Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Introduction

Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels combine sweet fig preserves with tangy goat cheese wrapped in buttery puff pastry. These elegant bites are easy to make and perfect for parties, brunch, or holiday gatherings. Their flaky, golden exterior hides a creamy, flavorful filling that will impress your guests every time.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• ½ cup fig preserves (or fig jam)
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Optional: crushed walnuts or pecans

Instructions

1. Step 1: Let the puff pastry thaw completely and place it on parchment paper on a flat surface.
2. Step 2: Spread the fig preserves evenly over the pastry, leaving a ½ inch border around the edges.
3. Step 3: Crumble the goat cheese over the fig layer, then sprinkle the brown sugar and fresh thyme evenly on top.
4. Step 4: Roll the pastry tightly into a log, wrap it in parchment paper, and freeze for 20 minutes to firm up for easier slicing.
5. Step 5: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the chilled log into ½-inch rounds using a sharp knife.
6. Step 6: Place the pinwheel slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush each with the beaten egg wash.
7. Step 7: Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Optionally, garnish with crushed nuts or fresh thyme after baking.

Tips & Variations

• Use apricot, date, or raspberry jam instead of fig preserves for a different flavor.
• Swap goat cheese for Brie, mascarpone, or vegan cheese to suit your preference.
• Try herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil as an alternative to thyme.
• Add caramelized onions or prosciutto for a savory twist.
• Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pistachios on top for extra crunch.

Storage

Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to keep pastry crisp. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days, though the pastry may soften. You can freeze unbaked slices on a tray until solid, then transfer to a bag and freeze up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–8 minutes for best texture. Avoid microwaving as it makes the pastry soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another cheese instead of goat cheese?

Yes! Brie or mascarpone are delicious milder substitutes that pair well with fig preserves.

What kind of jam goes well with goat cheese?

Besides fig, apricot, raspberry, and cranberry jams complement goat cheese beautifully and offer tasty alternatives.

Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Print Recipe

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Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are an elegant and delicious appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry rolled with sweet fig preserves, tangy goat cheese, fresh thyme, and a touch of brown sugar. These bite-sized pinwheels are perfect for holiday gatherings, wine nights, or upscale snack options, offering a superb balance of sweet and savory flavors with a golden, crispy finish.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12–14 pinwheels 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Filling

• ½ cup fig preserves (or fig jam)
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme

For Finishing

• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Optional: crushed walnuts or pecans for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep Your Puff Pastry: Allow the puff pastry to thaw completely if frozen. Unfold it and place it on parchment paper laid on a flat surface, ready for filling.
2. Spread the Fig Preserves: Evenly spread the fig preserves over the entire surface of the pastry, taking care to leave about a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the fig preserves. Next, evenly distribute the brown sugar and strip the thyme leaves from the sprigs, sprinkling them across the cheese layer.
4. Roll and Chill: Carefully roll the pastry into a tight log shape starting from one edge. Wrap the rolled log tightly in parchment paper and freeze for 20 minutes to firm up, which will make slicing easier and neater.
5. Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a very sharp knife, slice the chilled log into ½-inch thick rounds. Place these pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow even heat circulation. Brush each pinwheel top with beaten egg wash to enhance browning and seal edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.

Notes

• Use cold puff pastry for best handling and a flaky texture.
• Freeze the rolled log before slicing to prevent squashing and maintain swirl shape.
• Use a sharp knife, cleaning it between cuts, to get clean slices.
• Don’t overfill the pastry to avoid sogginess and spilling filling.
• Apply egg wash generously to achieve a golden, appetizing crust.
• Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and aid cleanup.
• Garnish pinwheels after baking with fresh thyme, nuts, or a drizzle of honey for added presentation and flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container; keep at room temperature up to 1 day or refrigerated up to 3 days.
• Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5–8 minutes for best crispness; avoid microwave to prevent soggy pastry.

Keywords: Fig Pinwheels, Goat Cheese Appetizer, Puff Pastry Snacks, Holiday Appetizer, Sweet and Savory Bites