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This rich baked feta dip brings together creamy, tangy cheese with a sweet nutty topping that never fails at gatherings. I started serving this as a fast appetizer for friends coming over on weeknights and now it is in constant rotation thanks to its ease and crowd-pleasing flavor.
When I first made this for a holiday brunch nobody could stop raving about it and there were hardly any leftovers to take home.
Ingredients
- Block feta cheese: brings vibrant tang and salty flavor to form the dip base. Look for sheep’s milk feta in brine for ultra creamy and more authentic taste
- Avocado oil: gives a mellow richness and helps the cheese bake up smooth. Choose a mild variety for the best result
- Dried oregano or parsley: infuses aromatic notes and layers in another savory earthy dimension. Buy dried herbs that still carry strong scent and color
- Black pepper: delivers just enough kick to offset the sweetness of the preserves
- Fig preserves: offer jammy sweetness and pair beautifully with cheese. Look for preserves that list figs first in the ingredients for full flavor
- Raw pecans: bring crunch and warmth once toasted. Pick whole raw pecans and chop them yourself so they stay fresh and toasty
- Fresh thyme: lifts the whole appetizer with a burst of herbal freshness. Choose sprigs that look bright and perky if you are adding this garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toast the Pecans:
- Place raw pecans in a small skillet. Warm them over medium heat for one to three minutes stirring often until they are fragrant and golden. Transfer immediately to a small bowl to prevent burning
- Mix Preserves and Nuts:
- Stir together the toasted pecans and fig preserves so every nut gets coated with sticky jam. Set aside for topping later
- Prepare and Season Feta:
- Unwrap the blocks of feta and arrange gently in a small oven-safe dish. Drizzle with avocado oil so the cheese stays moist then sprinkle the top with dried oregano and black pepper for flavor
- Bake the Feta:
- Put the seasoned feta in a 400 degree oven and let it bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese is golden and the edges look slightly bubbling. Take the dish out of the oven carefully
- Stir and Top the Feta:
- Lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees. Carefully spoon and stir the hot baked feta right in the baking dish until creamy and spreadable. Top evenly with the fig pecan mixture
- Finish the Dip:
- Return the baking dish to the oven and let everything heat through for twelve to seventeen minutes more at 350 degrees until the topping is bubbling and fragrant and the cheese is fully creamy. Sprinkle with fresh thyme if using
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the hot dish using oven mitts. Let your guests know the dish is hot. Serve right away with slices of toasted baguette pita bread or your favorite crackers
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I always look forward to that first bite with the warm gooey cheese and sweet nutty topping. One year my sister made this for our family reunion and now it is tradition at every gathering.
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at low heat until creamy again. The topping may become a bit sticky but the taste is still wonderful for snacking or sandwich spreads.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have fig preserves try apricot cherry or even a tart raspberry jam for a different twist. Feta can be swapped for creamy goat cheese though the flavor will be milder. For a nut-free option use roasted pumpkin seeds or skip the nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve right out of the warm baking dish for rustic sharing. Pair with thin crostini or pita chips for texture. For a fresh touch add a platter of sliced cucumbers or bell peppers on the side.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
You can try substituting another firm, salty cheese such as goat cheese or ricotta salata for a different texture and flavor profile.
- → What types of preserves work well with feta?
Fig preserves are classic, but apricot, plum, or peach work beautifully too. Experiment with your favorite flavors to tailor the dish.
- → How can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
Prepare the components in advance—toast the pecans and assemble the fig mixture. Just before serving, bake the feta and combine with the topping for best results.
- → What breads or crackers pair best with this dish?
Toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or sturdy crackers all make great accompaniments for scooping up the creamy dip.
- → Can I add other herbs for more flavor?
Absolutely. In addition to thyme, fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can provide extra aroma and depth.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you choose feta made without animal rennet and verify your preserves are gelatin-free, it's vegetarian-friendly.