Quick Whipped Herb & Garlic Goat Cheese Spread Recipe

This creamy, whipped herb and garlic goat cheese spread is the ultimate fast-and-fancy appetizer

Requiring minimal ingredients and prep time, it’s perfect to whip for guests when you want something quick and easy.

Quick and easy herb & garlic goat cheese spread

I love herbaceous appetizer like my Marinated Mozzarella Balls with Garlic, Lemon & Herbs but this goat cheese spread recipe is even more versatile! With fresh herbs, bright lemon flavors and creamy goat cheese, this versatile goat cheese spread is perfect as an appetizer and so much more.

Why you’ll love this quick recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You only need 10 simple ingredients for this goat cheese spread.
• Quick: You can whip up this recipe in just 10 minutes!
• Versatile: Swap in/out your favourite fresh herbs and other toppings for different flavor combinations.

Ingredients needed: goat cheese, fresh herbs, garlic, and other essentials

Goat Cheese: plain goat cheese, room temperature

Fresh Herbs: fresh garlic, chives, parsley, dill

Essentials: extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice (fresh is always best!), lemon zest, kosher salt and ground pepper

Tools: food processor, spatula, lemon zester, knife for chopping herbs, shallow bowl for serving   

Instructions for whipping the goat cheese spread

1. Add room temperature goat cheese, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, pepper, lemon juice and lemon zest to a food processor and process until smooth, scraping down the sides of the food processor as needed. 
2. Alternatively, if you don’t have a food processor, mix the above ingredients in a large bowl with a fork until well incorporated and smooth.
3. If serving as an appetizer, spread the goat cheese in a shallow bowl and drizzle with a little bit of olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs before serving. 

Tips for achieving the perfect creamy texture

Soften the Goat Cheese: Make sure your goat cheese is at room temperature before starting this goat cheese spread recipe. This is key to a smooth, creamy dreamy texture.

Press the Garlic: Pass the fresh garlic through a garlic press before adding to the mixture or add your peeled clove to the food processor first and pulse until finely minced.

Process Until Smooth: Blend on high for 45–60 seconds. Stop halfway through to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.

Adjust Consistency: If the mixture seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water or a splash of extra virgin olive oil. 

Serving suggestions: crackers, veggies, bread, and more

• When serving as an appetizer from the fridge, make sure to remove from the fridge at least 30 minutes before serving so the goat cheese becomes spreadable again.
• If you have a larger group coming over, simply double the recipe on one serving dish or make two plates – it’s totally up to you.
• Serving suggestions:
  • Serve as an appetizer with crostini, pita chips, crackers and/or fresh vegetables.
  • Use as a spread for bagels or sandwiches, especially delicious on a turkey sandwich or wrap.
  • Toss the goat cheese spread with fresh cooked pasta and reserved pasta water for a quick pasta dish, topped off with fresh herbs.
• Pair with a refreshing cocktail; my peach and basil white wine spritzer will complement this dish perfectly in the Spring and Summer.

Variations and additions to customize this goat cheese spread recipe

While the garlic provides a savoury base, the fresh herbs add brightness and depth. You can use one or a combination of these favourites: 

• Thyme: Offers a mild floral flavour that complements the garlic.
• Basil or Mint: Perfect for a more summer-forward, Mediterranean feel.
• Rosemary: Substitute for the chives (in moderation) for an earthy flavour, especially during Fall and Winter.

Take your spread from a simple snack to a show-stopping appie with these additions

• Sweet: Drizzle with honey, topping with dried apricots, dates, cherries, or pomegranate seeds, adding a chewy texture and fruity punch.
• Savory: Add a crunch with chopped pistachios, walnuts, or almonds, toasting them first. 
• Spicy: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, or drizzle with hot honey for some heat.
• Salty: For a saltier version, try adding crispy prosciutto or bacon!

 Storage tips to keep the spread fresh longer

• Prep: You can fully assemble the spread up to 24 to 48 hours in advance, perfect for hosting prep. If making ahead, wait to add the fresh herbs and olive oil drizzle until right before you serve. 
• Store: Keep it in an airtight container or a serving dish tightly covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator.
• Serve: Pull the spread out of the fridge at least 20–30 minutes before serving. Letting it come to room temperature ensures it is perfectly soft and easy to spread. 

FAQs

More quick appetizers to make from the blog

• Sun-Dried Tomato & Herb Marinated Goat Cheese Dip
• Quick Whipped Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey Appetizer
• Quick and Easy Boursin Bruschetta Dip Appetizer