Description
Fig & Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are elegant, flaky appetizers that combine the earthy sweetness of fig preserves with the creamy tang of goat cheese, wrapped in buttery puff pastry. Perfect for holiday parties, brunches, or sophisticated gatherings, these bite-sized pinwheels offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, enhanced by fresh thyme and a touch of brown sugar.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Prep Your Puff Pastry: Let the puff pastry thaw completely if refrigerated or frozen. Once thawed, place it on a sheet of parchment paper on a clean, flat surface, ready for assembly.
- Spread the Fig Preserves: Using a spatula or knife, evenly layer the fig preserves over the surface of the puff pastry, leaving about a ½ inch border all around to allow for proper sealing.
- Add the Cheese and Seasonings: Crumble the goat cheese evenly over the fig preserves layer. Sprinkle the light brown sugar and strip the leaves off thyme sprigs, then scatter the fresh thyme evenly for aroma and flavor. Optionally, sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans over the filling if desired.
- Roll and Chill: Carefully roll the puff pastry sheet tightly into a log shape, starting from one edge and rolling to the other. Wrap the log in parchment paper and place it in the freezer for 20 minutes. This chilling step softens the dough for easier cutting while preserving shape.
- Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled pastry log into ½-inch thick rounds. Place the rounds evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush each slice with egg wash to create a golden, glossy finish during baking. Bake the pinwheels for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry turns puffed and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is thoroughly thawed for easier handling and even baking.
- Freezing the rolled log before slicing helps maintain neat, uniform pinwheels.
- For a nutty crunch, add crushed walnuts or pecans, but this is optional.
- Serve these pinwheels warm or at room temperature as an elegant appetizer.
- Use fresh thyme for best flavor, but dried thyme can be substituted in smaller amounts if needed.