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Snowflake Tartlets with Goat Cheese

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These Snowflake Tartlets with Goat Cheese are a stunning and savory appetizer, perfect for your holiday gatherings or any special occasion. The delicate, flaky pastry is paired with the creamy tang of goat cheese and finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and seasonal toppings like pomegranate seeds or walnuts for a festive touch. These mini tartlets are easy to make and look beautiful on any appetizer platter, making them a show-stopping starter for your next celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tartlet Crust:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon flour (for dusting)

For the Goat Cheese Filling:

  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish (optional):

  • Pomegranate seeds
  • Chopped walnuts or pecans
  • Fresh thyme sprigs
  • Drizzle of honey or balsamic reduction

Instructions

  • Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a snowflake-shaped cookie cutter (or any preferred shape), cut out mini tartlet shapes. You can also use a round cutter and cut out circles to fit into mini muffin tins.
  • Bake the Tartlet Shells: Place the pastry shapes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a fork to lightly score the edges of each tartlet (this helps the edges puff up nicely). Brush each pastry with a thin layer of beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed. Allow to cool slightly.
  • Prepare the Goat Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine softened goat cheese, cream cheese, fresh thyme, lemon zest, and honey (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Assemble the Tartlets: Once the puff pastry shells have cooled, spoon a generous amount of goat cheese mixture into the center of each tartlet. Spread it evenly, leaving a small border of pastry around the edges.
  • Garnish and Serve: Top the tartlets with seasonal garnishes such as pomegranate seeds, chopped walnuts, fresh thyme sprigs, or a drizzle of honey or balsamic reduction for extra flavor and visual appeal.
  • Serve: Serve these elegant Snowflake Tartlets with Goat Cheese immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Notes

  • Substitutions: If you prefer a milder cheese, you can substitute the goat cheese with cream cheese or ricotta.
  • Make-Ahead: The tartlet shells can be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Fill them with the goat cheese mixture and garnish just before serving.
  • Seasonal Variations: For an extra burst of flavor, top the tartlets with caramelized onions, roasted beetroot, or even a small slice of smoked salmon.
  • Serving Suggestions: These tartlets pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco.

Keywords: Snowflake Tartlets with Goat Cheese, goat cheese tartlets, puff pastry appetizers, holiday tartlets, savory mini tartlets, festive appetizers, Christmas tartlets, goat cheese bites, puff pastry bites, easy holiday appetizers

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