Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Fig and goat cheese pinwheels are my go-to for any gathering that needs a touch of sophistication without hours in the kitchen. They combine sweet fig preserves, tangy goat cheese, and herbaceous thyme all nestled in flaky puff pastry—pure elegance in bite-sized form. These are perfect for impressing a crowd or adding flair to a simple brunch at home.

The first time I made these was for my book club’s holiday get-together. They vanished from the platter before I could even grab a second helping and now friends ask for them every year.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Puff pastry sheet: Be sure to choose a brand with real butter for the flakiest result. Let it thaw just until pliable, not soggy.
• Goat cheese: Choose creamy and fresh goat cheese for tang and softness. Crumble it evenly for easier spreading.
• Fig preserves: Opt for a thick preserve with visible fig seeds for better texture. Avoid runny jams so your pinwheels do not get soggy.
• Fresh thyme: Go for sprigs with vibrant green leaves for the best flavor. Strip the leaves just before using.
• Light brown sugar: Just a touch for caramelized flavor. Use fresh, soft sugar to avoid hard lumps.
• Egg: Large and preferably at room temperature for a smooth egg wash. This gives a magazine worthy golden brown finish.

How to Make It

Prep the Pastry:

Lay your thawed but still chilled puff pastry on a parchment lined surface. If it feels sticky, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes. The cooler the dough the better the rise.

Spread the Preserves:

Use a spoon or offset spatula to gently and evenly blanket the puff pastry with fig preserves. Leave about half an inch of space on every side so the filling does not ooze out as it bakes.

Add the Goat Cheese and Seasonings:

Crumble goat cheese over the top, then gently scatter fresh thyme leaves and sprinkle the light brown sugar. Pat gently to anchor the toppings in place.

Roll and Chill the Log:

Starting from a short edge, tightly roll the pastry into a uniform log shape. Wrap it in parchment and set it in the freezer for about twenty minutes. This step makes slicing much tidier and prevents layers from getting crushed.

Slice with Precision:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. While the oven heats, use a razor sharp knife to slice the chilled log into half inch thick rounds. Clean the knife between cuts for perfect spirals.

Arrange and Brush:

Lay the pinwheels flat on a parchment lined baking sheet. Space them evenly so the air circulates. Brush the exposed tops with well beaten egg, ensuring you reach every edge.

Bake Until Golden:

Bake for about fifteen to twenty minutes until the pinwheels are deeply golden, crisp, and irresistible. The aroma is your clue they are ready.

Garnish and Serve:

Once out of the oven, sprinkle with more fresh thyme and a few cracks of black pepper if desired. These are best served warm or at room temperature.

My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the creamy tang of goat cheese paired with sticky sweet fig jam. It reminds me of holiday mornings at my aunt’s house where something always baked and fragrant sat ready for guests. The thyme’s fresh aroma ties every bite together in a simple but memorable way.

Flavor Boosters

Try swapping fig preserves with apricot or cherry jam for a different sweet note. A soft blue cheese or feta gives a bold twist instead of goat cheese. Rosemary or chopped chives works well if you are out of thyme.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pinwheels on a cheese board surrounded by grapes, nuts, and charcuterie. For brunch, pair with fresh fruit and a sparkling drink. As an elegant dessert, serve with a drizzle of honey.

Creative Twists

In fall, swap the fig for apple butter and add a pinch of cinnamon. For summer, try peach preserves and fresh basil.

With a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a bite-sized treat that always impresses. These pinwheels are ready for any occasion, fancy or casual.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of puff pastry works best?

Use high-quality, all-butter puff pastry for the flakiest, most flavorful results. Thaw it completely but keep it cold for easy handling.

→ How can I avoid soggy pinwheels?

Don't overfill with fig preserves or goat cheese. Use moderate amounts, and always chill the log before slicing to prevent filling from oozing out during baking.

→ Why is egg wash important?

The beaten egg gives the pastry its appealing golden shine and helps seal the edges, resulting in a crisp, appealing crust.

→ Can these be made ahead or frozen?

Yes. Roll and slice, then freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the bake time. Baked pinwheels can also be frozen and reheated in the oven.

→ What are some garnish ideas?

Add fresh thyme, cracked black pepper, or a light drizzle of honey after baking for extra flavor and a polished finish.