Easy Goat Cheese Spread: Perfect for Entertaining!

When you need an appetizer that is both incredibly easy to make and looks impressively elegant, this Whipped Goat Cheese Spread is the perfect solution.1 It's a light, airy, and tangy dip that is perfect for a last-minute get-together, a holiday party, or a simple night in.2 With a touch of honey and a hint of fresh herbs, it's a dish that is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It transforms a humble log of goat cheese into a silky-smooth, spreadable delight. It's a versatile canvas for any flavor you wish, from a sprinkle of fresh herbs to a drizzle of a balsamic glaze. It's a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy.

Whipped Goat Cheese Spread

Yields: 1 ½ cups

Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 8 oz log of goat cheese, softened

  • 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

  • A pinch of salt and black pepper

  • For the Garnish:

    • 1 tablespoon honey

    • A few fresh thyme sprigs

    • Cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Whip the Goat Cheese

  1. Soften Cheese: Make sure your goat cheese is at room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free texture.

  2. Combine: In a food processor or a large bowl with a hand mixer, combine the softened goat cheese, milk or heavy cream, chopped chives, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.

  3. Whip: Process or beat the mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until it is light, airy, and smooth.3 Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

2. Garnish and Serve

  1. Transfer: Transfer the whipped goat cheese to a serving bowl or a shallow dish.

  2. Garnish: Drizzle the honey over the top of the spread. Garnish with a few fresh thyme sprigs and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

  3. Serve: Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices, crackers, fresh vegetables, or fruit.4

Pro-Tips for a Perfect Spread

  • Softened Cheese is Key: Do not skip the step of softening the goat cheese. If it's too cold, it will not whip up properly and will be lumpy.

  • The Right Liquid: You can use either milk or heavy cream. Heavy cream will give you a richer, more decadent spread.

  • Customization: Feel free to change the herbs to your liking. A little bit of fresh rosemary, dill, or basil would all be delicious. You can also add a touch of garlic powder for a savory kick.

  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can make this spread up to 1 day ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, give it a good stir and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften.

  • Serving Suggestions: This spread is a perfect canvas. Try serving it with a fig jam, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or some toasted nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.