Baked Figs with Goat Cheese

These baked figs with goat cheese are a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. I love how the figs become tender and caramelized in the oven, while the creamy goat cheese and honey bring richness and balance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s elegant yet incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of figs, goat cheese, walnuts, and honey makes for a beautiful appetizer or light dessert. I also enjoy that it only takes a few ingredients but feels gourmet enough to impress guests.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

6 medium-sized figs
80 grams or 2.8 oz soft goat cheese
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon chopped sage
2 tablespoons honey
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. I wash the figs, pat them dry, and cut a cross shape on the top of each one, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. I gently open each fig and stuff the center with a spoonful of goat cheese.
4. I sprinkle the walnuts and chopped sage over the figs.
5. I drizzle honey evenly over the top and season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
6. I place the figs in a baking dish and bake for 12–15 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.
7. I serve them warm, with extra honey drizzled if I like.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 3–4 servings. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, so I plan for about 25 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the goat cheese for blue cheese for a bolder flavor. I also like to drizzle balsamic glaze instead of honey for a tangier finish. For extra crunch, I add pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in the oven at 300°F until just heated through. I don’t recommend microwaving since it changes the texture of the figs.

FAQs

Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?

Fresh figs work best, but I can rehydrate dried figs in warm water and then stuff them if needed.

What type of goat cheese should I use?

I prefer a soft, creamy goat cheese that melts slightly when baked.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the figs with cheese and nuts a few hours in advance, then bake right before serving.

What wine pairs well with baked figs?

I like serving them with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or a light sparkling wine.

Can I use a different herb instead of sage?

Yes, I sometimes use thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

How do I keep the figs from splitting apart?

I cut only about two-thirds of the way down when making the cross so they hold their shape.

Can I grill the figs instead of baking?

Yes, I place them on a piece of foil over the grill and cook until softened.

Are baked figs served as an appetizer or dessert?

They work beautifully as either, depending on whether I want a savory starter or a sweet finish.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, I use a dairy-free cheese alternative and replace honey with maple syrup or agave.

What can I serve alongside baked figs?

I like pairing them with crusty bread, arugula salad, or a charcuterie board.

Conclusion

I enjoy making baked figs with goat cheese because they’re simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor. The sweetness of the figs, the creaminess of the cheese, and the crunch of the walnuts create a dish that feels both indulgent and balanced. It’s one of my favorite recipes when I want something quick yet impressive.

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