Description
8 oz goat cheese, softened
1 cup fresh cranberries
2 tbsp honey, plus more for drizzling
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh baguette slices or crackers, for serving
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a small baking dish.
In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cranberries and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to soften
and pop. Stir in honey, fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Spread the softened goat cheese evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cranberry mixture over the goat cheese.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is soft and slightly golden at the edges.
Remove from the oven and drizzle with additional honey. Garnish with chopped walnuts and fresh rosemary.
Serve warm with baguette slices or crackers for dipping. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 250 per serving Servings: 6 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small oven-safe baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Cranberry Topping: In a small saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 cup of fresh cranberries. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften, pop, and release their juices. Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2 more minutes to meld the flavors, then set aside.
3. Assemble: Spread the 8 oz of softened goat cheese evenly in the bottom of your prepared dish. Pour the warm cranberry mixture over the cheese, spreading it gently to cover most of the surface.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The bake is complete when the cheese is visibly soft and the edges are just beginning to turn a light golden brown.
5. Garnish & Serve: Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Immediately drizzle with a little extra honey. Sprinkle with optional chopped walnuts and the remaining fresh rosemary for garnish. Serve while warm.
Serving Suggestions
This warm baked goat cheese is incredibly versatile. Serve it directly from the baking dish for a rustic, shareable appetizer. Offer an array of dippers such as sliced baguette, sturdy crackers, apple slices, or pear slices. For a fuller cheese board, pair it with cured meats like prosciutto and additional nuts. It also makes a fantastic topping for a holiday salad or a gourmet sandwich spread.
How-to Summary
Softened goat cheese is baked under a quick, homemade cranberry-rosemary compote until warm and spreadable. The tangy cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, and aromatic rosemary create a perfect balance. The dish is finished with a honey drizzle and optional walnuts for crunch, then served warm with bread or crackers for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh? Yes, but the result will be different. Soak 3/4 cup of dried cranberries in hot water for 10 minutes to plump them up before using. The compote will be sweeter and less tart.
How can I make this ahead of time? Assemble the dish completely—spread the cheese and top with the cooked cranberry mixture. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What’s a good substitute for goat cheese? For a similar texture, try Brie or Camembert (with the rind on). For a milder flavor, use a block of cream cheese. Adjust baking time slightly as needed.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low-temperature oven until just warm.
Can I freeze this dish? Freezing is not recommended, as the dairy and cranberry textures will change significantly upon thawing, resulting in a grainy cheese and watery topping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Cheese: Ensure your goat cheese is softened at room temperature before spreading. Cold cheese is difficult to spread evenly and may not bake properly.
- Overcooking the Cranberries: Cook just until they pop and soften. Overcooking can make the compote too jam-like and overly sweet.
- Overbaking: The goal is to warm and soften the cheese, not melt it into a liquid. Remove it as soon as the edges are lightly golden.
- Skipping the Garnish: The final drizzle of honey and fresh rosemary garnish are not just decorative; they add essential layers of flavor and aroma that elevate the dish.
Conclusion
This Baked Goat Cheese with Cranberry Rosemary Compote is the ultimate effortless yet impressive appetizer. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a warm, flavorful centerpiece for your gathering that perfectly blends creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory notes. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll guarantee a crowd-pleasing dish every time. It’s a simple recipe that delivers gourmet results, making it a perfect choice for holiday entertaining or a cozy night in.
