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Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

4.4 from 137 reviews

Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry rolled with sweet fig preserves, tangy goat cheese, fresh thyme, and a touch of brown sugar. These elegant, bite-sized treats bake to golden perfection and offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for entertaining or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Puff Pastry: Thoroughly thaw the puff pastry sheet in the refrigerator until pliable but still cold. Unroll it on a flat surface lined with parchment paper, making sure it is evenly spread out and ready for filling.
  2. Spread the Fig Preserves: Using a spatula, spread the fig preserves evenly over the pastry sheet, leaving a ½ inch border around the edges to prevent filling from oozing out during baking.
  3. Add the Cheese and Seasonings: Evenly distribute the crumbled goat cheese over the fig preserves. Then sprinkle the brown sugar and fresh thyme leaves evenly across the surface to add flavor and aroma.
  4. Roll and Chill: Carefully roll the puff pastry tightly into a log shape starting from one edge. Wrap the roll tightly in parchment paper and place it in the freezer for about 20 minutes to firm up for easier slicing.
  5. Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chilled roll from the freezer and slice it into ½-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Place the pinwheels spaced evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pinwheel generously with beaten egg wash for a golden finish.
  6. Bake: Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they puff up and turn a beautiful golden-brown color. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
  7. Optional Garnish: After baking, sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans and additional fresh thyme if desired for added texture and presentation.

Notes

  • Use cold but pliable puff pastry to prevent tearing and ensure crisp layers.
  • Freeze the rolled pastry before slicing to achieve clean cuts and maintain shape.
  • Use a very sharp knife to avoid squashing the pinwheels when slicing.
  • Moderate the filling amounts to prevent soggy pastry.
  • Egg wash helps achieve a golden, glossy finish and seals edges.
  • For best browning, bake on a parchment-lined or silicone mat-lined sheet.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container; refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes on a wire rack for crispness; avoid microwaving.

Keywords: fig pinwheels, goat cheese appetizer, puff pastry snacks, sweet and savory bites, party appetizers