Crispy toasted baguette slices layered with whipped goat cheese and sweet fig jam, garnished with fresh thyme — a harmonious blend of creamy, sweet, and herbaceous flavors. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a rustic brunch delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Whipped Goat Cheese & Fig Jam Crostini recipe is a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that delivers an impressive flavor profile with minimal effort. The contrast between the tangy whipped goat cheese and the sweet, rich fig jam creates a delightful balance, while the crispiness of the toasted baguette adds a satisfying texture. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a refined snack, this crostini is both versatile and elegant. It’s ideal for holiday spreads, dinner parties, or a special brunch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup fig jam or fig preserves
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush each side with olive oil.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whip together the goat cheese, cream cheese (if using), milk or cream, and lemon zest until smooth and airy. Use a hand mixer or food processor for best results.
- Spread a generous layer of whipped goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.
- Top each crostini with a spoonful of fig jam.
- Garnish with fresh thyme, a pinch of sea salt, and cracked black pepper.
- Serve immediately, or chill the components separately and assemble just before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 20 crostini and takes about 20 minutes to prepare from start to finish, including baking and assembly.
Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
- Honey Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle with a bit of honey just before serving.
- Herb Mix: Swap thyme with rosemary or basil for a different herbal note.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and plant-based cream.
- Savory Kick: Add a slice of prosciutto or a few crumbles of crispy pancetta on top.
Storage/Reheating
Store the whipped goat cheese mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Baguette slices can be toasted in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Assemble crostini just before serving to maintain the crisp texture. Avoid reheating assembled crostini, as the texture may become soggy.
FAQs
What kind of goat cheese should I use?
Use soft, fresh goat cheese (chèvre) for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the whipped goat cheese and toast the baguette slices in advance. Assemble just before serving for optimal texture.
Is cream cheese necessary in the recipe?
No, it’s optional. It simply adds extra creaminess to the whipped mixture.
Can I use a different type of jam?
Yes, you can substitute fig jam with other options like apricot, blackberry, or raspberry jam.
How do I keep the baguette slices crispy?
Allow them to cool completely after toasting and store in an airtight container until ready to use.
What wine pairs well with these crostini?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine pairs nicely with the creamy and sweet flavors.
Can I freeze the whipped goat cheese?
It’s not recommended, as the texture may change after thawing.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use a gluten-free baguette to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.
How long does whipped goat cheese last in the fridge?
It will keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What other herbs work well as a garnish?
Fresh rosemary, basil, or even a bit of mint can offer unique flavor twists.
Conclusion
Whipped Goat Cheese & Fig Jam Crostini is a wonderfully elegant yet easy appetizer that blends rich, tangy, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an ideal choice for any gathering or as a sophisticated snack. Enjoy the combination of textures and tastes that make this dish truly memorable.
Print
Whipped Goat Cheese & Fig Jam Crostini
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy toasted baguette slices topped with creamy whipped goat cheese and sweet fig jam, garnished with fresh thyme. An elegant appetizer or brunch treat blending creamy, sweet, and herbaceous flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup fig jam or fig preserves
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush each side with olive oil.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whip together goat cheese, cream cheese (if using), milk or cream, and lemon zest until smooth and airy.
- Spread a generous layer of whipped goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.
- Top with a spoonful of fig jam.
- Garnish with fresh thyme, sea salt, and cracked pepper.
- Serve immediately, or chill the components and assemble just before serving.
Notes
- Cream cheese adds extra creaminess but can be omitted.
- Use a piping bag for neat presentation.
- Great for make-ahead: prepare components and assemble later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 crostini
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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