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Cranberry Brie Crostini Flavorful Appetizer Recipe

by on May 3, 2025

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Looking for a simple, tasty appetizer? Try my Cranberry Brie Crostini! These bites are a perfect mix of creamy Brie and sweet cranberry sauce. They’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests. With just a few ingredients, you can create a fun dish that’s great for any gathering. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe and get started on your new favorite appetizer!

- 1 French baguette, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds - 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced into thin pieces - 1 cup fresh cranberries - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup water - 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon honey - 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped (optional) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste The French baguette is the base for this dish. It should be fresh and crusty. Choose one that is slightly chewy inside. The Brie cheese must be creamy and soft. Look for high-quality Brie for rich flavor. Fresh cranberries are the star of this recipe. You can find them in the produce section during fall and winter. For sweetness, we use granulated sugar and honey. These balance the tartness of the cranberries. You can add fresh rosemary for a lovely herbal note. If you want crunch, walnuts are an excellent choice. They add texture and a nutty flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this appetizer a hit. You’ll love how they work together! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for crisp crostini. 2. Preparing the baguette slices: Cut a French baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Lay them out on a lined baking sheet without overlapping. 3. Baking the crostini: Brush each baguette slice with olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on top. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. 1. Cooking the cranberries: In a medium saucepan, mix 1 cup of fresh cranberries, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat. Stir often until the cranberries burst, about 10 minutes. 2. Adding rosemary and honey: Once the cranberries are soft, stir in 1 teaspoon of finely chopped rosemary and 1 tablespoon of honey. Remove it from heat. Let it cool, as it will thicken more. 1. Topping the crostini with Brie: After baking, take out the crostini. Place a slice of Brie cheese on each toasted round. 2. Spoon cranberry sauce and optional nuts: Generously spoon the cranberry mixture over the cheese. Add chopped walnuts on top if you want a crunchy texture. 3. Final baking for cheese melting: Return the crostini to the oven. Bake for another 5 minutes to warm the cheese and let it melt slightly. Enjoy your flavorful Cranberry Brie Crostini while warm! To make the perfect crostini, start with a fresh baguette. Cut it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This thickness helps create a crisp bite. Brush each slice with olive oil for flavor and crunch. Here are some tips to prevent sogginess in your crostini: - Bake the baguette slices until golden brown. This adds a nice crunch. - Keep them in a single layer while baking. This helps them crisp evenly. - Avoid spreading too much sauce on top before baking. A little goes a long way! For hosting, pair these crostini with a light white wine or sparkling drink. They also go well with a fresh salad or charcuterie board. When it comes to presentation, place the crostini on a nice platter. You can add a sprig of rosemary on each piece. This adds color and a hint of freshness. Drizzling honey over the top can also make them look fancy! Pro Tips Choose the Right Brie: Opt for a high-quality Brie cheese for a creamy and flavorful experience. Look for one with a good balance of softness and flavor. Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra zing, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry mixture while it cooks. This will enhance the flavors and provide a delightful contrast. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Try adding pomegranate seeds, sliced figs, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a unique flavor profile. Serve with a Side: Pair these crostini with a light salad or a charcuterie board for a well-rounded appetizer spread that guests will love. {{image_4}} You can switch up the cheese if you want. Goat cheese or cream cheese works well. They add unique flavors that mix nicely with cranberries. For fruit, try apples or pears in season. They bring a fresh touch while keeping it sweet. Spices can change things up. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry sauce. They add warmth and depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon can also brighten the flavor. Just chop them finely and mix in. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free baguette or crackers. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish. If you want a vegan version, swap the Brie for a nut-based cheese. You can also replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. These changes keep the recipe delicious and friendly for all diets. To keep your crostini fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sogginess. Aim to consume them within two days for the best taste. If you notice any moisture, you can lightly re-toast them in the oven for a few minutes. This helps restore their crispiness. You can freeze the assembled crostini, but the texture may change once thawed. Wrap each crostini in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, place the crostini on a baking sheet. Heat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This will warm the cheese and crisp up the bread again. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor! Can I make the cranberry sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the cranberry sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This saves time and lets the flavors deepen. How long do crostini stay fresh? Crostini stay fresh for about 1-2 days if stored in a cool, dry place. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. What is the best way to reheat crostini? To reheat crostini, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy and warm without making them soggy. Can I use dried cranberries instead? Yes, dried cranberries can work in a pinch. However, you may need to soak them in warm water to soften them. Adjust the sugar based on their sweetness. How do I make this dish spicier? To add heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in the cranberry sauce. You can also add sliced jalapeños on top of the crostini for extra kick. This guide showed you how to create a delicious crostini with Brie and cranberry. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even tips for the best results. You can impress your guests with this simple yet tasty dish. Remember, feel free to explore variations and substitutions to match your taste. Enjoy making this crostini, and savor the wonderful flavors!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and tart flavors of the cranberry sauce perfectly complement the creamy Brie, creating a gourmet experience in every bite.
  2. Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for entertaining guests or enjoying as a delightful snack at home.
  3. Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the cranberry sauce and the elegant look of the crostini make this dish visually appealing, perfect for any occasion.
  4. Customizable Toppings: You can easily personalize these crostini with different nuts or herbs, allowing for creativity and variation in every batch.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 French baguette, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds

