Name: Goat Cheese Wreath Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 10.5-ounce logs fresh goat cheese, at room temperature; 1 cup whole-milk ricotta; 2 tsp thyme leaves, finely chopped; 1 tsp finely grated orange zest; Small thyme sprigs (or rosemary sprigs); Dried cranberries; Additional orange zest, for decorating; Honey, for drizzling (optional); Crackers or sliced baguette

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Introduction

This Goat Cheese “Wreath” is a festive and creamy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Blending fresh goat cheese with ricotta and bright flavors of thyme and orange zest, it’s both beautiful and delicious. Decorated with dried cranberries and herbs, it makes an impressive centerpiece for your appetizer spread.

A wooden board on a white marbled surface holds a colorful mix of food items arranged in layers. In the center-left is a white cheese ring topped with sprigs of rosemary, red berries, and drizzled with honey, its texture soft and creamy. To the right of it are thin slices of red salami folded and placed in a wave-like pattern. Above the salami, there is another white round cheese with a red star design made from jam spread on its surface. Clusters of dark purple and red grapes are scattered around the board, along with halved fresh figs displaying their deep red insides. Several red apple slices are placed around the edges, bright and crisp-looking. A small white dish with honeycomb is positioned on a green plate near the bottom right, the honeycomb glistening golden. At the top, there are tan sesame crackers and a clear amber glass bowl filled with dark olives. The whole setting lies on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 10.5-ounce logs fresh goat cheese, at room temperature
1 cup whole-milk ricotta
2 tsp. thyme leaves, finely chopped, plus small thyme sprigs (or rosemary sprigs) for decorating
1 tsp. finely grated orange zest, plus more zest for decorating
Dried cranberries, for decorating
Honey, for drizzling
Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a stand mixer, beat the goat cheese and ricotta on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the chopped thyme and orange zest, then beat again until well incorporated.
Step 2: Line a Bundt or tube pan with plastic wrap. Spoon the cheese mixture in dollops into the pan. Using damp hands, shape and press the mixture evenly into a ring. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days.
Step 3: When ready to serve, unwrap the plastic and carefully invert the cheese ring onto a serving plate. Peel off the remaining plastic wrap and discard. Decorate the wreath with dried cranberries and thyme sprigs to resemble holly. Sprinkle with additional orange zest and drizzle with honey if desired. Serve with crackers or sliced baguette.

Tips & Variations

Use rosemary sprigs instead of thyme for a slightly different herbal aroma and look.
If you don’t have a Bundt pan, shape the wreath freehand on a plate using plastic wrap to help form the shape.
For extra texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts on top before serving.

Storage

Store the cheese wreath tightly covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and enjoyed within the same time frame. Drizzle with honey just before serving to maintain freshness.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a woman's hand holding a round cracker topped with a layer of soft white cheese and a generous dollop of bright red jam. Below the cracker, there is a white plate with several stacked, golden-brown square crackers arranged in a neat pile. To the left of the crackers, two slices of rolled deli meat with a pinkish hue lie on the white plate, next to some fresh rosemary sprigs. In the blurry background, more food items such as cheese cubes and nuts are slightly visible, all set against a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cheese wreath ahead of time?

Yes, it can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated and covered until ready to serve.

What can I serve with this goat cheese wreath?

This cheese wreath pairs wonderfully with crackers, sliced baguette, and fresh fruit like apple or pear slices. It’s also great alongside a variety of charcuterie items.