These Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are a fantastic, savory-sweet appetizer that will elevate any gathering. With creamy goat cheese, sweet fig preserves, aromatic thyme, and a light sprinkle of brown sugar, these flaky pastries are deliciously balanced and easy to make. Perfect for holiday celebrations, dinner parties, or just a cozy night in, these pinwheels are a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Harmony: The combination of sweet figs, tangy goat cheese, and fresh thyme creates a delightful balance of flavors.
- Elegant and Easy: Made with puff pastry, these pinwheels are quick to assemble but look impressive.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, these bite-sized pastries are easy to serve and share.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, herbs, or even add a touch of honey or balsamic drizzle for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed, about 13.2 oz; Jus-Rol brand recommended)
- ½ cup fig preserves
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme (leaves removed from stems)
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the thawed puff pastry on a sheet of parchment paper. Spread the fig preserves over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
Add Toppings
- Evenly crumble the goat cheese over the fig preserves.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar and fresh thyme leaves across the surface, ensuring even distribution.
Roll and Chill
- Carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, making sure to keep the filling inside as you go.
- Wrap the rolled pastry in parchment paper and place it in the freezer for 20 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to slice cleanly.
Slice the Pinwheels
- Once chilled, use a sharp knife to slice the roll into ½-inch pinwheels. Wipe the knife after each cut for cleaner slices.
- Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Egg Wash and Bake
- In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Lightly brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and flaky.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with additional thyme leaves and a light sprinkle of brown sugar, if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Sharp knife for slicing
- Small bowl for egg wash
- Pastry brush
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve the pinwheels warm from the oven for optimal flavor and flakiness.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
Variations
- Honey Drizzle: Add a drizzle of honey over the pinwheels right before serving for extra sweetness.
- Balsamic Reduction: For a sophisticated twist, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction over the pinwheels just before serving.
- Herb Swap: Substitute thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herbaceous note.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle a few chopped walnuts or pecans on the fig preserves for added crunch.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Freezing for Easy Slicing: Chilling the rolled pastry in the freezer for 20 minutes helps the roll hold its shape, making it much easier to slice.
- Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to avoid squishing the pinwheels when slicing, and clean it between cuts for neater slices.
- Egg Wash for Shine: The egg wash gives the pinwheels a beautiful golden color, making them extra appetizing.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes! Prepare the roll, wrap it in parchment paper, and store it in the freezer for up to 24 hours. Slice and bake just before serving.
2. Can I substitute the goat cheese?
Absolutely! Cream cheese or ricotta can be used for a milder flavor, or blue cheese for a stronger, savory twist.
3. How can I prevent the filling from spilling out?
Rolling the pastry tightly and chilling it before slicing will help keep the filling in place. A sharp knife also helps with clean slices.
4. Are there other jams or preserves I can use?
Yes, other fruit preserves such as apricot, blackberry, or pear work well with goat cheese. Each offers a unique flavor profile.
5. Can I make this without the egg wash?
Yes, the egg wash adds shine and helps with browning but is optional. The pinwheels will still bake beautifully without it.
These Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are a show-stopping appetizer that combines rich flavors and a gorgeous presentation. Quick, easy, and elegant, they’re a perfect choice for any occasion, bringing a balance of sweetness, tanginess, and herbaceous notes to your table.
Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry thawed, 13.2 oz
- 1/2 cup fig preserves
- 4 oz log goat cheese crumbled
- 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme leaves removed
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 large egg for egg wash
Instructions
- Prepare Puff Pastry:Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet and place it on a piece of parchment paper. Spread the fig preserves evenly over the pastry, leaving about a 1-inch border along the edges.
- Add Toppings:Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the fig preserves. Follow with a light, even layer of brown sugar and fresh thyme leaves.
- Roll and Chill:Carefully roll the pastry into a tight log, keeping the fillings intact. Wrap the rolled log in parchment paper and place it in the freezer for 20 minutes. This helps it firm up for easy slicing.
- Slice and Arrange:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once chilled, remove the roll and slice it into 1/2-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between each cut. Arrange the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Egg Wash and Bake:In a small bowl, beat the egg for the egg wash. Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash to ensure a golden finish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden and flaky.
- Serve and Garnish:Once baked, garnish with additional sprinkles of brown sugar and thyme, if desired. Enjoy the pinwheels warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Freezing for Easy Slicing: Chilling the rolled pastry in the freezer for 20 minutes helps the roll hold its shape, making it much easier to slice.
- Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to avoid squishing the pinwheels when slicing, and clean it between cuts for neater slices.
- Egg Wash for Shine: The egg wash gives the pinwheels a beautiful golden color, making them extra appetizing.