Name: Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10.5 ounce log plain goat cheese; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Kosher salt, a pinch; 1 cup pecan halves; Sliced French baguette

Print Recipe· 4.2 from 7 reviews

If you adore the rich creaminess of goat cheese paired with the warm, nutty sweetness of pecans, then the Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe is about to become your new go-to indulgence. This delightful dish combines a luscious caramel glaze with perfectly toasted pecans atop soft, baked goat cheese, creating a harmony of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking for an impressive appetizer for your next gathering or a cozy snack to savor by yourself, this recipe brings comfort and elegance to the table in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white Staub oval baking dish on a white marbled surface, filled with thirteen round pieces of soft white goat cheese spread evenly across the dish. Surrounding the dish are small bowls each containing different ingredients: a bowl with light brown sugar granules, a bowl with medium brown pecan halves, a bowl with several yellow butter squares, a small bowl of creamy white cream, a small bowl with dark brown vanilla liquid, and a small dish with a blend of white and light brown cinnamon powder. Each ingredient is clearly separated and easy to see. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to delivering the perfect Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe. Each component plays an important role, from the creamy tang of goat cheese to the buttery sweetness of the pecan topping that sets the flavor balance just right.

10.5 ounce log plain goat cheese: Choose a smooth, fresh cheese for the best creamy texture after baking.
1/2 cup butter: Adds silkiness and helps caramelize the topping beautifully.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Gives that classic caramel sweetness with a hint of molasses complexity.
1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates a glossy, rich sauce that binds the topping together perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the caramel flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings a subtle spice that deepens the overall warmth of the dish.
Kosher salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and brighten the flavors.
1 cup pecan halves: Provides a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor essential to the Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe.
Sliced French baguette for serving: Perfect for scooping up the gooey goat cheese and caramel sauce.

How to Make Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Goat Cheese

Start by freezing the goat cheese log for about 20 minutes so it firms up enough to slice cleanly without crumbling. Once chilled, cut the cheese into neat 1/2-inch slices and arrange them evenly in a small baking dish. This step helps maintain the shape during baking, ensuring each slice stays creamy and intact.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, you can prepare the luscious pecan topping. A properly heated oven ensures the goat cheese bakes evenly to that perfect soft, warm texture.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Pecan Topping

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Stir almost constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the sugar dissolves fully and the mixture becomes smooth. This creates the base of the topping that gives the dessert its irresistible glossy finish.

Step 4: Add Cream, Vanilla, and Spices

Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and just a pinch of kosher salt. Continue cooking for about a minute until the mixture is rich, shiny, and perfectly blended. These ingredients add depth and complexity, turning simple caramel into a beautifully balanced sauce.

Step 5: Incorporate the Pecans

Gently fold the pecan halves into the caramel mixture, making sure they get evenly coated. The pecans are key to giving that iconic nutty crunch that elevates the entire dish.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the warm caramel pecan mixture evenly over the sliced goat cheese in the baking dish. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the goat cheese is melted and creamy, and the caramel sauce bubbles enticingly around the nuts.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let the Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your mouth with the hot caramel. Serve warm alongside sliced French baguette to enjoy every bite with a perfect crunch. This combination makes it utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe

A small black pot with two handles, one longer and covered with a black grip, filled with dark brown syrup mixed with whole pecan halves floating on the surface, all set on a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme or a few delicate microgreens offers a vibrant contrast to the warm sweetness, adding color and a hint of earthiness that complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a fresh, crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweet and savory intensity. A lightly dressed arugula salad with lemon and olive oil works wonderfully as a refreshing sidekick.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, try serving individual portions of the Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe in small ramekins or on toasted crostini as bite-sized appetizers. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on the side for dipping and add a handful of pecan halves scattered around for that extra wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will mellow slightly but remain delicious, making it easy to enjoy this cozy treat again soon.

Freezing

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked goat cheese with topping in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth, reheat leftovers in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 8-10 minutes until soft and bubbling, or microwave briefly in short bursts to avoid overheating the cheese.

FAQs

Can I use flavored goat cheese for the Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe?

You can experiment with flavored goat cheese, such as herb or garlic varieties, but plain goat cheese offers the best balance and lets the sweet pecan topping shine without overpowering the dish.

Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?

To make a vegan version, use a plant-based goat cheese substitute and swap butter and cream for vegan alternatives like coconut oil and coconut cream. Keep in mind, the texture and taste will differ slightly.

Can I prepare the topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the caramel pecan topping in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before pouring over the goat cheese for the best results.

How important is it to chill the goat cheese before slicing?

Chilling the goat cheese makes slicing easier and cleaner, helping the slices hold their shape during baking. Skipping this step might cause the cheese to become too soft and harder to handle.

What type of bread works best for serving?

A sliced French baguette is ideal due to its crisp crust and soft interior. However, rustic sourdough or even melba toast work well, providing a satisfying crunch to complement the creamy goat cheese.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Pecan Pie Baked Goat Cheese Recipe enough if you want to bring something spectacular yet surprisingly easy to your table. Its perfect blend of creamy, sweet, nutty, and warm flavors makes it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and watch this favorite become a fixture at your gatherings and cozy nights alike!