Honey Walnut Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

Flaky, buttery puff pastry rounds are topped with creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, fresh thyme, and a luscious drizzle of sweet honey, creating an elegant and irresistible savory-sweet appetizer. Perfect for entertaining or adding a touch of sophistication to any gathering, these tarts are simple yet stunning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Walnut Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts strike the perfect balance between savory and sweet, creamy and crunchy. They require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor and visual appeal, making them ideal for brunches, cocktail parties, or holiday gatherings. The flaky pastry contrasts beautifully with the creamy goat cheese and crunchy nuts, while the honey and thyme add layers of flavor that are both fresh and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons honey (plus extra for drizzling)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 4 equal circles using a bowl or cutter.
3. Place the pastry circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Lightly score a smaller circle inside each pastry round without cutting all the way through to create a border.
5. Brush the edges with the beaten egg.
6. Spread the crumbled goat cheese within the scored circle of each pastry.
7. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and drizzle each tart with honey.
8. Top with fresh thyme leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper.
9. Bake for 15-18 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed.
10. Drizzle with extra honey before serving and garnish with more fresh thyme if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 tarts.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 18 minutes
Total time: 33 minutes

Variations

• Replace walnuts with pecans, pistachios, or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Add thin slices of pear or apple under the goat cheese for a fruity touch.
• Swap goat cheese for ricotta or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Infuse the honey with a sprig of rosemary for an herbal note.
• Use a rectangular cut of pastry and create mini tart squares for bite-sized appetizers.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes to crisp the pastry and warm the toppings. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I prepare these tarts ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What is the best way to cut the puff pastry?

Use a sharp knife or a pastry cutter to avoid pressing the layers together too much.

Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Yes, store-bought frozen puff pastry is perfect for this recipe and saves time.

How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?

Scoring a border and not overloading with toppings helps the pastry bake up crisp and flaky.

Can I substitute the goat cheese?

Yes, ricotta, feta, or a soft brie can work as substitutes depending on your preference.

Do I have to use fresh thyme?

Fresh thyme is recommended for best flavor, but you can use a small amount of dried thyme if necessary.

Can I make these into mini tarts for appetizers?

Yes, cut smaller rounds and reduce the baking time by a few minutes for perfect bite-sized tarts.

What should I serve these with?

They pair beautifully with a simple arugula salad, a glass of white wine, or a charcuterie board.

How do I store leftover puff pastry?

If you have leftover raw puff pastry, wrap it tightly and refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Is it necessary to thaw the puff pastry before using?

Yes, thaw the pastry in the refrigerator for even rolling and easy handling.

Conclusion

Honey Walnut Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts offer an irresistible combination of creamy cheese, sweet honey, crunchy nuts, and crisp, golden pastry. Easy enough for casual gatherings yet elegant enough for special occasions, these tarts are a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to any menu. Their beautiful presentation and rich flavors make them a memorable choice every time you serve them.

Honey Walnut Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 4 tarts
• Category: Appetizer, Party Food
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French-Inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Create a stunning appetizer with these Honey Walnut Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts — flaky golden pastry topped with creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, fragrant thyme, and a sweet drizzle of honey, perfect for elegant gatherings or holiday parties! Keyword: honey walnut goat cheese puff pastry tarts

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Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

• 2 tablespoons honey (plus extra for drizzling)

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 4 equal circles using a bowl or cutter.

• Place the pastry circles onto the prepared baking sheet.

• Lightly score a smaller circle inside each pastry round without cutting all the way through to create a border.

• Brush the edges with the beaten egg.

• Spread the goat cheese within the scored circle, sprinkle with chopped walnuts, and drizzle each tart with honey.

• Top with fresh thyme leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper.

• Bake for 15–18 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed.

• Drizzle with extra honey before serving and garnish with more fresh thyme if desired.

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Notes

• For a richer flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before using.

• Substitute goat cheese with brie or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Serve warm or at room temperature — they’re delicious either way!