1recipeGougèresmade without pancetta and thyme (30 gougeres total)
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
8ouncesfresh goat cheese (aka chèvre)or cream cheese at room temperature
60fresh mint leaves
Instructions
Make The Date Spread: Combine nuts, dates, water, lemon juice or orange juice in a small saucepan and cook until dates are soft, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper and stir to combine.Either leave as is, or, if you want a smoother spread, place it in a mini food processor and process until smooth and even. Cool completely.TIP: Date paste can be made up to 2 days ahead. Store refrigerated in an airtight container and bring to room temperature before using.
Assemble The Tea Sandwiches: Slice all the gougères in half so that the can be used like sandwiches. Spread a spoon full of each the date paste and room temperature goat cheese or cream cheese on all the sandwiches. Pile a few mint leaves onto each gougère, close with a toothpick, and serve.