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Baked Goat Cheese Dip Recipe

Baked Goat Cheese Dip Recipe

5.1 from 17 reviews

This Baked Goat Cheese Dip is a creamy, tangy appetizer perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. Made with smooth goat cheese and light cream cheese, it’s baked until bubbly and topped with sweet fig jam and crunchy nuts, creating a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or apple slices for a crowd-pleasing starter that’s simple yet sophisticated.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Dip

  • 8 oz. goat cheese log, softened
  • 4 oz. light cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt, to taste

Toppings

  • 1/3 cup fig jam
  • Handful of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

To Serve

  • Baguette slices
  • Crackers
  • Apple slices

Bread Prep

  • Olive oil for brushing baguette slices
  • Optional: Garlic clove, for rubbing toasted bread

Instructions

  1. Prep Bread: Slice the baguette into thin pieces and lightly brush each slice with olive oil. Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 6-7 minutes or until crisp and golden. Once toasted, remove from the oven and optionally rub with a cut garlic clove for added flavor.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In the bowl of a food processor, combine the softened goat cheese, light cream cheese, and olive oil. Process the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring a uniform texture.
  3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the creamy cheese mixture into a small, shallow baking dish using a silicone spatula. Smooth out the surface evenly for consistent baking.
  4. Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly. Remove and taste, adding kosher salt as needed to balance the flavors.
  5. Add Toppings: While the dip is still hot, spoon dollops of fig jam on top and gently swirl it into the goat cheese with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle with chopped nuts to add crunch and visual appeal.
  6. Serve: Serve the warm baked goat cheese dip immediately with toasted baguette slices, crackers, and apple slices for dipping and spreading.

Notes

  • Softening the cheeses before mixing helps create a smooth dip.
  • Fig jam adds a sweet contrast; you can substitute with other fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry.
  • Chopped nuts add texture—try walnuts, pecans, or toasted almonds for variation.
  • For a garlicky touch, rub toasted bread slices with a fresh garlic clove before serving.
  • Adjust salt to taste after baking, as the cheeses may already be salty.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor; leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked goat cheese dip, goat cheese appetizer, fig jam dip, easy cheese dip, party appetizer