serve Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts

These tarts are not only delicious but also visually stunning! Present them beautifully for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy gathering or formal event.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a pop of color and enhances the herbaceous notes in the dish.
• Honey drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the tarts right before serving can heighten their sweetness and create an irresistible glaze.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and complement the creaminess of the goat cheese.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tarts.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots offer vibrant colors and flavors that pair wonderfully with your tarts.
• Bruschetta: A platter of toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze creates a lovely appetizer spread that complements your savory treats.
• Cheese board: Include a variety of cheeses alongside crackers, fruits, and olives for an elegant touch that pairs perfectly with your Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts.

Enjoy crafting these delightful bites—they’re sure to impress your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal appetizer to whip up ahead of time for any gathering or special occasion. Here’s how you can store or prepare them in advance to save time.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They should keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain their flaky texture, it’s best to consume them within this time frame.

Freezing

• You can freeze unbaked tarts: assemble them up to the point of baking, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the tarts to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for up to 2 months.
• When ready to bake, you can cook them from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat baked tarts, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the tarts on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help keep the pastry crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts!

Can I use a different cheese instead of goat cheese?

Absolutely! While goat cheese offers a unique tangy flavor, you could substitute it with cream cheese or ricotta for a different taste profile.

How do I make Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure all ingredients used, especially store-bought items like puff pastry and fig jam, are free from animal-derived products.

Are Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts suitable for parties?

Yes! These tarts make fantastic finger foods that are sure to impress guests at any gathering. Their combination of savory and sweet flavors is always a hit!

Can I prepare Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare these tarts in advance by assembling them and freezing before baking, which makes party prep easy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying this delightful recipe for Goat Cheese and Fig Puff Pastry Tarts! They blend creamy goat cheese with sweet fig jam and savory caramelized onions into perfect little bites that will surely wow your family and friends. Enjoy making these tasty treats, and remember—they’re not just appetizers; they’re a way to share joy at your table. Happy cooking!