Looking for an appetizer that’s effortlessly elegant and ridiculously delicious? You’ve found it! These savory goat cheese truffles are a flavor explosion in every bite. We’re talking creamy, tangy goat cheese blended with rich mascarpone, salty prosciutto, sweet dried figs, and a hint of bright lemon. Rolled in crunchy, toasted pine nuts, they’re the perfect make-ahead bite for any party, holiday gathering, or sophisticated snack time. Get ready for rave reviews!
Ingredients
• 2 logs goat cheese, 10 oz / 283g total
• 8 ounces / 226g mascarpone cheese
• 6 tablespoons / 45g grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons / 10ml olive oil
• 1 teaspoon / 5ml white balsamic vinegar
• ¾ teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 6 ½ tablespoons / 3 oz / 85g chopped prosciutto
• 5 tablespoons / 2.5 oz / 70g chopped dried figs
• 3 tablespoons / 10g minced fresh parsley
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup / 135g chopped pine nuts
Instructions
1. Directions
2. In a large bowl, combine the goat cheese, mascarpone cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, and lemon zest. Mix with a spatula or electric mixer on low speed until smooth and well-combined.
3. Gently fold in the chopped prosciutto, chopped dried figs, minced parsley, and black pepper until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
4. Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will make it firmer and much easier to handle.
5. Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion the chilled mixture and roll it between your palms to form approximately 36 one-inch balls.
6. Spread the chopped pine nuts on a shallow plate or dish. Roll each cheese ball in the nuts, pressing gently to ensure they are fully coated.
7. Place the finished truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow them to set completely before serving.
Nutritional Information
• Nutrition
• Calories: 82.3 per truffle
• Protein: 3.3g
• Fat: 7.3g
• Note: is an estimate and may vary based on used.
Pro Tips
• Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool completely before chopping. This deepens their flavor significantly.
• Use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon size) for uniform truffles. Briefly dip the scoop in cold water between portions to prevent the cheese mixture from sticking.
• Feel free to swap the pine nuts for chopped pistachios or pecans. You can also substitute the dried figs with chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a different sweet-tart flavor profile.
• These truffles can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQ
Q: How far in advance can I make these goat cheese truffles
A: These truffles are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best flavor and texture, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Q: Can I use different nuts or fruit in this recipe
A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can easily substitute the toasted pine nuts with chopped pistachios or pecans. Instead of dried figs, try using chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a different sweet and tart flavor profile.
Q: Why is my cheese mixture too soft to roll
A: If the cheese mixture is too sticky or soft to handle, it needs to be chilled longer. The recipe requires chilling the mixture for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for firming up the cheese, making it easy to portion and roll into balls.
Q: What is the best way to get uniform truffles
A: For consistently sized truffles, a small cookie scoop (approximately 1 tablespoon) is the best tool. It helps you portion the cheese mixture evenly, ensuring all your truffles are the same size.
