Fig & Goat Cheese Tartlets
Crispy phyllo tartlets filled with creamy goat cheese, sweet fig preserves, and savory prosciutto, topped with fresh thyme. Perfect as a quick, elegant appetizer or snack, these bite-sized treats balance flavor, texture, and nutrition in every piece.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 oven (preheated to 350ºF)
- 1 small spoon or measuring spoon
- 1 knife (for slicing prosciutto)
Ingredients
- 15 phyllo tartlet shells
- 4 ounces soft goat cheese chèvre
- ¼ cup fig preserves
- 4 slices prosciutto
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to Perfection: Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This ensures that your tartlets bake evenly and the phyllo shells crisp up perfectly. While the oven warms, you can prepare all your ingredients for a smooth assembly process. Preheating is crucial, as putting the tartlets in a cold oven may result in uneven baking and soggy shells.
- Prepare the Prosciutto Slices: Take the four slices of prosciutto and lay them flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice each slice into four smaller pieces, or gently tear them with your hands into bite-sized strips. These smaller pieces will fit nicely into the tartlet shells, providing just the right balance of savory flavor in each bite.
- Arrange Phyllo Tartlet Shells: Place the 15 phyllo shells on a large baking sheet, spacing them evenly so they bake consistently. If your baking sheet isn’t nonstick, you can line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Make sure the shells sit upright and maintain their shape, as they will hold all the filling ingredients.
- Add the Goat Cheese Base: Using a small spoon or measuring spoon, place approximately ½ teaspoon of soft goat cheese into the bottom of each phyllo shell. Spread it slightly to create an even base layer. Goat cheese adds a creamy texture and mild tang that pairs beautifully with the sweet fig preserves and salty prosciutto.
- Dollop Fig Preserves: Next, add about ¼ teaspoon of fig preserves on top of the goat cheese in each shell. The preserves should be a small, concentrated dollop that doesn’t overflow. Fig preserves add natural sweetness and a subtle fruity depth, balancing the richness of the cheese and the saltiness of the prosciutto.
- Layer the Prosciutto: Place one piece of the prepared prosciutto on top of the fig and goat cheese in each tartlet. The prosciutto adds a savory, slightly chewy texture that complements the creamy cheese and sweet preserves. Make sure the pieces are gently pressed in so they stay in place during baking.
- Bake Until Golden and Crisp: Transfer the baking sheet with the filled tartlets into the preheated oven. Bake for 7–10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. The phyllo shells should turn golden brown and crisp, and the fig preserves should begin to slightly melt. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so check them after 7 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Add Fresh Thyme Garnish: Once the tartlets are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly for 1–2 minutes. Top each tartlet with 3–4 fresh thyme leaves. Thyme adds a fragrant herbal note that elevates the overall flavor and makes the tartlets look visually appealing for serving.
- Serve Warm for Best Flavor: Arrange the tartlets on a serving platter and serve immediately while warm. They are perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or even a light brunch bite. Eating them warm enhances the flavor of the melted fig preserves and creamy goat cheese, giving a balanced taste in every bite.
- Optional Tips for Serving or Make-Ahead: If preparing in advance, assemble the tartlets without baking, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving to ensure the phyllo shells remain crisp. For extra flair, drizzle a tiny bit of honey over the top before serving for an additional touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor, especially goat cheese and prosciutto.
- Phyllo shells can be found pre-made in most grocery stores; ensure they are stored in a cool, dry place to prevent sogginess.
- Measure goat cheese and fig preserves carefully to avoid overfilling, which can cause spilling during baking.
- Baking times may vary depending on your oven; keep a close eye to prevent over-browning.
- Fresh thyme leaves are essential for aroma and visual appeal, but you can experiment with rosemary or microgreens as alternatives.
