Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Looking for an appetizer that feels downright fancy but takes almost no effort? These Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels deliver everything: buttery, golden pastry wrapped around sweet fig preserves, tangy goat cheese, fresh thyme, and a sparkle of brown sugar. Bite into one and you’ll see why I bring them out for everything from book clubs to brunch—and they always disappear in minutes!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of ingredients for Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels, but each one shines and makes a delicious difference in flavor and texture. Every component, from flaky pastry to tangy cheese, keeps these pinwheels balanced and crave-worthy.

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed: Store-bought puff pastry gives you those irresistible flaky, buttery layers without any of the fuss—just unroll and you’re ready to go!
• ½ cup fig preserves: The sweet, subtly earthy flavor partners perfectly with tart goat cheese. If your fig preserves are thick, give them a quick stir before spreading.
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled: Choose a tangy, creamy log for the best melting and flavor—crumbled evenly so every bite gets just the right punch.
• 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme: The fresh green flavor of thyme brightens up the whole dish; strip the leaves right off the stems for even distribution.
• 2 tbsp light brown sugar: Just a touch adds a caramel note and helps the tops of the pinwheels caramelize as they bake.
• 1 large egg: For the essential egg wash, lending a beautiful, glossy finish to every pinwheel.

Variations

One of the many joys of Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels is how easy they are to riff on. Switch things up based on what you have on hand, dietary needs, or even just your current cravings—these pinwheels are brilliantly flexible.

• Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the fig preserves for a little nutty crunch in every swirl.
• Try a Different Cheese: Swap in blue cheese for extra tang, or creamy brie for a milder flavor and oozy texture.
• Go Vegan: Use vegan puff pastry, plant-based cheese, and swap the egg wash for a splash of non-dairy milk.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or cracked black pepper adds a lively, surprising kick.

How to Make Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Step 1: Prep Your Puff Pastry

Start by gently unrolling your thawed puff pastry sheet on a sheet of parchment paper. If it cracks at all, just pinch it back together—no stress needed. The parchment keeps things neat and makes rolling and transferring a breeze!

Step 2: Spread the Fig Preserves

Spoon your fig preserves right onto the pastry and use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread an even layer. Leave approximately a one-inch border along the sides. This helps contain the filling when you roll things up and prevents ooze.

Step 3: Add Cheese, Thyme, and Brown Sugar

Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the fig layer—press gently to anchor it. Next, strip leaves from the fresh thyme and scatter them over, then finish with a dusting of brown sugar. Each swirl will have a perfect bite of everything.

Step 4: Roll and Chill

Working from one long side, slowly and gently roll up the pastry into a snug log, keeping it as tight as possible so you get beautiful swirls. Once rolled, use the parchment paper to wrap the log, then slide it into the freezer for 20 minutes. Chilling at this step makes slicing so much neater (and saves you from mushy pinwheels)!

Step 5: Slice Into Pinwheels

Preheat your oven to 400°F while the dough chills. After 20 minutes, unwrap the chilled log and use a very sharp knife to slice into ½-inch rounds. Wipe your knife after each cut—this little trick keeps the swirls clean and the layers defined.

Step 6: Arrange & Egg Wash

Gently lay the pinwheels cut-side up on the parchment-lined sheet pan, leaving room between each for expansion. In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush the tops of each pinwheel lightly for those gloriously shiny, golden tops.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 15–20 minutes until the pastry is puffed and deeply golden, and your kitchen smells absolutely magical. Garnish with more fresh thyme and a sprinkle of brown sugar while warm, and try to resist devouring them straight off the pan!

How to Serve Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Garnishes

I love to finish Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels with a final flourish of fresh thyme leaves and a dainty sprinkle of brown sugar while they’re still warm. You can even try a touch of flaky sea salt to highlight the sweet and savory flavors—each garnish elevates both taste and appearance.

Side Dishes

Pair these pinwheels with crisp apple slices, clusters of grapes, or a vibrant salad tossed with arugula and toasted nuts for an appetizer spread that truly sings. They also play beautifully next to a simple cheese board or a bowl of marinated olives.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels in a spiral on a cake stand for a dramatic centerpiece, or nestle them into a rustic wooden board with sprigs of fresh herbs scattered around. Want to impress? Serve them standing upright in mini parchment cones, or arrange atop a bed of salad greens for a sophisticated starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels (if you’re magically left with any!) keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cool them completely before storing to keep the pastry from going soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked pinwheels after slicing—just lay them on a baking sheet, freeze solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. When cravings strike, bake straight from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the bake time.

Reheating

To revive leftover pinwheels, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again—don’t use the microwave as it softens the pastry. They’re best enjoyed slightly warm, right when the cheese is gooey and the pastry shatters delicately.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to bring a little wow-factor and warmth to your table, Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are it. They’re truly effortless, always gorgeous, and—best of all—impossibly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try them for your next get-together or cozy night in. Happy baking!

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