Description
These Apricot Goat Cheese Puff Pastry Tarts are a delightful blend of creamy goat cheese, sweet apricot jam, and crunchy walnuts nestled in flaky puff pastry. Topped with fresh thyme and drizzled with hot honey, they offer a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, making an elegant appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry dough
Filling and Toppings
- 3-4 oz goat cheese, softened
- â…“ cup apricot jam (or preferred flavor jam)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 Tbsp thyme leaves
- Hot honey, for drizzling
- Egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 Tbsp water) for glossy edges
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the tarts.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the thawed puff pastry dough on a clean surface and slice it into 9 equal pieces, approximately 3.5 x 3.25 inches each. Place the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly score each piece about ½ inch from the edge to create a defined border that helps the pastry hold its shape while baking.
- Add the Filling: Spread a layer of softened goat cheese in the center of each pastry piece. Spoon a dollop of apricot jam over the goat cheese. Sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly on top for added crunch and flavor. Optionally, brush the edges with egg wash to achieve a golden, glossy finish once baked.
- Bake the Tarts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry has risen and turned golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the tarts and drizzle with hot honey for a subtle spicy sweetness. Allow the tarts to cool for several minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and to avoid burns.
Notes
- Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Use good-quality apricot jam or any other fruit jam for varied flavors.
- Hot honey adds a nice spicy-sweet contrast, but can be substituted with regular honey if preferred.
- These tarts are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in the oven.
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or replace with seeds.
