Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

These Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are elegant, savory bites featuring sweet fig jam and tangy goat cheese wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for appetizers, brunch, or a classy snack that looks impressive with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & tangy contrast – luscious figs meet creamy goat cheese

• Effortless elegance – just spread, roll, slice, and bake

• Great for entertaining – ideal finger food with gourmet flair

• Make‑ahead friendly – prep now, bake later

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sheet puff pastry (about 9″ × 9″), thawed

• ⅓ cup fig jam (choose chunky or smooth)

• 4 oz goat cheese, softened

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

• Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pistachios for crunch

• 1 egg, beaten with 1 teaspoon water (for egg wash)

directions

1. Preheat
   Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Spread jam
   Unfold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll to smooth. Spread fig jam evenly, leaving a ¼″ border.

3. Add goat cheese
   Crumble softened goat cheese over jam. Drizzle honey on top and sprinkle with thyme (and nuts if using).

4. Roll & slice
   Tightly roll pastry from one side to the other, forming a log. Brush seam lightly with egg wash to seal. Slice into 1″–1½″ pinwheels.

5. Bake
   Place cut-side up on the prepared sheet, spacing 1″–2″ apart. Brush pinwheels with egg wash. Bake 15–18 minutes or until puffed and golden.

6. Serve
   Cool 2 minutes, then transfer to a platter. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12–16 pinwheels (depending on slice thickness)

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Bake time: 15–18 minutes

• Total time: ~25–28 minutes

Variations

• Herb swap: Use rosemary or basil in place of thyme

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes on the cheese layer

• Cheese mix: Combine goat cheese with cream cheese or ricotta for a milder texture

• Gluten‑free: Use gluten‑free puff pastry

• Mini version: Cut pastry into smaller strips and bake just 10–12 minutes

storage/reheating

• Room temperature: Store cooled pinwheels on a plate covered loosely for up to 4 hours

• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days

• Freezer: Flash-freeze cooled pinwheels, then store in a sealed bag up to 1 month

• Reheat: Warm baked pinwheels in a 350 °F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until crispy and warmed through

FAQs

Can I use fresh figs instead of jam?

Yes—thinly slice fresh figs and layer them on top of the goat cheese before rolling.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes—as long as puff pastry doesn’t contain lard or animal fat.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Make and slice the log, then refrigerate (covered) up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely—try blue cheese, feta, or a soft triple-cream cheese for different flavor profiles.

Can I skip the nuts?

Yes—omit them or use seeds for crunch like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

How do I prevent soggy bottoms?

Make sure puff pastry is fully thawed and bake on a parchment-lined sheet in a fully preheated oven.

Can I make them vegan?

Use vegan puff pastry, plant-based soft cheese, and maple syrup in place of honey.

Are these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free puff pastry to adapt for gluten-free diets.

Can I add a savory twist?

Spread a very thin layer of pesto under the fig jam before adding the cheese for herbal complexity.

What are good dipping sauces?

Honey-balsamic glaze, fig compote, or even a savory jam like onion jam works nicely.

Conclusion

Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are a sophisticated yet simple appetizer combining sweet fig jam, tangy goat cheese, and crisp pastry. With easy assembly and elegant presentation, they’re an ideal addition to any gathering or a special everyday treat. Enjoy their graceful flavors and irresistible texture!