Honey, Apricot, and Almond Goat Cheese Spread Recipe

Introduction

This Honey, Apricot, and Almond Goat Cheese Spread combines creamy goat cheese with the sweet flavors of apricot and honey, topped with crunchy almonds for texture. It’s a delightful appetizer perfect for entertaining or a cozy snack with crackers and fresh fruit.

Ingredients

• 8 oz goat cheese or cream cheese
• 1/3 cup lightly salted almonds
• 4-5 dried apricots, chopped
• 2-3 tsp fresh chopped parsley or basil
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup apricot preserves
• Honey, for drizzling
• An assortment of crackers
• Fresh sliced Granny Smith apple

Instructions

1. Step 1: Remove the goat cheese from its packaging and allow it to soften to room temperature for easier mixing and rolling.
2. Step 2: Spread the apricot preserves evenly on a cheese tray or serving platter as a flavorful base.
3. Step 3: Place almonds in a plastic bag or between two paper towels and crush them using a blunt object, like a glass bottle, until coarsely chopped.
4. Step 4: Chop the dried apricots finely and mix them with the crushed almonds and fresh chopped parsley or basil.
5. Step 5: Roll the softened goat cheese into the almond and apricot mixture, pressing gently to coat it well on all sides.
6. Step 6: Place the coated goat cheese log on top of the apricot preserves, then arrange crackers and fresh apple slices around it for serving.
7. Step 7: Drizzle a generous amount of honey over the goat cheese log and surrounding toppings to finish the dish.

Tips & Variations

• Try swapping parsley with fresh basil for a different herbaceous note.
• Use cream cheese if you prefer a milder, creamier spread.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the almond mixture for a subtle kick.
• Serve with a variety of crackers or toasted baguette slices for added texture.

Storage

Store any leftover spread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve again, bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Drizzle with fresh honey before serving to enhance the flavors.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried apricots?

Fresh apricots have more moisture and a milder flavor, which could alter the texture and taste. If using fresh apricots, finely chop and consider reducing apricot preserves slightly to balance moisture.

What can I substitute for almonds if I have a nut allergy?

For a nut-free option, try toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch, or skip the crunchy coating altogether and simply roll the cheese in herbs or finely chopped dried fruit.

Honey, Apricot, and Almond Goat Cheese Spread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 73 reviews

This delightful Honey, Apricot, and Almond Goat Cheese Spread is a perfect appetizer combining creamy goat cheese rolled in a crunchy almond and apricot mixture, paired with sweet apricot preserves and a drizzle of honey. Served with an assortment of crackers and fresh Granny Smith apple slices, it’s a simple yet elegant spread that bursts with sweet, nutty, and fresh flavors, ideal for entertaining or casual snacking.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6–8 as an appetizer 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 oz goat cheese or cream cheese
• 1/3 cup lightly salted almonds
• 4–5 dried apricots, chopped
• 2–3 tsp fresh chopped parsley or basil
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup apricot preserves
• Honey, for drizzling

Accompaniments

• An assortment of crackers
• Fresh sliced Granny Smith apple

Instructions

1. Soften the Cheese: Remove the goat cheese from its packaging and let it come to room temperature to make it easier to work with and roll.
2. Prepare the Base: Spread the apricot preserves evenly on a cheese tray or serving platter to create a sweet and sticky base for the cheese.
3. Crush the Almonds: Place the almonds in a sealed bag or between two paper towels, then crush them coarsely using a blunt object like a glass olive oil bottle to achieve a crunchy texture.
4. Mix Apricots and Herbs: Chop the dried apricots finely and combine them with the crushed almonds and freshly chopped parsley or basil, mixing well to blend flavors.
5. Coat the Cheese: Roll the softened goat cheese log gently in the almond and apricot mixture, pressing lightly so the ingredients stick and coat the cheese evenly.
6. Assemble on Platter: Place the coated goat cheese log on top of the apricot preserve base on the tray, then arrange crackers and fresh Granny Smith apple slices around it for serving.
7. Finish with Honey: Drizzle honey generously over the cheese and the surroundings to add a lovely sweetness that complements the tangy cheese and crunchy nuts.

Notes

• Room temperature cheese rolls more easily and holds the coating better.
• You can substitute parsley with fresh basil depending on your flavor preference.
• Lightly salted almonds add a nice contrast to the sweetness; unsalted can be used if preferred.
• The amount of apricot preserves can be adjusted depending on how sweet and sticky you want the base layer.
• Serve immediately after assembly for the best texture and freshness.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.

Keywords: goat cheese spread, apricot preserves, almond cheese roll, honey cheese appetizer, easy no-cook appetizer, cheese platter recipe