Description
This Warm Goat Cheese Dip is a rich and creamy appetizer perfect for entertaining. Combining tangy goat cheese, smooth cream cheese, fragrant herbs, and a touch of garlic, this dip is baked until bubbly and golden. Served warm with baguette slices, crackers, and fresh vegetables, it offers a delightful balance of creamy texture and herbaceous flavor, ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Serving
- Baguette slices
- Crackers
- Crudités (carrots, celery, cucumber)
Optional Garnishes
- Honey, for drizzling
- Toasted walnuts, for garnish
Instructions
- Soften the Cheeses: Make sure your goat cheese and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easy blending.
- Combine the Cheeses: In a medium-sized bowl, blend the softened goat cheese and cream cheese using a fork or hand mixer until smooth and well combined.
- Add the Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and mix gently until fully incorporated, creating a creamy base for the dip.
- Incorporate Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, chopped rosemary, and optional red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a small oven-safe baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Transfer Mixture: Pour the cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Drizzle remaining olive oil over the top to enhance flavor and browning.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the dip is heated through and bubbly with lightly golden edges.
- Optional Broiling: For a more golden-brown top, broil the dip for the final 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Remove and Cool Slightly: Carefully take the dish out and let it cool for a few minutes as it will be very hot.
- Garnish: Sprinkle toasted walnuts over the dip if using.
- Drizzle with Honey (Optional): Add a drizzle of honey for a hint of sweetness to complement the savory flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Serve warm with baguette slices, crackers, and crudités for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure the cheeses are softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dip.
- Red pepper flakes add subtle heat but can be omitted if you prefer a milder dip.
- Broiling is optional but adds an attractive golden finish; watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Warm the dip just before serving to enjoy its creamy texture and enhanced flavors.
- Toasted walnuts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that pairs well with the dip.
- Drizzling honey balances the tanginess of goat cheese with a touch of sweetness, but use sparingly.
