Description
This Fig, Goat Cheese & Pistachio Wreath is an elegant and flavorful appetizer perfect for any festive occasion. Delicate puff pastry is filled with creamy goat cheese, sweet chopped dried figs, and crunchy pistachios, then baked to golden perfection. Finished with a honey drizzle and fresh rosemary garnish, this stunning wreath combines sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Puff Pastry Base
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, if frozen)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Water (1 tablespoon, for egg wash)
Goat Cheese Filling
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings & Garnish
- 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the wreath bakes evenly and doesn’t stick.
- Prepare the Goat Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese with the heavy cream or crème fraîche. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a rolling pin to gently roll out the pastry, smoothing creases and enlarging it slightly to fit the wreath shape.
- Assemble the Wreath: Spread the goat cheese mixture evenly in the center of the puff pastry, leaving about a 2-inch border around the edges to fold later. Sprinkle the chopped dried figs and pistachios evenly over the goat cheese layer.
- Form the Wreath: Cut 1-2 inch wide slits around the border of the pastry to create strips. Carefully fold each strip over the filling, overlapping slightly to form a circular wreath shape. Tuck the ends beneath the wreath to secure it.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush this egg wash over all exposed pastry surfaces to achieve a shiny, golden crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the wreath in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden, puffed, and cooked through.
- Serve: Allow the wreath to cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with honey if desired for a touch of sweetness and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a festive presentation. Serve warm and enjoy your savory and sweet appetizer!
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is thawed completely before rolling to avoid cracking.
- Use crème fraîche instead of heavy cream for a tangier filling variation.
- Honey drizzle is optional but adds a lovely sweetness that complements the figs and goat cheese.
- Fresh rosemary provides a fragrant and festive garnish but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated in the oven for best texture.
