Description

This Warm Goat Cheese Dip combines creamy goat cheese and cream cheese with aromatic herbs and garlic, baked to perfection for a rich and comforting appetizer. Perfectly paired with baguette slices, crackers, and fresh crudités, this versatile dip is enhanced with optional touches of honey and toasted walnuts for a delightful flavor contrast.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

4 ounces goat cheese, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
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

Toppings and Serving

2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Baguette slices, for serving
Crackers, for serving
Crudités (carrots, celery, cucumber), for serving
Honey, for drizzling (optional)
Toasted walnuts, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Soften the Cheeses: Ensure both the goat cheese and cream cheese are softened to room temperature to facilitate easy mixing and a smooth texture.
Combine the Cheeses: In a medium bowl, blend the softened goat cheese and cream cheese together using a fork or hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Add the Heavy Cream: Gradually pour in the heavy cream, mixing gently until the cream is fully incorporated and the dip has a creamy consistency.
Incorporate the Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, chopped rosemary, and red pepper flakes if using, for a flavorful kick.
Season to Perfection: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing well to evenly distribute the seasoning throughout the dip.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to reach the correct temperature for baking.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a small oven-safe baking dish with olive oil to prevent the dip from sticking.
Transfer the Mixture: Pour the blended cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top of the dip to enhance richness and create a beautiful finish.
Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the dip is hot, bubbly around the edges, and lightly golden on top.
Broiling for Extra Color (Optional): For a more pronounced golden brown top, broil the dip for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Remove from Oven: Carefully take the dip out of the oven and allow it to cool slightly for a few minutes as it will be very hot.
Garnish Generously: Sprinkle toasted walnuts over the top of the dip for added texture and flavor if desired.
Drizzle with Honey (Optional): Add a light drizzle of honey to introduce a subtle sweetness that complements the tangy cheese.
Serve Immediately: Serve the warm goat cheese dip right away with baguette slices, crackers, and fresh crudités for dipping.

Notes

For softer mixing, remove cheeses from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before preparation.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level or omit entirely for a milder dip.
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted at 1/3 the quantity.
To toast walnuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring frequently.
This dip is best served warm; reheat gently in the oven if needed.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: goat cheese dip, warm dip, creamy appetizer, herb cheese dip, baked cheese dip, easy party recipe