Ingredients:

  • 12 fresh figs (approx. 1 lb / 450g)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter
  • 4 oz soft goat cheese
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 pinch flaky sea salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme, minced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the figs and pat them completely dry.
  3. Using a small paring knife, slice a cross-shaped 'X' into the top of each fig, cutting about halfway down toward the base, and gently press the sides inward to create a pocket.
  4. In a small bowl, whip the goat cheese with lemon zest and sea salt until smooth.
  5. Scoop about 1 heaping teaspoon of the cheese mixture into the center of each fig.
  6. Drizzle melted butter and honey evenly over the tops of the figs.
  7. Bake for 8–12 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the fig edges are a deep mahogany color.
  8. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped walnuts and minced thyme.
  9. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze across the platter and serve warm.