Imagine a culinary creation that transforms ordinary appetizers into an extraordinary sensory experience. This Warm Goat Cheese and Pepper Jelly Spread is not just a recipe—it's a gourmet journey that combines creamy, tangy goat cheese with the sweet and spicy kick of pepper jelly. Perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a luxurious snack, this dish promises to elevate your appetizer game from mundane to magnificent in just 15 minutes.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz goat cheese
- 1/4 cup pepper jelly
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 baguette, sliced
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Remove goat cheese from refrigerator 30 minutes before preparation to soften at room temperature.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces, creating diagonal rounds for serving.
- Place softened goat cheese in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese surface.
- Bake goat cheese for 8-10 minutes until edges are slightly golden and cheese becomes warm and slightly melted.
- Remove cheese from oven and immediately spread pepper jelly evenly across the top of the warm cheese.
- Arrange baguette slices around the cheese on a serving platter.
- Garnish the spread with fresh chopped herbs like thyme, basil, or chives for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately while cheese is warm, allowing guests to spread the goat cheese and pepper jelly mixture onto baguette slices.
- For best experience, enjoy within 10-15 minutes of preparation to maintain optimal temperature and texture.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Allow goat cheese to soften at room temperature for even heating and smooth spreading.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Select a high-quality, artisanal pepper jelly and fresh goat cheese for the best flavor profile.
- Herb Selection Matters: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or chives to complement the cheese and jelly.
- Baguette Prep: Slice the baguette diagonally for elegant, uniform pieces that are easy to dip and serve.
- Timing is Crucial: Serve immediately after preparation to enjoy the warm, melted cheese and vibrant jelly at their peak flavor and texture.
- Oven Positioning: Place the cheese in the center of the baking sheet to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
- Optional Variations: Try different types of pepper jelly (jalapeño, habanero) for varying levels of heat and complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 340kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 30mg
