Tasty Prosciutto Wrapped Figs With Goat Cheese (4-Ingredient Only Appetizer!)

Prosciutto Wrapped Figs are a simple and impressive appetizer, ideal for a tasty dinner with family or friends or to serve at a buffet or a brunch: the combination of the sweetness of the figs and the saltiness of the raw ham creates a truly delicious contrast. To make them, the figs will be cut in half, stuffed with goat cheese and wrapped in prosciutto; these delicious morsels will be placed on a baking sheet, sprinkled with spicy honey and cooked in the oven for about ten minutes.

What are Prosciutto Wrapped Figs?

The pairing of prosciutto and figs dates back to ancient Mediterranean cultures, where figs were a staple fruit, and cured meats were a necessity for preservation. The sweet and savory combination became a culinary tradition in Italian cuisine, symbolizing a balance of flavors and textures. Prosciutto, a dry-cured ham with a rich history in Italy, complements the natural sweetness of figs perfectly. This particular recipe, featuring goat cheese and honey, is a modern twist on the classic pairing. The addition of creamy goat cheese adds a tangy contrast, while honey enhances the figs' sweetness, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. This dish, which involves baking the wrapped figs to meld the flavors, showcases the timeless appeal of combining simple, high-quality ingredients in a contemporary presentation.

Tips for The Best Prosciutto Wrapped Figs

• Select figs that are plump and slightly soft to the touch. They should be ripe but not overly mushy, as overly soft figs can become too soggy when baked.
• Use thinly sliced, high-quality prosciutto for the best flavor and texture. The prosciutto should wrap easily around the figs without tearing.
• Opt for a soft, creamy goat cheese that will melt slightly when baked. This will add a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet figs and salty prosciutto.
• Keep an eye on the figs while baking. You want them to be warmed through and the prosciutto to be slightly crisp, but avoid over-baking to prevent the figs from becoming too soft.
• Serve the figs warm, straight from the oven, for the best texture and flavor. The combination of warm figs, melted goat cheese, and crispy prosciutto is at its peak right after baking.

What Other Cheese Can I Use Instead of Goat Cheese

Instead of goat cheese, you can use cream cheese, blue cheese, or brie. Each of these cheeses offers a different flavor profile: cream cheese is mild and creamy, blue cheese provides a bold and tangy taste, and brie adds a rich, buttery flavor. Choose based on your preference for a milder or more pronounced flavor.

Can I Substitute the Figs With Anything Else?

Yes, you can substitute figs with other fruits like dates, apricots, or pears. These fruits offer a similar sweetness and texture, making them great alternatives in this recipe. Dates provide a rich, caramel-like sweetness, apricots add a tangy flavor, and pears offer a juicy and subtle sweetness.

Can I Make These in The Air Fryer Instead?

Yes, of course! Preheat the air fryer to 180°C/350°F, place the wrapped figs in the basket, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the cheese is slightly melted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as air fryers can cook quickly.

Do I Really Need to Use Spicy Honey?

No, you don't need to use spicy honey. While spicy honey adds a kick of heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness and saltiness of the dish, you can use regular honey if you prefer a milder flavor. Alternatively, you can add a touch of chili flakes to regular honey if you want a hint of spice without buying spicy honey.

How Can I Top These Prosciutto Wrapped Figs?

Instead of honey, you can top the prosciutto-wrapped figs with balsamic glaze, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of brown sugar. Balsamic glaze adds a tangy-sweet complexity, maple syrup offers a rich sweetness, and brown sugar can caramelize during baking, adding a subtle crunch and depth of flavor.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes, these can be made ahead of time. Assemble the figs with goat cheese and prosciutto, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Wait to brush them with honey or your chosen topping and bake them just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and the prosciutto remains crispy.

Can I Freeze These?

No, it's not recommended to freeze these prosciutto-wrapped figs. Freezing can alter the texture of the figs, making them mushy, and affect the quality of the prosciutto and cheese. It's best to prepare and enjoy them fresh for optimal taste and texture.

How to Store Prosciutto Wrapped Figs

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C/350°F for a few minutes until warmed through, or enjoy them cold. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the prosciutto chewy.

How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Figs

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

Cut the fresh figs in half.

Top each half with a dollop of goat cheese.

Carefully wrap a slice of prosciutto around each fig.

Place them on top of an oven pan lined with baking paper. Then, brush each fig with a bit of spicy honey.

Bake for about 10 minutes, and before serving, top with a bit more spicy honey.

Enjoy while they're still warm!