Festive Goat Cheese Recipes

FESTIVE GOAT CHEESE

Steps:

• Put the packages of goat cheese in the freezer to harden slightly, about 15 minutes.
• Spread the dill out on a cutting board to dry for a few minutes. Mix together the cranberries and pistachios on another part of the cutting board.
• Remove the cheese logs from the freezer and take them out of the package. Gently roll one log over the dill, coating it almost completely. Do the same with the second log, rolling it in the cranberries and pistachios. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and chill until time to serve.
• Serve with crackers.

WHIPPED GOAT CHEESE WITH WARM CANDIED BACON AND DATES

Steps:

• 1. Preheat the oven to 400° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.2. On the baking sheet, toss together the bacon, 1 tablespoon rosemary, the brown sugar, 1 teaspoon honey, and the cayenne. Arrange in an even layer. Tear the dates and scatter them around the bacon. Bake 8-10 minutes, until the bacon is crisping.3. Meanwhile, combine the goat cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a food processor and pulse until smooth and creamy. The goat cheese mix can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, but bring to room temp before serving. 4. In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup honey, 1 tablespoon rosemary, a pinch of cayenne - to taste, and a pinch of salt. 5. Spoon the goat cheese into a serving bowl and then top with the warm bacon and dates. Drizzle over a little the rosemary honey. Serve with bread or crackers.