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Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Featured in Simple Sides to Complete Any Meal.

These Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are a perfect mix of creamy and savory flavors, wrapped in golden puff pastry. Spread goat cheese and fig jam over puff pastry, sprinkle thyme and optional nuts, then roll, slice, and bake to perfection. Ideal for holiday gatherings, brunches, or elegant appetizers, this versatile dish offers customizable options like honey for sweetness or walnuts for crunch. Serve warm or at room temperature with garnishes like fresh thyme and honey drizzle.

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Updated on Mon, 12 May 2025 11:25:41 GMT
Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe Pin it
Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe | mellierecipes.com

These fig and goat cheese pinwheels transform simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer that never fails to impress guests at my gatherings. The combination of creamy goat cheese with sweet fig jam wrapped in golden puff pastry creates perfect bites of balanced flavor that disappear from platters within minutes.

I first made these pinwheels for a last minute holiday party when I needed something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. They were such a hit that they've become my signature appetizer whenever friends come over.

Ingredients

  • Puff pastry sheet: Frozen works perfectly, just allow proper thawing time
  • Goat cheese: The creaminess balances the sweet figs beautifully, use room temperature for easy spreading
  • Fig jam or preserves: Provides concentrated sweetness without making the pastry soggy
  • Fresh thyme leaves: Adds an earthy aromatic note that elevates the flavor profile
  • Honey: Optional, but adds a glossy finish and enhances the natural sweetness
  • Walnuts or pecans: Optional, for textural contrast and nutty depth
  • Egg: For brushing, creates that irresistible golden brown finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Thaw your puff pastry until pliable but still cool to the touch. This typically takes about 30 minutes at room temperature or several hours in the refrigerator. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to approximately 10×12 inches. The goal is to smooth out any creases while maintaining the cold temperature of the dough for optimal flakiness.
Add the Filling:
Spread the room temperature goat cheese in an even layer across the pastry leaving a half inch border. The border ensures the filling stays contained when rolled. Next, layer the fig jam on top of the goat cheese distributing it evenly. Add optional honey drizzle and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic touch. The thyme cuts through the richness beautifully.
Roll and Cut:
Starting from one long edge roll the pastry tightly into a log shape. A tight roll prevents gaps in your pinwheels. Place the log seam side down and use a sharp knife to slice into approximately 20 pieces. If the log gets too soft during cutting refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up first.
Bake to Golden Perfection:
Arrange the pinwheels on a parchment lined baking sheet giving them space to expand. Brush each with beaten egg wash for that professional bakery shine. Bake at 375°F for 18 to 20 minutes watching carefully near the end. The perfect pinwheel has golden brown edges with a slightly puffed appearance.
Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe Pin it
Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe | mellierecipes.com

The first time I served these at my annual holiday gathering my mother in law actually asked for the recipe which has never happened before. The way the goat cheese gets slightly warm and creamy against the sweet jammy figs creates a flavor combination that even picky eaters can't resist.

Make Ahead Instructions

These pinwheels are perfect for planning ahead. You can prepare the entire roll up to 24 hours in advance and keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Simply slice and bake when ready to serve. For longer storage prepare the roll wrap in plastic wrap then aluminum foil and freeze for up to one month. When ready to use thaw in refrigerator overnight slice and bake.

Flavor Variations

While the classic combination of fig and goat cheese is hard to beat experimenting with flavors can create exciting variations. Try substituting the fig jam with apricot preserves or cherry jam for different fruit notes. Replace thyme with rosemary for a more robust herbal flavor or sage for a holiday twist. Blue cheese can replace goat cheese for those who prefer stronger flavors. Adding a sprinkle of orange zest to the filling creates a bright citrusy complement to the sweet figs.

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels truly shine on a holiday appetizer table but are versatile enough for many occasions. Serve alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light lunch. They make an elegant addition to a weekend brunch spread or pair beautifully with sparkling wine for a celebration. For a more substantial appetizer board include with cured meats fresh fruits and honey drizzled nuts. The pinwheels also make an impressive addition to a cheese board featuring complementary flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese, blue cheese, or brie for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate the unbaked pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of puff pastry?

If puff pastry is unavailable, you can use crescent roll dough or pie crust as an alternative base, though textures will vary.

→ Are there any nut-free options?

Yes, you can skip the nuts completely or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch without allergens.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Fig Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Delightful pinwheels with goat cheese, fig jam, and thyme in flaky pastry.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes

Category: Easy Side Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 20 pinwheels

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ For the Pinwheels

01 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed if frozen
02 120g soft goat cheese, at room temperature
03 ½ cup fig jam or fig preserves, or 8–10 fresh or dried figs, thinly sliced
04 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
05 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
06 ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch)
07 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

→ Optional Garnishes

08 Extra fresh thyme leaves
09 Drizzle of honey
10 Freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 01

Thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator for several hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes until pliable but still cool. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to remove creases and thin it slightly. Aim for a rectangle approximately 10×12 inches.

Step 02

Using a spatula, spread an even layer of goat cheese over the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Spread the fig jam evenly over the goat cheese layer. If using fresh or dried figs, arrange them in a single layer over the goat cheese. Drizzle honey over the fig layer (optional) and sprinkle thyme leaves. Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch if desired.

Step 03

Roll the puff pastry tightly from one long side to the other, forming a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into approximately 20 evenly sized pinwheels.

Step 04

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet and brush each with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and flaky.

Step 05

Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavor.

Notes

  1. These pinwheels can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for a variety of events.
  2. Ideal for holiday gatherings, brunches, or as an elegant addition to a charcuterie board.
  3. You can easily adjust the flavor by experimenting with different herbs, nuts, or additional sweeteners like maple syrup for a more intense sweetness.

Tools You'll Need

  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Pastry brush

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains nuts (optional depending on ingredient variation)
  • Contains dairy (goat cheese)
  • Contains eggs (egg wash)
  • Contains gluten (puff pastry)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 90
  • Total Fat: 6 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
  • Protein: 2 g