Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts Recipe
Picture this: flaky, golden pastry wrapped around creamy goat cheese, sweet honey, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts — that’s exactly what you get with Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts. These little beauties are irresistibly sophisticated yet completely approachable, brimming with a lovely blend of tangy, nutty, and sweet flavors. They make a stellar appetizer for a dinner party, a cocktail gathering, or simply an elevated afternoon snack you can proudly call your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple pleasures and each ingredient shines through! Every element contributes either boldness, creaminess, crunch, color, or a subtle aroma, coming together for a memorable bite in every tart.
- Puff pastry sheet: The flaky, buttery foundation that holds the creamy and nutty fillings, creating irresistible layers.
- Goat cheese (4 oz, softened): Delivers tang and a decadent creaminess that pairs beautifully with honey and walnuts.
- Cream cheese (2 tablespoons): Adds extra smoothness and helps mellow the goat cheese for a perfectly spreadable filling.
- Honey (1 tablespoon plus extra for drizzling): Infuses sweetness and glazes the tops for a gorgeous sheen.
- Fresh thyme leaves (1/4 teaspoon): Provides an earthy, herby brightness that elevates the savory notes.
- Chopped walnuts (1/3 cup): Brings an addictive crunch and nutty aroma to each tart.
- Egg (beaten, for egg wash): Brushes the pastry edges to create golden, glossy tops.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste, amplifying every flavor note in the filling.
How to Make Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts
Step 1: Prep the Puff Pastry
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gently roll out the thawed puff pastry on a board to smooth any creases, then cut it into 6 equal squares (or circles if you prefer a classic tartlet shape). This is the fun part, so don’t worry about perfection — a rustic look only adds to the charm of Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts!
Step 2: Whip Up the Filling
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the filling is super smooth, creamy, and flecked with fragrant green thyme. Taste for balance — you want a little tang, a hint of honeyed sweetness, and a touch of savoriness.
Step 3: Fill and Shape
Place a heaping spoonful of the goat cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square. Sprinkle a generous pinch of chopped walnuts onto each one for that wonderful crunch. Fold or gently crimp the pastry edges up and around the filling. Don’t stress about perfectly even pleats — a slightly rustic fold adds plenty of character to your Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the exposed pastry edges with the beaten egg to promote that irresistible golden color. Slide your tarts into the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes. Watch as the pastry puffs and turns gorgeously golden while the filling bubbles ever so slightly.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once your Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts emerge from the oven, immediately drizzle each with a little extra honey. This step gives each tart a glossy finish and a sweet aroma that perfectly balances the tangy cheese. Serve them warm for melty creaminess, or let them cool to room temperature for easy entertaining.
How to Serve Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra fresh thyme leaves or some finely chopped fresh herbs over the tarts just before serving. You can also add a light dusting of flaky sea salt or a few curls of lemon zest to bring out the cheese’s brightness and complement the honey drizzle.
Side Dishes
Pair your Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a beautifully balanced appetizer or light lunch. Mixed field greens, arugula, or baby spinach work wonderfully. For a festive platter, serve alongside spiced olives or sliced fresh pear.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the tarts on a vintage wooden board with sprigs of thyme and a few edible flowers for a rustic-chic look. You can slice each tart into halves or quarters and serve them as elegant finger food, or tuck a tart into a lunchbox for a gourmet twist on the go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts left (don’t be surprised if they disappear fast!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pastry will soften a little, but the flavors remain lovely.
Freezing
To freeze, let the tarts cool completely. Arrange in a single layer on a tray to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to one month. When ready to serve, reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the tarts in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until fully warmed and the pastry is crisp again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy — the oven really revives their texture.
FAQs
Can I make Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts in advance for a party?
Yes, you can assemble the tarts a few hours ahead, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. For best texture, bake them just before guests arrive so they’re flaky and aromatic when served.
What other herbs can I use if I don’t have thyme?
Fresh rosemary, chives, or basil all make tasty alternatives. Each brings a unique note to the Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
Are there nut-free alternatives for the walnuts?
Yes, you can skip the walnuts or substitute with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a crunchy texture without nuts. The tarts will still be delicious and unique!
Can I use another cheese if I don’t like goat cheese?
Absolutely! Creamy feta, ricotta, or even a tangy blue cheese can work as alternatives. Just remember, the flavor profile will change, but the pairing with honey and pastry still sings.
Do Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts taste better warm or at room temperature?
These tarts are spectacular both warm and at room temperature. Warm tarts have a gooier, creamier center, while room temperature ones are perfect for easy entertaining and still burst with flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts with people you love — they feel a bit fancy, a touch rustic, and always absolutely irresistible. If you’re ready for a little pastry magic, give these tarts a try, and let each bite brighten your day (and your table)!
Print
Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 6 tarts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts are a delightful combination of creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and sweet honey nestled in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for entertaining or as a light lunch option.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz goat cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional:
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare pastry: Roll out the puff pastry and cut into 6 equal squares or circles.
- Make filling: In a small bowl, mix the goat cheese, cream cheese, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble tarts: Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each pastry square and top with chopped walnuts. Fold or crimp the edges slightly to form a rustic tart shape.
- Brush with egg wash: Brush the edges with beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Finish: Remove from the oven, drizzle with honey, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can add dried cranberries or figs for a sweet contrast.
- These tarts pair well with a simple salad for a light lunch or make a great appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
