1-Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making whipped goat cheese, and it’s key to have everything ready. Start by softening the 8 ounces of goat cheese and 4 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure they blend smoothly. This preparation tip makes the whole process easier and avoids any lumps.

2-Next, place the softened cheeses into a bowl and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot honey along with the leaves from 4 sprigs of thyme. Use a food processor or mixer to blend until the mixture is perfectly smooth, which takes just a few minutes. Once smooth, top it with 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios and 4 pitted, chopped medjool dates for that extra crunch and sweetness.

3-Finally, sprinkle on some optional flaky salt and serve with crackers or bread. If you don’t have a food processor, a hand mixer works well, or even a fork if you’re patient. For a related idea, try incorporating this into an appetizer like the one in this antipasto charcuterie wreath recipe for a festive touch.