These Brie and cranberry crostini are a delicious snack that’s easy to make! The creamy Brie paired with sweet cranberry makes for a tasty bite. Perfect for gatherings!
Whenever I make these, they vanish quickly! You can’t beat the mix of flavors and crunch. I love serving them warm, and trust me, everyone goes back for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or French Bread: A fresh baguette adds a nice crunch, but you can swap it for any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough. Just keep in mind that different breads can change the texture a bit!
Brie Cheese: Brie is a must for its creamy texture, but if you’re not a fan, creamy goat cheese or even camembert can be great alternatives. Both have unique flavors that work well with cranberry.
Cranberry Sauce: Store-bought cranberry sauce is convenient, but homemade feels extra special. If you don’t have cranberry sauce, try using a fruit chutney or even fig jam for a sweet contrast.
Fresh Rosemary: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor. If you can’t find rosemary, consider using thyme or parsley for a different yet delicious twist. Dried herbs can work too, but use less since they’re stronger.
How Do I Get the Perfect Toasted Bread?
Toasting your bread correctly is key! Remember, you want it crispy enough to hold the toppings without getting soggy. Follow these tips for best results:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature—375°F (190°C) is perfect.
- Lightly brush the bread with olive oil for flavor and a beautiful golden color.
- Lay the slices out evenly on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overlapping to get that crunchy texture.
- Keep an eye on them; 8 minutes usually does the trick, but every oven is a bit different, so watch for a golden-brown color.
- If you like extra crunch, broil them for the last minute, but don’t walk away—it can burn quickly!
Brie and Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette or French bread, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (preferably whole berry)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Optional: 1 small shallot, minced (for cranberry topping)
- Optional: 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (to sweeten cranberry sauce if homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll be enjoying these delicious crostini in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your bread gets nice and crispy while baking.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Arrange your sliced bread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Take olive oil and lightly brush each slice. This will help them toast beautifully and add delicious flavor!
3. Toast the Bread:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread slices for about 8 minutes. You want them to be golden and slightly crispy. Once done, take them out and set aside.
4. Make the Cranberry Topping (optional):
If you want to make your cranberry topping homemade, heat a small pan over medium heat. Add olive oil and the minced shallot. Cook until the shallot is soft. Then, mix in the cranberry sauce and honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter. Stir it well and let it cook for about 2–3 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the Brie:
On each toasted bread slice, place a piece of Brie cheese. Then, pop the baking sheet back in the oven and bake for an additional 4–5 minutes, or until the Brie starts to get soft and melty.
6. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Once the Brie is ready, take the crostini out of the oven. Spoon your prepared cranberry sauce generously over each slice of Brie. Yum!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, for that extra touch, garnish each crostini with a small sprig of fresh rosemary. This not only looks beautiful but gives a lovely aroma. Serve these crostini warm, fresh from the oven, and enjoy every bite!
This recipe yields a perfect balance of creamy Brie, sweet-tart cranberry, and crunchy toasted bread — a delightful appetizer or party snack that’s sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While a baguette gives a lovely crunch, you can use ciabatta, sourdough, or any crusty bread you prefer. Just keep in mind that different breads might change the texture and flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to eat them soon after making, as the bread may lose its crispiness. If reheating, place them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to regain their crunch!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the toasted bread slices and cranberry topping in advance. Just store them separately until you’re ready to serve. When you’re ready to enjoy, assemble with Brie and reheat in the oven until warm!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
If you’re feeling adventurous, try different toppings like caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. These variations can add new and delicious flavors to your crostini!