20-Minute Fig and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Crispy phyllo shells filled with tangy goat cheese, sweet fig preserves, and savory prosciutto, finished with fresh thyme. These tartlets bake up in just 10 minutes, making them a quick, elegant appetizer for parties or everyday snacking.
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Small spoon (for filling)
- 1 Knife (for slicing prosciutto)
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 package phyllo shells 15 shells
- 4 ounces soft goat cheese chèvre
- ¼ cup fig preserves
- 4 slices prosciutto
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven for Baking: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Allowing the oven to fully preheat is important so that the phyllo shells bake evenly and develop a crisp, golden finish. Preheating also ensures the cheese softens and the fig preserves warm through without overcooking the delicate shells.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Take out a standard baking sheet and line it with parchment paper (optional, but it helps with cleanup and prevents sticking). Arrange all of the phyllo shells in a single layer, leaving a little bit of space between each one so they bake evenly. If the shells are packaged in a tray, carefully separate them to avoid breakage.
- Slice the Prosciutto into Portions: Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, slice each slice of prosciutto into four smaller pieces. The pieces should be bite-sized, small enough to fit neatly inside each phyllo shell without overwhelming the other ingredients. If you prefer a rustic look, you can also gently tear the prosciutto into pieces with your hands, which adds a more natural texture.
- Fill the Shells with Goat Cheese: Spoon about ½ teaspoon of soft goat cheese into the base of each phyllo shell. Use the back of the spoon to gently press the cheese down so it fills the shell without spilling over the edges. This creamy base adds tanginess and provides a cushion for the sweet fig preserves. For easier filling, let the goat cheese soften at room temperature for a few minutes before using.
- Add the Sweet Fig Preserves: Next, spoon about ¼ teaspoon of fig preserves directly over the goat cheese layer in each shell. The preserves should lightly cover the cheese without overflowing. This step gives the tartlets a naturally sweet, jammy flavor that balances beautifully with the tangy cheese and savory prosciutto. If the preserves are thick, stir them first to loosen for easier spooning.
- Layer with Prosciutto: Take one prepared piece of prosciutto and place it gently on top of the fig preserves in each shell. Tuck the edges inside the shell or let them stick out slightly for a decorative, rustic appearance. The saltiness of the prosciutto adds contrast to the sweetness of the figs, creating a perfect sweet-and-savory balance in every bite.
- Bake Until Crispy and Warm: Place the baking sheet on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the phyllo shells are lightly golden and crisp, the goat cheese softens, and the fig preserves begin to bubble slightly. Keep a close eye toward the end of baking to prevent the shells from over-browning, as phyllo can burn quickly.
- Add Fresh Thyme Garnish: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the tartlets to cool for 1–2 minutes. While still warm, sprinkle each tartlet with 3–4 fresh thyme leaves. The thyme adds a fragrant, earthy note that brightens the flavors and makes the tartlets look more elegant when served.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the finished tartlets to a serving platter and enjoy them while warm, when the cheese is soft and the shells are crisp. These are best eaten fresh from the oven, but they can also be reheated gently if made ahead. Serve them as an appetizer for parties, holidays, or casual gatherings where you want something simple yet impressive.
Notes
- Phyllo shells bake quickly, so keep a close eye to prevent over-browning.
- Soft goat cheese spreads easily if brought to room temperature before filling.
- Fig preserves can be swapped with apricot, pear, or even caramelized onion jam.
- Tear prosciutto by hand for a rustic look, or slice neatly for elegance.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for added aroma.
- Best served warm, straight from the oven, for maximum crispness and flavor.
- Can be made vegetarian by omitting prosciutto.
- Works beautifully as a holiday appetizer or wine-pairing bite.
- Tartlets reheat best in the oven rather than the microwave.
- A drizzle of honey adds an extra layer of sweetness.