– 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced into thin pieces

– 1 cup fresh cranberries

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1/4 cup water

– 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped (optional)

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

The French baguette is the base for this dish. It should be fresh and crusty. Choose one that is slightly chewy inside. The Brie cheese must be creamy and soft. Look for high-quality Brie for rich flavor.

Fresh cranberries are the star of this recipe. You can find them in the produce section during fall and winter. For sweetness, we use granulated sugar and honey. These balance the tartness of the cranberries.

You can add fresh rosemary for a lovely herbal note. If you want crunch, walnuts are an excellent choice. They add texture and a nutty flavor.

Each ingredient plays a key role in making this appetizer a hit. You’ll love how they work together!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for crisp crostini.

2. Preparing the baguette slices: Cut a French baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Lay them out on a lined baking sheet without overlapping.

3. Baking the crostini: Brush each baguette slice with olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on top. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp.

Preparing Cranberry Sauce

1. Cooking the cranberries: In a medium saucepan, mix 1 cup of fresh cranberries, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat. Stir often until the cranberries burst, about 10 minutes.

2. Adding rosemary and honey: Once the cranberries are soft, stir in 1 teaspoon of finely chopped rosemary and 1 tablespoon of honey. Remove it from heat. Let it cool, as it will thicken more.

Assembling and Final Baking

1. Topping the crostini with Brie: After baking, take out the crostini. Place a slice of Brie cheese on each toasted round.

2. Spoon cranberry sauce and optional nuts: Generously spoon the cranberry mixture over the cheese. Add chopped walnuts on top if you want a crunchy texture.

3. Final baking for cheese melting: Return the crostini to the oven. Bake for another 5 minutes to warm the cheese and let it melt slightly.

Enjoy your flavorful Cranberry Brie Crostini while warm!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

To make the perfect crostini, start with a fresh baguette. Cut it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This thickness helps create a crisp bite. Brush each slice with olive oil for flavor and crunch.

Here are some tips to prevent sogginess in your crostini:

– Bake the baguette slices until golden brown. This adds a nice crunch.

– Keep them in a single layer while baking. This helps them crisp evenly.

– Avoid spreading too much sauce on top before baking. A little goes a long way!

Serving Suggestions

For hosting, pair these crostini with a light white wine or sparkling drink. They also go well with a fresh salad or charcuterie board.

When it comes to presentation, place the crostini on a nice platter. You can add a sprig of rosemary on each piece. This adds color and a hint of freshness. Drizzling honey over the top can also make them look fancy!

