I created this Honey Apricot and Almond Goat Cheese Spread as a sweet-savory, creamy delight that’s perfect on crackers, bread, or as a dip. The tangy goat cheese blends with honey, apricot, and crunchy almonds for a flavor-packed spread I love easy to assemble yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love the contrasting flavors and textures in this spread—the creamy, tangy goat cheese softened by sweet apricot and honey, then brightened with crunchy almonds. It’s fast to make, visually appealing, and versatile—makes any snack or appetizer feel fancy even when I’m just relaxing at home.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Goat cheese (soft, room temperature)
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Apricot jam or preserves (smooth or with bits)
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Honey (for mixing and a little drizzle)
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Sliced or slivered almonds (toasted)
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Optional: fresh apricot slices or zest for garnish
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Optional: fresh herbs (e.g. chopped mint or thyme)
Directions
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I let the goat cheese soften at room temperature so it becomes easier to stir.
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I stir together goat cheese, a generous swirl of apricot jam, and honey until smooth and well combined—adjusting amounts to taste.
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I toast almonds in a dry skillet until golden and fragrant; then I let them cool.
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I fold most of the almonds into the cheese mixture, reserving some for garnish.
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I spoon the spread into a serving dish, drizzle a bit more honey on top, and sprinkle with remaining almonds and fresh apricot slices or herbs if using.
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I chill briefly if I want the mix firmer before serving, but I often serve it at room temperature for easier spreading.
Servings And Timing
This recipe yields about 1 to 1¼ cups of spread—enough for 6 to 8 as a condiment.
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Chilling time (optional): 15–30 minutes
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Total time: around 15–20 minutes
Variations
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I use chopped pistachios or walnuts instead of almonds for a different crunch.
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I stir in lemon zest or a drop of balsamic vinegar to sharpen the flavor.
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I fold in chopped dried apricots for extra fruit texture.
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I make a sweeter version using fig or peach preserves in place of apricot.
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I mix in a pinch of chili flakes or black pepper for a subtle kick against the sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
I store this spread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I let it come to room temperature before serving—just give it a gentle stir if it firms up.
FAQs
What Kind of Goat Cheese Is Best?
I prefer soft, spreadable goat cheese—plain or mild chèvre works best because it mixes smoothly with jam and honey.
Can I Use Fresh Fruit Instead of Jam?
Yes—finely dice fresh apricot and stir it in, though fresh fruit may add moisture and reduce shelf life slightly.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely—I often prepare it the night before, cover it in the fridge, and bring it to room temperature before serving to soften.
How Sweet Should It Be?
I start with moderate honey and preserve, mix and taste, then add more if I want a sweeter spread. It balances best when honey complements but doesn’t overpower.
Is It Okay To Freeze This Spread?
I don’t recommend freezing—freezing can change the texture of goat cheese and make it grainy. I keep it refrigerated and use within several days.
Conclusion
I love serving this Honey Apricot and Almond Goat Cheese Spread when I want something simple yet indulgent for entertaining or an everyday treat. It’s creamy with just the right sweetness and crunch—a delicious combo that transforms plain bread or crackers into something memorable.
Print
Honey Apricot and Almond Goat Cheese Spread
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 to 1¼ cups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Honey Apricot and Almond Goat Cheese Spread blends tangy goat cheese with sweet apricot preserves, honey, and toasted almonds for a creamy, elegant dip or spread—perfect for crackers, crostini, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
8 oz soft goat cheese, room temperature
2–3 tbsp apricot jam or preserves
1–2 tbsp honey (plus more for drizzling)
1/4 cup sliced or slivered almonds, toasted
Optional: fresh apricot slices or zest for garnish
Optional: chopped fresh mint or thyme
Instructions
- Let goat cheese soften at room temperature for easy mixing.
- In a bowl, stir together goat cheese, apricot jam, and honey until smooth and well combined.
- Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Cool slightly.
- Fold most almonds into the cheese mixture, reserving some for garnish.
- Spoon spread into a serving dish. Drizzle with extra honey and top with remaining almonds and optional garnish.
- Serve immediately or chill briefly for a firmer consistency.
Notes
Swap almonds with pistachios or walnuts for variety.
Add lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar for brightness.
Use dried apricots or other preserves like fig or peach for variation.
Mix in chili flakes or black pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
Let sit at room temperature before serving if chilled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
