Balsamic-Strawberry Baked Goat Cheese Dip

By MooK

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, cut into 1/4-inch slices
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing and greasing
• 14 ounces goat cheese, at room temperature
• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar (see note above)
• 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 12 ounces strawberries, hulled and diced
• 1/4 cup lightly packed fresh basil leaves, cut into ribbons

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Bake until golden, about 8 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine goat cheese, cream cheese, and honey in a food processor and process until fluffy and smooth. Grease a small (1 quart) baking dish with olive oil and scrape in goat cheese mixture. Using a spoon, smooth goat cheese into an even layer; then use the spoon to create a slight indentation in the center that rises evenly towards the edges (this will help cradle the strawberries later).

In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and sugar over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until vinegar is slightly syrupy and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. Let cool.

Place goat cheese dip in the oven and bake until lightly browned on top, 10-12 minutes.

Stir together strawberries, basil, and balsamic reduction in a small bowl. Spoon berries and any juices on top of the baked goat cheese dip and serve warm with the toasted baguette slices.