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Brie: Opt for a high-quality Brie cheese for a creamy and flavorful experience. Look for one with a good balance of softness and flavor.
  2. Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra zing, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry mixture while it cooks. This will enhance the flavors and provide a delightful contrast.
  3. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Try adding pomegranate seeds, sliced figs, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
  4. Serve with a Side: Pair these crostini with a light salad or a charcuterie board for a well-rounded appetizer spread that guests will love.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch up the cheese if you want. Goat cheese or cream cheese works well. They add unique flavors that mix nicely with cranberries. For fruit, try apples or pears in season. They bring a fresh touch while keeping it sweet.

Flavor Tweaks

Spices can change things up. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry sauce. They add warmth and depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon can also brighten the flavor. Just chop them finely and mix in.

Dietary Adjustments

For gluten-free options, use gluten-free baguette or crackers. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish. If you want a vegan version, swap the Brie for a nut-based cheese. You can also replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. These changes keep the recipe delicious and friendly for all diets.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your crostini fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sogginess. Aim to consume them within two days for the best taste. If you notice any moisture, you can lightly re-toast them in the oven for a few minutes. This helps restore their crispiness.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the assembled crostini, but the texture may change once thawed. Wrap each crostini in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight.

For reheating, place the crostini on a baking sheet. Heat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This will warm the cheese and crisp up the bread again. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I make the cranberry sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cranberry sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This saves time and lets the flavors deepen.

How long do crostini stay fresh?

Crostini stay fresh for about 1-2 days if stored in a cool, dry place. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.

What is the best way to reheat crostini?

To reheat crostini, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy and warm without making them soggy.

Recipe Adjustments

Can I use dried cranberries instead?

Yes, dried cranberries can work in a pinch. However, you may need to soak them in warm water to soften them. Adjust the sugar based on their sweetness.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in the cranberry sauce. You can also add sliced jalapeños on top of the crostini for extra kick.

This guide showed you how to create a delicious crostini with Brie and cranberry. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even tips for the best results.

You can impress your guests with this simple yet tasty dish. Remember, feel free to explore variations and substitutions to match your taste. Enjoy making this crostini, and savor the wonderful flavor

