Cranberry and Brie Crostini are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and creamy. With crispy toasted bread, melty brie, and a burst of tangy cranberry sauce, these little bites are ideal for holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, or even as a fancy snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
These crostini are easy to make but look and taste gourmet. They’re a great way to use leftover cranberry sauce and can be prepped ahead, so you can focus on entertaining. Plus, they’re versatile—perfect as an appetizer or a light treat.
Ingredients
You’ll need a baguette, olive oil, brie cheese, cranberry sauce, honey, and fresh thyme for garnish. Full list of ingredients is at the bottom of the recipe!
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into thin rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and toast in the oven for 6-8 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- While the bread is toasting, slice the brie into thin pieces.
- Remove the baguette slices from the oven and top each one with a slice of brie. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, just until the brie begins to melt.
- Spoon a dollop of cranberry sauce over the melted brie and drizzle lightly with honey.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of flavor and color. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use a serrated knife to slice the baguette for clean, even cuts.
- If your cranberry sauce is too thick, thin it with a little orange juice or water.
- Toast the baguette slices ahead of time and assemble the crostini just before serving to save time.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam, raspberry preserves, or orange marmalade for a different flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy element.
- Use goat cheese or camembert instead of brie for a twist.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Cranberry and Brie Crostini pair beautifully with a glass of sparkling wine or a crisp white wine. Serve them as part of a holiday appetizer spread alongside charcuterie, spiced nuts, or stuffed mushrooms.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the toasted baguette slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Avoid assembling the crostini until just before serving, as the bread can become soggy.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! Both store-bought and homemade cranberry sauce work well for this recipe.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free baguette or bread slices.
What’s the best way to melt the brie?
A quick trip to the oven is ideal, but you can also use a kitchen torch for a more dramatic effect.
Can I serve these cold?
While they’re best warm, you can assemble and serve them at room temperature for convenience.
Conclusion
Cranberry and Brie Crostini are the ultimate festive appetizer that combines elegance with simplicity. They’re quick to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to impress your guests. Add this recipe to your holiday repertoire, and you’ll have a go-to crowd-pleaser for years to come!
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Cranberry and Brie Crostini
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Perfect for holiday gatherings or elegant appetizers, these Cranberry and Brie Crostini are a delightful combination of creamy brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crispy toasted bread. Topped with a touch of honey and fresh herbs, they’re simple yet sophisticated bites everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 8 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush each with olive oil. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
- Add the brie: Place a slice of brie on each toasted baguette slice. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes, just until the brie starts to soften.
- Add cranberry sauce: Remove the crostini from the oven and top each with a dollop of cranberry sauce.
- Finish with honey and herbs: Drizzle lightly with honey, if desired, and sprinkle with fresh rosemary or thyme.
- Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use whole-grain or sourdough baguette for added flavor.
- Substitute cranberry sauce with fig or apricot jam for a sweeter variation.
- Make ahead: Toast the baguette slices in advance and assemble just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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