Name: Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients: 6 fresh apricots (halved and pitted); 1 tsp olive oil; 4 oz goat cheese (softened); 2 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 tbsp milk or cream (to thin); pinch of salt; 2 tbsp honey; ½ tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish); toasted walnuts or pistachios for topping (optional)

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If you’re searching for a dish that delivers dazzling flavor, elegant simplicity, and a pop of color all at once, Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey is your new secret weapon. Sweet, lightly caramelized apricots meet the tangy richness of whipped goat cheese, while a fragrant drizzle of thyme-infused honey brings it all together in one glorious bite. This Mediterranean-inspired appetizer (or light dessert!) looks like it belongs at a fancy dinner party, but it comes together in just 15 minutes—and I promise, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey plays a starring role, from the juicy fruit to the lush, creamy cheese and aromatic honey. With just a handful of fresh components, this recipe proves that less truly can be more—especially when each flavor shines as brightly as summer sunshine.

Apricots (6 fresh, halved and pitted): Choose ripe but firm apricots for maximum juiciness that holds up on the grill.
Olive Oil (1 tsp): A light brush prevents sticking and encourages perfect golden grill marks.
Goat Cheese (4 oz, softened): Tangy, creamy, and the key to that luxurious whipped filling.
Cream Cheese (2 oz, softened): Adds body and smoothness for the most spreadable, cloud-like texture.
Milk or Cream (1 tbsp): Just enough to loosen the filling to the ideal consistency for piping or spooning.
Honey (2 tbsp): Sweetens and glazes, perfectly offsetting the tart cheese and grilled fruit.
Fresh Thyme Leaves (½ tsp, plus extra for garnish): Earthy, aromatic thyme gives the honey unforgettable character.
Pinch of Salt: A touch of salt balances and lifts every flavor in the dish.
Toasted Walnuts or Pistachios (optional): For crunch, color, and a nutty finishing flourish, sprinkle these on top!

How to Make Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey

Step 1: Grill the Apricots

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the cut side of each apricot half with olive oil—this little step ensures those irresistible grill marks and helps the fruit caramelize beautifully without sticking. Place the apricots cut side down and grill for 2 to 3 minutes, just until you see marks and the fruit softens slightly. You want the apricots to stay tender yet hold their shape. Once done, set them aside to cool slightly while you whip up the creamy filling.

Step 2: Whip the Goat Cheese Filling

In a small bowl or food processor, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, tablespoon of milk or cream, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is pillowy, smooth, and light enough to pipe or spoon onto your apricots. This combo creates a filling that’s tangy without being overpowering, and the cream cheese ensures it’s extra creamy—no need for any fancy equipment, just a quick mix!

Step 3: Make Thyme-Infused Honey

In another small bowl, stir together the honey and fresh thyme leaves (saving a pinch for garnish). This aromatic syrup is your magic touch. The honey’s sweetness brings all the flavors together, while the thyme adds a gentle, garden-fresh note that makes the whole dish feel gourmet.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

To finish these Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey, spoon or pipe the luscious whipped cheese onto each warm apricot half. Drizzle each one generously with your thyme honey. If you love a juicy crunch, go ahead and sprinkle with toasted walnuts or pistachios. Finish with more fresh thyme leaves, then serve warm or at room temperature. Get ready for applause!

How to Serve Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey

Garnishes

Add a final sprinkle of chopped nuts and extra thyme leaves for color and texture, or a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt to kick up the contrasts. A few edible flowers or microgreens can make your Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey look even more spectacular if you’re feeling festive.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a peppery arugula salad, crispy baguette slices, or even a chilled sparkling wine. The sweet-savory profile of Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey makes it feel at home as both a starter alongside cheeses and charcuterie, or as a light finish after a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving each apricot half in individual porcelain spoons for passed hors d’oeuvres, or arrange them on a large platter for a stunning centerpiece. For a whimsical brunch spread, nestle the apricots atop a bed of baby greens or alongside fresh berries to really make those colors pop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey, keep them covered in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 2 days. Layering parchment between rows will help prevent the apricots from sticking together or getting squished.

Freezing

While the assembled dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze extra whipped goat cheese for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and whisk briefly before serving. However, apricots themselves become soft and watery after freezing, so only freeze the cheese mixture.

Reheating

To gently take the chill off refrigerated leftovers, let the apricots sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, which can make the cheese separate and the fruit mushy. These easy steps keep your Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey tasting freshly made every time.

FAQs

Can I use peaches or plums instead of apricots?

Absolutely! Peaches and plums work wonderfully—you’ll just want to adjust grilling time based on their thickness and ripeness. The flavor combination with whipped goat cheese and thyme honey is just as magical.

How do I know when the apricots are ready on the grill?

Look for defined grill marks and a gentle softening of the fruit when you press with tongs. They should hold their shape but feel warmed through and slightly tender for the perfect bite.

What type Appetizer or Dessert

Use a soft, creamy chèvre for the ultimate silky texture in your whipped filling. Avoid aged, crumbly goat cheese, which won’t blend as smoothly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey is naturally gluten-free—just double-check your extras (like bread or store-bought nuts) if gluten is a concern.

Can I make any components ahead of time?

You can blend the whipped goat cheese mixture and stir together the thyme honey a day in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge, and assemble just before serving.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one dish that’ll steal the show at your next gathering, it’s Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey. The blend of textures, flavors, and sheer beauty on the plate is irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try it—don’t be surprised if you end up making it all summer long!

Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 12 halves (6 servings) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

Grilled Apricots with Whipped Goat Cheese & Thyme Honey is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of grilled apricots with creamy whipped goat cheese, fragrant thyme honey, and crunchy nuts. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light dessert for elegant entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

Apricots:

6 fresh apricots (halved and pitted)
1 tsp olive oil

Whipped Goat Cheese:

4 oz goat cheese (softened)
2 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 tbsp milk or cream (to thin)
pinch of salt

Thyme Honey:

2 tbsp honey
½ tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)

Additional:

toasted walnuts or pistachios for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill the Apricots: Brush apricot halves with olive oil and grill cut-side down for 2–3 minutes until grill marks form. Remove and let cool slightly.
Prepare Whipped Goat Cheese: Blend goat cheese, cream cheese, milk or cream, and salt until smooth and whipped.
Make Thyme Honey: Combine honey and fresh thyme leaves in a bowl.
Assemble: Spoon or pipe whipped goat cheese onto each grilled apricot half. Drizzle with thyme honey, top with nuts, and garnish with thyme.
Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature.