Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

These delightful fig and goat cheese pinwheels bring the perfect balance of sweet and savory to your appetizer spread. The combination of tangy goat cheese with sweet fig preserves wrapped in flaky puff pastry creates an elegant bite that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.

I first made these pinwheels for a holiday gathering when I needed something quick yet impressive. The empty platter and requests for the recipe confirmed they were a hit, and they've become my signature appetizer for dinner parties ever since.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry sheet thawed according to package directions provides the flaky buttery base. Look for all-butter varieties for the best flavor.
• Fig preserves or jam creates the sweet foundation. Choose preserves with visible fruit pieces for texture and authentic fig flavor.
• Goat cheese crumbled fresh adds tanginess and creaminess that balances the sweetness. Room temperature cheese will spread more easily.
• Light brown sugar caramelizes during baking and enhances the natural sweetness of the figs.
• Fresh thyme brings an earthy aromatic quality that elevates these pinwheels beyond basic pastries.
• Egg for egg wash gives that professional bakery shine and helps seal the edges.
• Optional crushed walnuts or pecans add texture and nutty depth if desired.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pastry

Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed but still cold. Working with cold dough prevents the butter layers from melting before baking, which is crucial for achieving maximum flakiness. Place the sheet on parchment paper on a clean, flat surface and gently roll to even out any creases.

Apply the Fig Layer

Using the back of a spoon, spread the fig preserves in an even layer across the entire surface of the pastry. Take care to leave approximately a half-inch border around all edges. This border helps seal the roll and prevents the filling from leaking during baking.

Add Cheese and Flavorings

Crumble the goat cheese with your fingers and distribute it evenly over the fig layer. The contrast between the tangy cheese and sweet preserves creates the signature flavor. Sprinkle the brown sugar across the surface, which will caramelize slightly during baking. Strip the thyme leaves from the stems and scatter them throughout for aromatic pops of flavor.

Roll and Chill the Log

Starting from the long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log shape, using the parchment paper to help create tension for a neat roll. The tighter your roll, the more defined your pinwheel swirls will be. Wrap the log in parchment paper and place it in the freezer for exactly 20 minutes. This critical step firms the dough just enough to slice cleanly without freezing completely.

Slice and Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the chilled log and slice into half-inch rounds using a sharp knife with a gentle sawing motion to maintain the circular shape. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch between each. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the pastry has puffed significantly and turned a deep golden brown around the edges.

Figs have been cultivated since ancient times and were considered sacred in many cultures. My grandmother always said that adding fig to a dish brings good fortune, which might explain why these pinwheels disappear so quickly at gatherings!

Make-Ahead and Storage

These pinwheels offer excellent flexibility for entertaining. You can prepare the entire roll up to three days ahead and keep it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. For longer storage, the unbaked log freezes beautifully for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then slice and bake as directed. Baked pinwheels can be stored at room temperature for up to two days in an airtight container, though they are best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal flakiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pinwheels warm from the oven for the best texture and flavor experience. They make a stunning addition to a cheese board alongside fresh fruit, honey, and nuts. For a more substantial appetizer spread, pair them with savory items like stuffed mushrooms or a charcuterie selection. They also shine as part of a brunch menu alongside egg dishes, or as a light dessert with coffee after dinner.

Perfect Pairings

The combination of sweet figs and tangy goat cheese makes these pinwheels versatile for beverage pairings. They complement both sweet and dry wines beautifully. Try them with a glass of prosecco or champagne for celebrations, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for contrast, or a fruity Pinot Noir if you prefer red wine. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling elderflower drink or honey-sweetened iced tea provides delightful accompaniment.

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Recipe Q&A

→ Can I make these fig and goat cheese pinwheels ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the roll up to 2 days in advance. Keep it wrapped tightly in parchment paper in the refrigerator. Slice and bake just before serving for the freshest results. You can also freeze the unsliced log for up to 1 month.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If you don't enjoy goat cheese, try creamy brie, tangy cream cheese, or rich mascarpone instead. For a dairy-free option, several brands make excellent plant-based cream cheese alternatives that work well in this dish.

→ How do I prevent my pinwheels from unraveling while baking?

The key is properly chilling the roll before slicing. Make sure to freeze for at least 20 minutes, which firms up the pastry and fillings. Also, use a very sharp knife for clean cuts without pressing down too hard, which can flatten and distort the spiral.

→ What can I serve with fig and goat cheese pinwheels?

These pinwheels pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Try serving them alongside a charcuterie board, fresh fruit, honey for drizzling, or a light arugula salad. For drinks, they complement both white wine and sparkling beverages excellently.

→ How do I store leftover pinwheels?

Store any leftover baked pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. The microwave will work in a pinch but may make the pastry less crisp.

→ Can I use homemade fig preserves for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade fig preserves work wonderfully and often provide even better flavor than store-bought versions. Just ensure your preserves aren't too runny, as this could make the pastry soggy. If needed, simmer homemade preserves briefly to thicken before using.