Ingredients
Blueberry Sauce
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (can use frozen)
- 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (about ½ a small lemon)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about ½ a small lemon)
- 2 Tablespoons maple syrup (or granulated sugar or honey)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch or tapioca starch
- 1 Tablespoon water
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Cheese
- 10.5 ounce goat cheese log
To Serve
- Crackers, crusty bread, or veggies
Instructions
- Prepare the blueberry sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, maple syrup, and fresh thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the blueberries burst and release their juices.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering blueberry mixture and increase the heat slightly if needed to help it thicken. Continue cooking until the sauce coats the back of a spoon and holds together well. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the sauce to cool for 15 minutes.
- Assemble the goat cheese log: Lay out a square piece of plastic wrap on a clean surface. Spoon one-third of the cooled blueberry sauce onto the plastic wrap into a log shape similar in size to the goat cheese. Place the goat cheese log on top of the sauce. Spoon the remaining blueberry sauce over the goat cheese, letting it drip down the sides and ends.
- Wrap and chill: Use the plastic wrap to carefully roll the goat cheese log, fully encasing it in the blueberry sauce. Tuck in the ends and smooth the sauce evenly around the cheese. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for best flavor and firmness.
- Serve: When ready to serve, unwrap the cheese log from the plastic wrap carefully to maintain its shape. Place it on a serving tray and offer with crackers, toasted bread such as crostini, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- You may substitute frozen blueberries if fresh are not available; thaw before using.
- Maple syrup, granulated sugar, or honey can be used to sweeten the blueberry sauce depending on your preference.
- Chilling the goat cheese log overnight enhances flavors and helps the sauce set firmly.
- To prevent the sauce from running too much when serving, ensure you cook and thicken it properly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American