If you’re searching for a bite-sized appetizer that feels luxurious yet is super easy to whip up, this Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine buttery puff pastry wrapped around the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, the sweet surprise of fig jam, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts—all baked until golden and irresistible. These pinwheels are perfect for parties, a cozy night in, or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe, it’ll become your go-to for elegant snacking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe lies in its simple, harmonious ingredients. Each one brings something special to the party, whether that’s tang, sweetness, texture, or that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth base.
- 1 sheet puff pastry: The flaky, buttery foundation that makes these pinwheels delightfully crisp and light.
- 4 ounces goat cheese: Adds a creamy tang that balances the sweetness of the fig jam perfectly.
- 1/4 cup fig jam: Provides a luscious, fruity sweetness that’s absolutely essential for that signature flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts: Brings a crunchy texture and a nutty contrast to each bite.
- 1 egg, beaten: Used for brushing to give the pinwheels that gorgeous golden, glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional): A final touch of extra sweetness that drizzles beautifully over the warm pinwheels.
How to Make Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the oven is nice and hot so your pinwheels bake quickly and get that perfect golden crisp. Lightly flour your surface before you roll out the puff pastry to prevent sticking and make handling easier.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Gently roll out your sheet of puff pastry on the floured surface, giving it a smooth, even thickness. This will help your pinwheels hold their shape and have consistent layers of flaky goodness throughout.
Step 3: Spread the Fig Jam
Using the back of a spoon or a small spatula, spread the fig jam evenly across the entire sheet of puff pastry. This layer is the sweet hero of the dish, so make sure it covers every inch without being too thick, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly in each bite.
Step 4: Add the Goat Cheese
Next, crumble the goat cheese all over the fig jam. The creamy, slightly tangy cheese contrasts beautifully with the jam and ensures every bite has rich flavor.
Step 5: Sprinkle Chopped Walnuts
Scatter the chopped walnuts evenly on top of the goat cheese. These little nutty bits give your pinwheels a wonderful crunch and add a layer of texture that keeps things interesting.
Step 6: Roll and Slice the Pastry
Starting from one edge, carefully roll your puff pastry into a tight log. Be gentle to keep the filling inside. Once rolled, slice the log into 1/2 inch thick pinwheels. This is where the magic really starts to show, as each swirl holds a perfect balance of every ingredient.
Step 7: Brush and Bake
Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced slightly apart. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve that stunning golden shine. Pop them into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they’re puffed up and beautifully browned.
Step 8: Drizzle with Honey and Serve
Once out of the oven, if you want to add a touch of extra sweetness, drizzle the warm pinwheels lightly with honey. Serve immediately to enjoy that flaky texture at its best!
How to Serve Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary make a lovely garnish that brightens the flavors and adds an herbal aroma. You can also sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts on top to enhance the presentation and crunch.
Side Dishes
Pair your pinwheels with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lemon makes for a refreshing accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe treats on a rustic wooden board with a few fresh figs or grapes scattered around. They also make charming finger food when stacked in a pyramid or layered in decorative bowls during parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, making for a tasty snack or quick appetizer the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked pinwheels on a parchment-lined tray and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, keeping them for up to 1 month. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to revive that crisp flakiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use cream cheese instead of goat cheese?
Yes! Cream cheese is a good substitute, offering a milder, creamier flavor. However, it won’t have the same tangy punch that makes this Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe so special.
Are these pinwheels suitable for vegans?
Since this recipe uses goat cheese, egg wash, and honey, it’s not vegan-friendly as is. For a vegan version, consider using plant-based cheese, a flaxseed or aquafaba egg wash, and maple syrup instead of honey.
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pinwheels and keep them wrapped in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it super easy to prepare in advance for a party or gathering.
What kind of puff pastry works best?
Frozen puff pastry sheets found in most grocery stores work perfectly and are incredibly convenient. Just thaw completely before rolling and assembling.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Rolling the pastry tightly and cutting with a sharp knife helps keep the pinwheels intact. Also, avoid overloading with jam or cheese so nothing spills during baking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about how quickly simple ingredients can come together to create such a stunning and delicious treat. This Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe is a wonderful way to add a touch of elegance to any snack or appetizer spread. Give it a try and watch how these little pinwheels disappear fast—they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, just like they are in mine!
Print
Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are deliciously flaky and flavorful appetizers made with puff pastry, creamy goat cheese, sweet fig jam, and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for parties or a tasty snack, they bake up golden and can be drizzled with honey for extra sweetness.
Ingredients
Pinwheels
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 1/4 cup fig jam
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the pinwheels.
- Roll out puff pastry: On a floured surface, gently roll out the sheet of puff pastry to smooth any creases and slightly enlarge it for easier spreading.
- Spread fig jam: Evenly spread the 1/4 cup of fig jam over the surface of the pastry, ensuring a uniform layer.
- Add goat cheese: Crumble the 4 ounces of goat cheese evenly over the fig jam layer to distribute flavor in every bite.
- Sprinkle walnuts: Scatter the 1/4 cup chopped walnuts on top of the goat cheese to add crunch and nuttiness.
- Roll the pastry: Starting from one edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log, keeping the filling inside.
- Slice into pinwheels: Cut the rolled pastry into 1/2 inch thick slices using a sharp knife.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the slices cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Brush with egg wash: Lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg to help them brown beautifully during baking.
- Bake until golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels turn golden brown and puffed up.
- Add honey drizzle: Once baked and slightly cooled, optionally drizzle with 1 tablespoon honey for added sweetness before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if preferred.
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan cream cheese instead of goat cheese.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
- These pinwheels can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
