Pistachio-Crusted Goat Cheese Bites with Fig Honey Glaze Recipe
These Pistachio-Crusted Goat Cheese Bites with Fig Honey Glaze are a perfect blend of creamy goat cheese, crunchy pistachios, and a sweet, tangy glaze. Ideal for elegant appetizers, these bite-sized treats offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors, complemented by toasted baguette slices or crackers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Balls
- 200g goat cheese (soft, log-style)
- ¼ cup crushed pistachios
- 1 tbsp chopped chives or parsley (optional)
- Fresh thyme (for garnish)
For Serving
- Baguette, sliced and toasted
- Crackers or crostini
Fig-Honey Glaze
- 3 tbsp fig preserves
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
Instructions
- Prepare Goat Cheese Balls: In a bowl, mash the goat cheese until it is smooth and pliable, making it easier to shape.
- Shape Cheese Balls: Using damp hands, roll the goat cheese mixture into 10 to 12 small, even balls for consistent serving sizes.
- Coat with Pistachios and Herbs: Mix the crushed pistachios with chopped chives or parsley (if using), then roll each goat cheese ball in the mixture until completely coated.
- Chill to Firm Up: Place the coated cheese bites in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes to firm up and help them hold their shape.
- Toast Bread: While the cheese bites chill, toast the baguette slices in the oven until they turn a golden brown and crisp.
- Make Fig-Honey Glaze: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the fig preserves, honey, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Stir continuously until the glaze is smooth and slightly runny, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the warm fig honey glaze over each chilled goat cheese bite. Garnish each with a tiny sprig of fresh thyme for added aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately alongside toasted baguette slices or crackers.
Notes
- Use damp hands to shape the goat cheese balls to prevent sticking.
- Chilling the cheese balls helps them firm and hold their shape better during serving.
- The balsamic vinegar in the glaze is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- These bites are best served fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance and kept chilled until serving.
- For a vegan version, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based soft cheese alternative.
Keywords: goat cheese bites, pistachio crusted appetizers, fig honey glaze, party appetizers, Mediterranean appetizers
