Are you looking for a showstopper appetizer that combines the perfect balance of savory and sweet? Look no further than these irresistible Baked Goat Cheese and Cranberry Tartlets! These bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more.
With their flaky pastry shells filled with tangy goat cheese and bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh cranberries, these tartlets are a true celebration of seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or a cozy gathering with friends, these tartlets are guaranteed to elevate your appetizer game.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed according to package instructions
- 8 ounces of soft goat cheese
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1 tablespoon of water
- Sprinkle of chopped fresh thyme (optional)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
In a medium bowl, combine the goat cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and beaten egg. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a 10×12-inch rectangle. Cut out rounds using a 3-inch cookie cutter or the rim of a glass. Gently press the rounds into the prepared muffin cups, creating a little cup shape.
Spoon a tablespoon of the goat cheese mixture into each pastry cup. Top with a few fresh or frozen cranberries, pressing them lightly into the cheese.
In a small saucepan, combine the honey and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey is melted and the mixture is well combined. Using a pastry brush or a spoon, lightly brush the honey mixture over the tartlets and cranberries.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is slightly puffed. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before transferring the tartlets to a wire rack. Sprinkle with chopped fresh thyme, if desired.
Serve these delightful Baked Goat Cheese and Cranberry Tartlets warm or at room temperature, and prepare to be showered with compliments from your guests. Their irresistible combination of flavors and textures is sure to make them a new favorite at any gathering.