Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are the kind of showstopping appetizer that fools everyone into thinking you spent hours in the kitchen—but really, they’re delightfully simple to make. Imagine flaky, golden puff pastry, sweet ribbons of fig preserves, tangy goat cheese, and a hint of fresh thyme—all spiraled together in one irresistible bite. This is one of those recipes I absolutely cannot keep to myself!

Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how every ingredient in Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels works to make each bite both memorable and crave-worthy. You really don’t need much—but don’t skip these! Each component adds a special touch to the flavor, texture, or look of these golden spirals.

• Puff Pastry Sheet (thawed): This is your shortcut to impossibly crisp, flaky layers—store-bought works beautifully here (my go-to is Jus-Rol, but use any favorite brand).
• Fig Preserves: The sweet, jammy fig spread is the heart of the recipe, adding deep fruitiness that plays perfectly off the goat cheese.
• Goat Cheese (crumbled): Tangy and creamy, goat cheese brings a luxurious richness and a gorgeous melt that ties all the flavors together.
• Fresh Thyme: Just a few sprigs go a long way, infusing each pinwheel with aromatic, herby notes that cut through the sweetness.
• Light Brown Sugar: A sprinkle adds a caramelized crunch and a hint of molasses-y depth.
• Large Egg: This is for the egg wash, giving that wonderful bakery shine and deep golden color to your finished pastries.

Variations

One of the best things about Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels is how flexible they are—feel free to mix, match, and make them your own! These swaps and tweaks can help you tailor the recipe to your pantry, personal cravings, or dietary needs.

• Swap the Jam: Try apricot, raspberry, or cherry preserves for a different fruity vibe—you’ll love how each version brings something unique.
• Change the Cheese: If you’re not a goat cheese fan, use creamy brie, tangy feta, or even soft blue cheese for a whole new twist.
• Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped walnuts or pistachios over the jam layer for a nutty crunch and extra dimension.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based puff pastry, vegan cheese, and a non-dairy milk wash for a crowd-pleasing vegan spin.

How to Make Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry

Unroll your thawed sheet of puff pastry and lay it out flat on a piece of parchment paper. This step is all about starting with a smooth, even surface—don’t worry if the edges aren’t perfectly straight! Just make sure it’s fully thawed so it stays flexible and easy to roll later.

Step 2: Add Your Toppings

Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread the fig preserves all over the pastry sheet, leaving about an inch or so around the border untouched. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly, then scatter fresh thyme leaves and that light brown sugar so you get a little bit of everything in every bite.

Step 3: Roll and Chill

Starting on one long side, roll the puff pastry up tightly into a log, tucking in as you go so nothing spills out. Wrap the log in parchment paper and place it in the freezer for about 20 minutes. This quick chill is key—it makes slicing so much easier and helps the pinwheels hold their shape when baking.

Step 4: Slice into Pinwheels

Once the log is chilled, unwrap it and use a sharp knife to cut it into ½-inch slices. Wipe your knife between cuts to get the cleanest, most beautiful spirals (it’s worth the few extra seconds!). Arrange the pinwheels evenly on your parchment-lined sheet pan.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Beat one egg in a small bowl, then lightly brush the tops of the pinwheels with this egg wash for glorious shine. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until they’re puffed and golden with irresistibly crispy edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

While the Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are still dreamy and warm, sprinkle them with a little extra brown sugar and fresh thyme. Serve right away—they’re best enjoyed fresh from the oven!

How to Serve Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels

Garnishes

A quick sprinkle of fresh thyme and an extra touch of light brown sugar on top makes your Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels look utterly bakery-worthy. If you’re feeling fancy, a little crack of fresh black pepper brings just a hint of savory bite, too.

Side Dishes

Serve these pinwheels as part of a festive brunch board with fresh grapes, sliced pears, or salty olives. They also make a stunning cheese board addition—pair alongside aged cheddar, brie, or even a bold blue cheese for a feast of flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the pinwheels in a circular wreath on a large platter, alternate with bunches of grapes for a striking centerpiece, or skewer each one with a pretty toothpick for effortless serving at parties. They’re irresistible however you display them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with leftovers (rare, I promise!), store your Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pastry won’t stay as crisp as on day one, but they’re still delicious—especially when gently reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze the sliced, unbaked pinwheels on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag once solid—bake straight from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes. If freezing baked ones, cool completely, wrap well, and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring back the fresh-baked magic, reheat pinwheels in a 350°F oven for about 5–8 minutes. Microwave makes them hot but not crisp, so if you love that perfect flake, opt for the oven every time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fail-proof way to turn simple ingredients into a taste-bud-tingling treat, Fig and Goat Cheese Pinwheels are your answer. Invite some friends over, pour a glass of wine, and watch these little spirals disappear faster than you can say “save me another one!” Go ahead and treat yourself and your favorite people—they’re truly a bite-sized celebration.

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