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Goat Cheese Appetizer with Fig Jam and Pecans

Goat Cheese Appetizer with fig jam and pecans features a warm, lightly candied pecan topping and a jam cascade over a chilled goat cheese log. Finish with honey, rosemary, and flaky sea salt for a glossy, crowd-ready bite with crackers and pears.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Goat cheese and topping
  • 8 oz goat cheese log Use a log format so it’s easy to spoon jam over and serve in slices.
  • 0.33 cup fig jam
  • 0.33 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 0.25 flaky sea salt Use a pinch, to finish.
  • 1 Crackers For serving.
  • 1 sliced pears For serving.

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan
  • 1 cast iron skillet

Method
 

Make candied pecans
  1. Melt butter in a small cast iron skillet over medium heat, then add pecans and brown sugar. Stir until the coating looks glossy, about 1 minute.
  2. Continue to toast over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until pecans are fragrant and lightly candied. Transfer to a sheet pan to cool.
Assemble the appetizer
  1. Place the goat cheese log on a serving board. Keep the log intact so the jam runs down the sides.
  2. Spoon fig jam over the top, letting it run down the sides. Add enough to create a thick, glossy layer.
  3. Scatter candied pecans and chopped rosemary over the jam. Press lightly so toppings adhere.
  4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve immediately with crackers and sliced pears.

Notes

Pro tip: cool the candied pecans on a sheet pan so they don’t soften, then assemble right before serving for the best contrast between jam, honey, and crunch. Store assembled goat cheese covered in the fridge up to 2 days; keep toppings separate for less sogginess. Freezing isn’t recommended for the cheese texture. For a dairy-light option, use a plant-based cream cheese log (similar shape) and choose dairy-free honey if needed.