These Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts are a delightful blend of creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a delicate, buttery tart crust. The savory flavors of the goat cheese complement the toasted walnuts, creating a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. With their sophisticated taste and elegant presentation, these tarts are sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect balance of flavors: The tangy goat cheese and rich walnuts come together beautifully in a flaky pastry crust.
Great for entertaining: These tarts make a fantastic appetizer or party snack.
Easy to prepare: The recipe is simple and quick to make, using readily available ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

All-purpose flour: The base for the flaky tart crust.
Unsalted butter: Cold butter gives the crust a rich, tender texture.
Salt: A pinch of salt to balance the flavors of the crust.
Cold water: Helps bring the dough together without making it too sticky.

For the Goat Cheese and Walnut Filling

Goat cheese: Creamy goat cheese adds a tangy, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the walnuts.
Chopped walnuts: Toasted walnuts for a crunchy, nutty element.
Heavy cream: Heavy cream gives the filling a smooth, rich texture.
Eggs: Eggs bind the filling together and provide structure.
Fresh thyme: Thyme adds a savory, herbaceous note to the filling.
Salt and pepper: To season the filling.

For Garnishing

Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley to garnish the tarts and add a touch of color.
Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a hint of sweetness to balance the richness of the goat cheese.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tart Crust

In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and salt.
Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and press it into tart pans. Prick the bottom of the tart crust with a fork and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Goat Cheese and Walnut Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the goat cheese, heavy cream, eggs, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Stir in the chopped walnuts.

Step 3: Assemble the Tarts

Once the tart crusts are baked and cooled, fill each tart shell with the goat cheese and walnut mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once the tarts are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly.
Drizzle a small amount of honey on top of each tart and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (per tart)

Servings: 6
Calories: 220
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 7g

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or feta, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Q2: Can I make the tart crust ahead of time?
A2: Yes, the tart crust can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

Q3: How can I make these tarts gluten-free?
A3: You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make a gluten-free tart crust.

Q4: Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
A4: Yes, you can add ingredients like caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or spinach for extra flavor.

Q5: How long can I store these tarts?
A5: The tarts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven before serving.

Q6: Can I freeze these tarts?
A6: Yes, you can freeze the tarts after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Q7: Can I make mini tarts?
A7: Yes, you can use a mini tart pan or muffin tin to make smaller versions of these tarts. Just reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

Q8: How can I make these tarts more savory?
A8: You can increase the amount of thyme or add other herbs like rosemary or sage for a more savory flavor.

Q9: Can I prepare these tarts in advance?
A9: Yes, you can prepare the tarts up to a day in advance. Simply bake, cool, and store them in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.

Q10: How can I serve these tarts for a special occasion?
A10: These tarts are perfect for serving at parties or holiday gatherings. Serve them as appetizers or part of a larger spread with olives, cured meats, and a selection of cheeses.

Enjoy your Goat Cheese and Walnut Tarts as a sophisticated and delicious appetizer or snack for any occasion!