These tasty brie and cranberry crostini are a perfect mix of creamy cheese and sweet tangy sauce. The toasted bread adds a nice crunch, making each bite so enjoyable!
They make a great appetizer for any gathering, and let’s be honest, they disappear faster than you can say “crostini”. I love serving them with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness! 🧀❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette adds the perfect crunch. If you can’t find a baguette, French bread or even sourdough works well. Just avoid overly soft breads.
Brie Cheese: Brie offers a creamy, rich flavor. Can’t find it? Try Camembert or even goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Cranberries: Use fresh cranberries for a bright flavor. If they’re out of season, canned cranberry sauce could work, but make sure it’s not too sweet—you might need to adjust the sugar.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme enhance the dish beautifully. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions can work, but use them sparingly since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Crostini Are Perfectly Toasted?
Toasting the bread just right is key to the crostini’s success! Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even toasting.
- Brush each bread slice lightly with olive oil or melted butter. This adds flavor and helps them crisp up nicely.
- Keep an eye on them while they toast! Ovens can vary, and you want them golden brown, not burnt.
Letting the crostini cool slightly before topping them will help the Brie melt just enough without making the bread soggy. Enjoy the crunch!
Brie And Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup fresh or canned cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing bread)
- Optional: honey for drizzling
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and assembling, and another 15 minutes toasting and cooking the topping. It’s quick enough for a weekday snack yet fancy enough for entertaining guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This makes sure the crostini get nice and crispy when you toast them.
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil or melted butter to give them great flavor and help with crispiness.
3. Toast the Bread:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and toast the bread for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the slices are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Once they’re toasted, remove them from the oven and set aside.
4. Make the Cranberry Compote:
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Toss in the sprig of fresh rosemary, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally as it cooks.
5. Thicken the Compote:
Let the compote cook for about 10 minutes. You want the cranberries to burst and create a chunky sauce. Once thickened, remove the rosemary sprig and stir in the fresh thyme leaves for added flavor.
6. Assemble the Crostini:
While the baguette slices are still warm, place a slice of Brie cheese on each piece. The heat from the bread will soften the cheese wonderfully.
7. Top with Cranberry Compote:
Now, spoon a generous amount of that delicious cranberry compote over the Brie on each crostini. The sweet and tart flavors will blend perfectly with the creamy cheese!
8. Garnish and Serve:
For the final touch, garnish each crostini with a small sprig of fresh rosemary. If you like a bit more sweetness, drizzle lightly with honey.
9. Enjoy!
Serve the crostini immediately for the best experience. They are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as an indulgent snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie adds a creamy richness, you can also use Camembert or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten crostini in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best eaten fresh, but you can keep them for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven for a couple of minutes to regain some crispiness.
Can I Make the Compote Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cranberry compote in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove and assemble the crostini just before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Herbs?
If you don’t have fresh rosemary or thyme, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs since they have a stronger flavor. Just add them to the cranberry mixture while it’s cooking!