When you want an appetizer that looks effortlessly sophisticated yet comes together with minimal effort, these Mustard-Onion Jam Crackers with Figs deliver gourmet flavor in every elegant bite. Imagine crispy crackers topped with sweet, tangy onion jam infused with whole grain mustard, layered with creamy cheese, fresh fig slices, and a drizzle of honey that brings everything together in perfect harmony. This combination of sweet, savory, tangy, and creamy creates layers of complex flavor that taste like they came from an upscale wine bar. Whether you’re hosting a wine and cheese night, putting together a charcuterie board, celebrating the holidays, or simply want an impressive appetizer that requires no cooking, these crackers prove that sometimes the best entertaining is all about thoughtful assembly of quality ingredients. The contrast of textures and flavors makes each bite interesting and memorable, and the beautiful presentation ensures they’ll be Instagram-ready before they disappear from the platter.
Serving Quantity: 8 servings (about 24 crackers)
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes for jam, no additional cooking)
Nutritional Information per serving:
1. Calories: 245
2. Protein: 8g
3. Carbohydrates: 32g
4. Fat: 10g
5. Fiber: 3g
6. Sugar: 16g
7. Sodium: 385mg
Ingredients You Need:
For the Mustard-Onion Jam:
1. 3 large onions, thinly sliced
2. 2 tablespoons butter
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
5. 1/4 cup brown sugar
6. 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
7. 2 tablespoons red wine (optional)
8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
9. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10. Fresh thyme leaves
For Assembly:
11. 24 crackers (water crackers, wheat crackers, or crostini)
12. 8 ounces soft cheese (goat cheese, brie, or cream cheese)
13. 6 fresh figs, sliced into rounds
14. 1/4 cup honey
15. Fresh thyme for garnish
16. Cracked black pepper
17. Flaky sea salt
18. Toasted walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
Start the Onion Jam
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the thinly sliced onions. Stir to coat all the onions in the fat. The pan will look very full at first, but the onions will cook down significantly. Season with salt and pepper.
Caramelize the Onions
Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 20 to 25 minutes. The onions will slowly soften, reduce in volume, and turn a deep golden brown. This caramelization process is what creates the sweet, complex flavor. Be patient and don’t rush this step by turning up the heat, which would burn them rather than caramelize them. The onions should be very soft and jammy.
Add Flavorings
Once the onions are deeply caramelized, add the whole grain mustard, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and red wine if using. Stir everything together thoroughly. The liquid will bubble and the sugar will dissolve. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. The liquid should reduce and the onions should look glossy and thick.
Add Fresh Herbs
Stir in fresh thyme leaves and remove from heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed. The jam should taste sweet, tangy, and savory all at once with a pleasant mustard bite. Let it cool to room temperature. The jam will thicken more as it cools. This can be made up to a week ahead and stored refrigerated.
Prepare the Base
While the onion jam cools, arrange your crackers on a large serving board or platter. Choose sturdy crackers that can support the toppings without breaking. Water crackers, wheat crackers, or toasted baguette slices all work beautifully. Arrange them in neat rows or in an attractive scattered pattern.
Spread the Cheese
Take your cheese out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before assembling so it softens and spreads easily. If using goat cheese or cream cheese, spread about a teaspoon on each cracker using a knife or small spatula. If using brie, slice it thinly and place a piece on each cracker. The cheese provides a creamy base that balances the sweet onion jam.
Add Onion Jam
Spoon about a teaspoon of the cooled mustard-onion jam on top of the cheese on each cracker. The jam should be visible and generous, not just a tiny dollop. This is the star ingredient that makes these crackers special, so don’t be stingy with it.
Prepare the Figs
Wash the fresh figs gently and pat them dry. Remove the stem end and slice each fig into thin rounds, about a quarter inch thick. Fresh figs are seasonal, but when available, they add incredible sweetness and beautiful color. If fresh figs aren’t available, dried figs that have been soaked in warm water and sliced also work well.
Top with Figs
Place one or two slices of fresh fig on top of the onion jam on each cracker. The figs should sit prominently on top, showing off their beautiful purple exterior and pink interior. Arrange them artfully so each cracker looks appealing.
Drizzle with Honey
Using a spoon or honey dipper, drizzle a small amount of honey over each assembled cracker. The honey adds extra sweetness and creates a gorgeous glossy finish. It also helps all the components stick together. Don’t use too much or everything will be too sweet, just a light drizzle.
Add Final Touches
Sprinkle each cracker with a few fresh thyme leaves for herbal aroma and visual appeal. Add a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance all the flavors. Finish with a light grinding of fresh cracked black pepper. If using nuts, sprinkle a few chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch and richness.
Arrange and Serve
Step back and assess your platter. The crackers should look abundant and inviting with beautiful colors from the purple figs, golden onion jam, and white cheese. Garnish the platter itself with extra fig slices, fresh thyme sprigs, and perhaps a small bowl of extra honey for drizzling. Serve immediately at room temperature.
Helpful Tips for Success:
1. The onion jam can be made up to a week ahead and stored refrigerated.
2. Caramelize the onions slowly over medium heat for the best sweet flavor.
3. Use good quality whole grain mustard for texture and authentic flavor.
4. Fresh figs are seasonal but when available, they’re worth seeking out.
5. Dried figs soaked in warm water work as a substitute if fresh aren’t available.
6. Let cheese come to room temperature for easier spreading and better flavor.
7. Assemble the crackers within an hour of serving so they stay crispy.
8. The onion jam is also incredible on burgers, sandwiches, or with roasted meats.
9. Try different cheeses like blue cheese, aged cheddar, or triple cream brie.
10. Toast your own baguette slices for homemade crostini base.
11. Add prosciutto or salami to make these more substantial.
12. The jam should be jammy and thick, not watery or soupy.
13. These pair beautifully with red wine, port, or champagne.
14. Make a double batch of onion jam, it keeps well and has many uses.
15. For a vegan version, use cashew cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.
