The Best Goat Cheese Appetizer Recipe
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
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
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the puff pastry tarts.
- 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.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Bake: Bake the assembled tarts in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- 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.
- 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