- 1 French baguette, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds - 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced into thin pieces - 1 cup fresh cranberries - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup water - 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped - 1 tablespoon honey - 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped (optional) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste The French baguette is the base for this dish. It should be fresh and crusty. Choose one that is slightly chewy inside. The Brie cheese must be creamy and soft. Look for high-quality Brie for rich flavor. Fresh cranberries are the star of this recipe. You can find them in the produce section during fall and winter. For sweetness, we use granulated sugar and honey. These balance the tartness of the cranberries. You can add fresh rosemary for a lovely herbal note. If you want crunch, walnuts are an excellent choice. They add texture and a nutty flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this appetizer a hit. You’ll love how they work together! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for crisp crostini. 2. Preparing the baguette slices: Cut a French baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Lay them out on a lined baking sheet without overlapping. 3. Baking the crostini: Brush each baguette slice with olive oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on top. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp. 1. Cooking the cranberries: In a medium saucepan, mix 1 cup of fresh cranberries, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat. Stir often until the cranberries burst, about 10 minutes. 2. Adding rosemary and honey: Once the cranberries are soft, stir in 1 teaspoon of finely chopped rosemary and 1 tablespoon of honey. Remove it from heat. Let it cool, as it will thicken more. 1. Topping the crostini with Brie: After baking, take out the crostini. Place a slice of Brie cheese on each toasted round. 2. Spoon cranberry sauce and optional nuts: Generously spoon the cranberry mixture over the cheese. Add chopped walnuts on top if you want a crunchy texture. 3. Final baking for cheese melting: Return the crostini to the oven. Bake for another 5 minutes to warm the cheese and let it melt slightly. Enjoy your flavorful Cranberry Brie Crostini while warm! To make the perfect crostini, start with a fresh baguette. Cut it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This thickness helps create a crisp bite. Brush each slice with olive oil for flavor and crunch. Here are some tips to prevent sogginess in your crostini: - Bake the baguette slices until golden brown. This adds a nice crunch. - Keep them in a single layer while baking. This helps them crisp evenly. - Avoid spreading too much sauce on top before baking. A little goes a long way! For hosting, pair these crostini with a light white wine or sparkling drink. They also go well with a fresh salad or charcuterie board. When it comes to presentation, place the crostini on a nice platter. You can add a sprig of rosemary on each piece. This adds color and a hint of freshness. Drizzling honey over the top can also make them look fancy! Pro Tips Choose the Right Brie: Opt for a high-quality Brie cheese for a creamy and flavorful experience. Look for one with a good balance of softness and flavor. Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra zing, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry mixture while it cooks. This will enhance the flavors and provide a delightful contrast. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Try adding pomegranate seeds, sliced figs, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a unique flavor profile. Serve with a Side: Pair these crostini with a light salad or a charcuterie board for a well-rounded appetizer spread that guests will love. {{image_4}} You can switch up the cheese if you want. Goat cheese or cream cheese works well. They add unique flavors that mix nicely with cranberries. For fruit, try apples or pears in season. They bring a fresh touch while keeping it sweet. Spices can change things up. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry sauce. They add warmth and depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon can also brighten the flavor. Just chop them finely and mix in. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free baguette or crackers. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish. If you want a vegan version, swap the Brie for a nut-based cheese. You can also replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. These changes keep the recipe delicious and friendly for all diets. To keep your crostini fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sogginess. Aim to consume them within two days for the best taste. If you notice any moisture, you can lightly re-toast them in the oven for a few minutes. This helps restore their crispiness. You can freeze the assembled crostini, but the texture may change once thawed. Wrap each crostini in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, place the crostini on a baking sheet. Heat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This will warm the cheese and crisp up the bread again. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor! Can I make the cranberry sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the cranberry sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This saves time and lets the flavors deepen. How long do crostini stay fresh? Crostini stay fresh for about 1-2 days if stored in a cool, dry place. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. What is the best way to reheat crostini? To reheat crostini, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy and warm without making them soggy. Can I use dried cranberries instead? Yes, dried cranberries can work in a pinch. However, you may need to soak them in warm water to soften them. Adjust the sugar based on their sweetness. How do I make this dish spicier? To add heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in the cranberry sauce. You can also add sliced jalapeños on top of the crostini for extra kick. This guide showed you how to create a delicious crostini with Brie and cranberry. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even tips for the best results. You can impress your guests with this simple yet tasty dish. Remember, feel free to explore variations and substitutions to match your taste. Enjoy making this crostini, and savor the wonderful flavors!

Cranberry Brie Bliss Crostini

Delicious crostini topped with creamy Brie cheese and homemade cranberry sauce, perfect for appetizers or party snacks.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 French baguette cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds
  • 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced into thin pieces
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 tablespoons walnuts, chopped (optional)
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lay out the baguette slices on the sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
  • Lightly brush each baguette round with olive oil, ensuring a thin, even coating. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top of each slice. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until they turn golden brown and achieve a crisp texture.
  • While the crostini are baking, prepare the homemade cranberry sauce. In a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Cook while stirring occasionally until the cranberries begin to burst and the mixture thickens, roughly 10 minutes.
  • Once the cranberries have softened, stir in the finely chopped rosemary and the honey. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool slightly; it will thicken even more as it cools.
  • As soon as the crostini are done baking, take them out of the oven and place a slice of Brie cheese on top of each toasted round.
  • Generously spoon a portion of the cranberry mixture over the Brie, then finish with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts if desired, adding a delightful crunch and flavor.
  • Return the assembled crostini to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This will warm the cheese and allow it to melt slightly, creating a luscious topping.
  • Serve immediately while warm, garnished with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a light drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Notes

Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Keyword appetizer, Brie, cranberry, crostini, holiday

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