When it comes to appetizers that are both simple to prepare and impressively elegant, these Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels take center stage. Combining the sweet richness of fig preserves with the creamy tang of goat cheese, all wrapped in golden, flaky puff pastry, these pinwheels are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, celebrating a special event, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet snack, this recipe is versatile enough to fit the bill. The balance of flavors – sweet, tangy, and buttery – is what makes these pinwheels irresistible. Plus, they look as good as they taste, making them a hit at any gathering.
With minimal prep and baking time, this recipe is a stress-free way to add a touch of sophistication to your table. Pair these pinwheels with a glass of wine or a charcuterie board for a complete and satisfying appetizer spread.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: With store-bought puff pastry, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual brunches to formal gatherings, these pinwheels fit right in.
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need puff pastry, fig preserves, goat cheese, and a few extras.
- Customizable: Adjust the filling to suit your taste preferences, such as adding nuts or herbs.
- Visually Stunning: These pinwheels look gourmet but are surprisingly easy to make.
The combination of sweet figs and creamy goat cheese is a classic that never goes out of style. The addition of puff pastry adds a delightful crunch, elevating this appetizer to something truly special. You’ll love how these pinwheels not only taste amazing but also save you time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1/3 cup fig preserves
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
Equipment Used
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
Directions & Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry into a 12×10-inch rectangle.
- Spread the Filling:
- Evenly spread the fig preserves over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Crumble the goat cheese on top of the fig preserves. Sprinkle with rosemary for added flavor.
- Roll and Slice:
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Bake the Pinwheels:
- Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with honey for extra sweetness if desired.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 120 per pinwheel
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Savory Twist: Replace fig preserves with caramelized onions or pesto.
- Cheese Options: Swap goat cheese for cream cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh before serving for the best results.
Q: Can I freeze the pinwheels?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Use cold puff pastry to make rolling and slicing easier.
- A serrated knife works best for clean slices without squishing the roll.
- Don’t skip the egg wash—it gives the pinwheels a beautiful golden color.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, nuts, and fruits.
- Serve as an appetizer alongside a light salad or soup.
- Offer them warm with a glass of sparkling wine or a sweet dessert wine.
Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling Pin
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed
- 1/3 cup fig preserves
- 4 oz goat cheese softened
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp honey optional
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry into a 12x10-inch rectangle.
- Spread the Filling:
- Evenly spread the fig preserves over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Crumble the goat cheese on top of the fig preserves. Sprinkle with rosemary for added flavor.
- Roll and Slice:
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the puff pastry into a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Bake the Pinwheels:
- Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with honey for extra sweetness if desired.
Notes
A serrated knife works best for clean slices without squishing the roll.