The Best Goat Cheese Appetizer Recipe

Introduction

This goat cheese appetizer combines flaky puff pastry with savory charcuterie or sweet apple slices for a delightful bite. It’s easy to assemble and perfect for entertaining or a special snack.

Ingredients

• 4 oz goat cheese, garlic & herb
• 2 frozen puff pastry sheets
• 18 slices of charcuterie meat (salami, prosciutto, or soppressata)
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1 egg, for egg wash
• Honey
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: Thaw the puff pastry sheets and cut each sheet into 9 even rectangles by slicing into 3 rectangles along the fold lines, then cutting each into thirds.
3. Step 3: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Step 4: Assemble the tarts on the lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of honey directly onto the parchment paper or foil. For savory tarts, layer one slice of charcuterie meat and sprinkle with black pepper. For sweet tarts, layer 3–4 thin apple slices.
5. Step 5: Spread about 1 tablespoon of goat cheese on each puff pastry rectangle. Carefully place the pastry rectangles on top of the layered ingredients.
6. Step 6: Gently press down the edges of each tart with a fork to seal and crimp them. Poke a few holes in the top of each pastry, then brush with a thin layer of egg wash.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden and puffed.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Then gently flip each tart over using a spatula.
9. Step 9: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious goat cheese tarts!

Tips & Variations

• Use different herbs mixed into the goat cheese or add a sprinkle of fresh thyme for extra flavor.
• Swap apples for pears or figs to create different sweet variations.
• Try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze on the savory tarts after baking for a touch of acidity.
• If you prefer smaller bites, cut pastries into smaller rectangles before assembling.

Storage

Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or toaster oven to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these tarts ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the tarts and refrigerate them unbaked for a few hours before baking. Just add the egg wash right before placing them in the oven.

Can I use fresh puff pastry instead of frozen?

Absolutely. Fresh puff pastry will work well; just make sure it is cold and well-chilled before cutting and assembling to ensure the best puff.

The Best Goat Cheese Appetizer Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 78 reviews

These delicious goat cheese puff pastry tarts make the perfect appetizer, combining creamy garlic and herb goat cheese with savory charcuterie or sweet apple slices. Easy to assemble and baked to golden perfection, they are sure to impress at any gathering or party.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 18 tarts 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry and Cheese

• 4 oz goat cheese, garlic & herb
• 2 frozen puff pastry sheets
• 1 egg, for egg wash

Meat and Fruit

• 18 slices of charcuterie meat (salami, prosciutto, or soppressata)
• 1 apple, thinly sliced

Additional

• Honey, about 18 tsp (1 tsp per tart layer)
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the puff pastry tarts.
2. Cut Puff Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry sheets and cut each one into 9 even rectangles by first cutting the large sheet into 3 rectangles along the fold lines, then cutting those into thirds, yielding 18 rectangles in total.
3. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
4. Assemble Tarts Base: Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of honey directly on the parchment paper or foil for each tart. For savory tarts, layer one slice of charcuterie meat and sprinkle with black pepper. For sweet tarts, layer 3–4 thin slices of apple.
5. Add Goat Cheese and Puff Pastry: Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of garlic and herb goat cheese onto each puff pastry rectangle. Carefully place each rectangle on top of the layered honey, meat or apple slices, sandwiching the ingredients.
6. Seal the Tarts: Gently press down on the edges of each tart with a fork to seal and crimp them securely. Poke a few holes on top of each pastry to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg wash for a golden finish.
7. Bake: Bake the assembled tarts in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
8. Cool and Flip: Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Once slightly cooled, gently flip each tart over with a spatula to reveal the bottom side.
9. Serve: Arrange the tarts on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy their delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Notes

• Ensure puff pastry is fully thawed before cutting for easier handling and cleaner edges.
• Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for even cuts of the pastry sheets.
• Adjust the amount of goat cheese and toppings to your preference.
• These tarts are best served fresh but can be reheated gently in the oven.
• You can customize toppings with your favorite herbs or other fruits and meats.

Keywords: goat cheese appetizer, puff pastry tarts, charcuterie bites, easy party appetizers, savory and sweet tarts