This appetizer offers layers of texture and flavor—crunchy, creamy, sweet, tangy, and savory—all in one bite. It’s visually striking and tastes even better than it looks. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this cheese course will impress.
We love it with a chilled glass of Lion Tamer White Blend
Ingredients
VANILLA BEAN HONEY
1/2 cup honey
1 split vanilla bean
SPICED PEAR COMPOTE
3 Bartlett pears, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2” pieces
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg (fresh if you can)
1/8 tsp. ground clove
1/8 tsp. ground ginger
2-3 Tbsp. lemon juice
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
Salt, as needed
MACADAMIA CRUSTED GOAT CHEESE
3/4-1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
Fresh goat cheese, portioned into 1 oz. logs
GARNISH (Optional)
Nasturtium flower petals, or other edible flowers
Preparation
Make the Vanilla Bean Honey
1. In a small bowl, warm the honey in a microwave for 45 seconds.
2. Then, add the vanilla bean and infuse the honey at room temperature for 30 minutes to overnight.
While the honey infuses…
Prepare the Spiced Pear Compote
1. In a medium-sized sauce pot, combine the chopped pears, sugar, spices, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. Then, place over medium-high heat and bring to a low simmer. Cover and cook the pears for approximately 20 minutes until the pears are soft and tender.
3. Remove lid and cook 5 – 10 minutes more, while stirring, until the liquid has reduced to a thick syrup. Remove from heat and let cool.
Prepare the Macadamia Crusted Goat Cheese
1. Place chopped nuts on the bottom of a shallow pan or standard pie plate.
2. Next, roll the goat cheese logs in the nuts, pressing slightly so the nuts adhere to the cheese.
Assemble & Serve
1. Place spoonfuls of the spiced pear compote on a serving plate.
2. Top the compote with a log of macadamia crusted goat cheese.
3. Finally, drizzle with vanilla bean honey and decorate with edible flowers.
Wine Pairing
The tangy richness of goat cheese and the warm spices in a pear compote work well with a bright white blend—something aromatic and acidic. We reach for a glass of our Lion Tamer White Blend. The honeyed finish of the wine mirrors the vanilla honey drizzle for a perfectly harmonized pairing.
Tips From The Kitchen
Make-Ahead Friendly: The honey, compote, and even the macadamia crusting of the goat cheese can all be prepared a day ahead.
Nut Substitution: Try pistachios or hazelnuts if macadamias aren’t available.
Goat Cheese Texture: Slightly chill the goat cheese before rolling to help the nuts stick.
Serving Temperature: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture.