Can I use dried figs instead of fig jam?

You can! I’ve done this when fresh figs or jam weren’t available. Just chop the dried figs and simmer them with a splash of water, a little honey, and a touch of lemon juice. In about 10 minutes, you’ll have a rustic, sticky spread that works beautifully as a jam substitute.

How far in advance can I make these?

You can make the crusts and filling up to 2 days in advance and store them separately. If you assemble the tarts, they’re best enjoyed within 24–36 hours . Any longer, and the crust starts to soften.

Do they need to be refrigerated?

Yes. Because of the dairy filling, they should be kept chilled until ready to serve. I usually take them out about 15–20 minutes before serving so the flavors can bloom at room temperature.

Can I make one big tart instead of mini ones?

Absolutely. Just press the crust into a 9-inch tart pan and bake the same way. Add 1–2 minutes to the baking time if needed. It slices cleanly once chilled and makes a stunning centerpiece.

Goat Cheese and Fig Tarts – 5-Star Mini Luxury Bites

Name: Goat Cheese and Fig Tarts That Taste Like Pure Luxury
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups walnuts (finely ground); ½ cup all-purpose flour; 3 tbsp sugar; 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); Pinch of salt; 8 oz goat cheese; 4 oz cream cheese; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tsp lemon zest; ½ cup fig jam; Fresh fig slices (optional); Chopped walnuts (for garnish); Fresh thyme sprigs

Description

Crispy walnut crusts filled with whipped goat cheese, fig jam, and fresh thyme. These elegant tarts are a sweet-savory bite of luxury.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups walnuts (finely ground)

½ cup all-purpose flour

3 tbsp sugar

6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Pinch of salt

8 oz goat cheese

4 oz cream cheese

2 tbsp honey

1 tsp lemon zest

½ cup fig jam

Fresh fig slices (optional)

Chopped walnuts (for garnish)

Fresh thyme sprigs

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix ground walnuts, flour, sugar, melted butter, and salt until crumbly.

3. Press into greased mini tart pans.

4. Bake 12–15 min until golden. Cool completely.

5. Beat goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, and lemon zest until smooth.

6. Spoon filling into cooled crusts.

7. Top with fig jam and optional fresh figs.

8. Garnish with walnuts and thyme.

9. Chill lightly before serving.

Notes

Use pecans as a walnut substitute.

Add balsamic glaze for a bonus flavor twist.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American