Description
This Fig Goat Cheese Pistachio Wreath is a stunning and flavorful appetizer featuring a flaky puff pastry crust filled with creamy goat cheese, sweet fig jam, crunchy pistachios, and fragrant rosemary. Perfect for holidays or brunch, it combines Mediterranean-inspired ingredients into an elegant, savory pastry that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry and Cheese Filling
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 6 oz goat cheese (softened)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened)
Fillings and Toppings
- 3–4 tbsp fig jam or fig preserves
- 1/3 cup shelled pistachios (chopped)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Honey for drizzling (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs or arugula for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and well blended, ensuring a creamy filling for the wreath.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet into a rectangle approximately 10 by 14 inches in size for easy spreading of the fillings.
- Spread Cheese Mixture: Evenly spread the goat cheese mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border along all edges to allow for sealing later.
- Add Fig Jam, Pistachios, and Rosemary: Dollop spoonfuls of fig jam across the cheese-covered pastry. Then sprinkle evenly with chopped pistachios and fresh chopped rosemary to distribute flavors and texture.
- Form the Log: Starting from the long edge, gently roll the puff pastry sheet into a tight log. Pinch the seam along the edge to seal the dough completely, preventing filling from leaking during baking.
- Shape into a Wreath: Transfer the log onto the prepared baking sheet and carefully bend it into a circle or wreath shape. Press and seal the ends together firmly to maintain the shape while baking.
- Cut and Twist Sections: Using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife, make cuts about 1 inch apart around the wreath, slicing about two-thirds through the dough. Gently twist each cut section slightly outward to expose the filling beautifully.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the entire wreath with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake the Wreath: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Once baked, allow the wreath to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Optionally, drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or arugula for an attractive presentation.
- Serve: Serve the wreath warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer perfect for gatherings and festive occasions.
Notes
- This recipe makes a beautiful and elegant appetizer ideal for holidays or brunch gatherings.
- Fig jam can be substituted with apricot or pear preserves depending on availability or personal preference.
- For added visual appeal and flavor, consider garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs or peppery arugula leaves.
- Ensure puff pastry is properly thawed before rolling for best results and easy handling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
