Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Introduction
Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful appetizer combining creamy goat cheese with sweet fig jam, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for parties or a simple snack.

Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup goat cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup fig jam (or chopped dried figs)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (optional, finely chopped)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Honey drizzle
- Balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If using store-bought pastry, ensure it’s thawed according to package instructions.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, mix softened goat cheese, fig jam, and rosemary (if using) until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Evenly spread the goat cheese and fig mixture across the puff pastry, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Step 5: Roll the pastry into a tight log and slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
- Step 6: For a golden finish, brush the tops of the pinwheels with beaten egg wash (if using).
- Step 7: Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Step 8: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Step 9: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly, then drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey if desired. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use dried figs chopped finely if fig jam is not available for a more textured filling.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch.
- Replace rosemary with thyme or omit herbs for a simpler flavor.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free cheese and skip the egg wash.
Storage
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. These are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen before baking; bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and slice the pinwheels, then refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Goat cheese provides a tangy creaminess that’s ideal, but cream cheese or ricotta can be used as alternatives, though the flavor profile will be milder.
PrintFig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
These Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are a deliciously elegant appetizer featuring flaky puff pastry filled with a creamy blend of goat cheese and sweet fig jam, enhanced by fresh rosemary and finished with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties, brunch, or anytime you want a sophisticated yet simple treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 pinwheels 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Puff Pastry
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 1/2 cup goat cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup fig jam (or chopped dried figs)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (optional, finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Finishing
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
- Honey drizzle
- Balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until smooth. If using store-bought pastry, ensure it’s fully thawed as per package instructions.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, fig jam, and finely chopped rosemary if using, mixing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the goat cheese and fig mixture across the surface of the rolled-out puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the log.
- Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the pastry into a tight log from one end to the other. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch pinwheel pieces.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it lightly over the tops of each pinwheel to achieve a beautiful golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes, then drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze as desired. Serve warm for the best taste.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh figs for fig jam by finely chopping and slightly cooking them down with a bit of sugar.
- If you prefer vegan or dairy-free options, use plant-based cream cheese and a vegan puff pastry.
- Make sure the puff pastry is well chilled before rolling to ensure flakiness.
- Pinwheels can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Serve these as a sophisticated appetizer or tea-time snack paired with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Keywords: fig and goat cheese pinwheels, puff pastry appetizers, fig jam recipes, goat cheese snacks, party appetizers, easy baked snacks

