Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

If there’s one appetizer guaranteed to disappear as quickly as you can make it, it’s Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels. These golden, flaky rounds blend sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite—a combination that feels both decadent and delightfully easy. With just a handful of ingredients and under 35 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing platter that’s as fitting for holiday parties as it is for cozy nights with friends.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels is in their simplicity: each ingredient sings, and together they create something magical. If you’re gathering your shopping list, don’t overlook how each element adds a distinct layer of taste, texture, or eye-catching color!

• Puff Pastry: The flaky, buttery base that makes these pinwheels irresistibly crisp; be sure it’s fully thawed for easy rolling.
• Fig Jam or Preserves: Brings luxurious sweetness and a hint of earthiness to balance the tangy cheese.
• Goat Cheese (softened): Offers creamy, tangy richness and melts beautifully into each swirl.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves (optional): A sprinkle of herbs adds a subtle freshness and an elegant finish.
• Egg (for egg wash): Brushed on top for that classic bakery-style golden glow.
• Honey: Just a drizzle after baking adds luscious shine and a mellow sweetness.
• Pinch of Salt: Enhances every flavor and rounds out the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Station

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple setup ensures your Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels bake up evenly and come off the tray with zero sticking or fuss.

Step 2: Roll Out and Layer

On a lightly floured surface, gently unroll your puff pastry sheet. Smooth out any seams, and then spread the fig jam evenly—leave a ½-inch border around the edges. Next, crumble the goat cheese loosely across the jam, so every bite is full of tangy, creamy goodness. Sprinkle on fresh thyme and just a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Step 3: Roll and Slice the Pinwheels

Starting from the long side, tightly roll the pastry into a log; think of it as making a sweet-savory jelly roll! Use a sharp knife to slice the log into ½-inch rounds. Place each slice on your prepared baking sheet with the pretty swirl side facing up.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash

Whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water, and brush the tops of each pinwheel. This step guarantees a glossy, perfectly golden crust once baked—a small effort, but such a lovely payoff.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Pop your tray into the oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and deeply golden. Once out of the oven, while they’re still warm, give them a light honey drizzle for an extra touch of magic. Serve these beauties warm or let them cool to room temperature—they’re fabulous either way!

How to Serve Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Garnishes

For a touch of color and flavor, garnish your Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels with an extra sprinkle of fresh thyme, a light grind of black pepper, or a few crushed walnuts. Even a tiny dusting of flaky sea salt right before serving is lovely.

Side Dishes

These pinwheels are delicious alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon, a medley of fresh fruit, or an elegant cheese board with nuts and olives. They also pair well with a light, sparkling wine or a festive holiday punch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to really impress, try arranging your pinwheels in a wreath shape on a serving platter, tucking in sprigs of fresh herbs for a festive look. Alternatively, nestle them in parchment-lined baskets or offer individual skewers for an easy, portable snack at parties!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with a few extra Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, and are just as lovely chilled as they are warm!

Freezing

Want to plan ahead? Assemble and slice your pinwheels, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready, bake straight from the freezer—just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time for easy, last-minute entertaining.

Reheating

To revive the crispiness, pop leftover pinwheels back in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps restore their signature flaky texture, making them nearly as good as fresh from the oven!

FAQs

Can I use a different type Appetizer

Absolutely! While the tanginess of goat cheese is a classic pairing with sweet figs, cream cheese or brie also work beautifully if you prefer a milder or creamier flavor profile.

Do fig preserves and fig jam taste the same in this recipe?

They’re very similar—you can use either one for Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels. Jam is usually smoother, while preserves may have larger pieces of fruit for a bit more texture, making both equally delicious in this dish.

How thin should I slice the pinwheels before baking?

Cutting them into ½-inch thick rounds strikes the perfect balance: they’ll bake up crisp and golden on the outside, while still being tender and full of flavor on the inside.

Can these be served cold or only warm?

Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are wonderful both ways! Warm from the oven is classic, but they retain their texture and flavor beautifully at room temperature, making them ideal for parties or picnics.

What’s a simple way to make them more savory?

For added depth, sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or a few strips of prosciutto inside before rolling up the pastry. The extra crunch or salty bite makes for a truly memorable twist.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the moment your guests bite into these golden, fragrant Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels—their smiles will say it all! Whether you’re a seasoned entertainer or a kitchen newbie, give this recipe a try and let yourself be wowed by just how easy and crowd-pleasing these little swirls can be.

Print