These Brie and cranberry crostini are a tasty treat! Crispy slices of bread topped with creamy Brie cheese and sweet tart cranberry sauce make a perfect bite-sized snack.
They are super quick to make, and I love how fancy they look—great for parties or just a cozy night at home. Plus, who can resist that gooey cheese? 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives a nice crunch and texture. If you can’t find one, French bread or even ciabatta can work too! For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free bread slices.
Brie Cheese: This creamy cheese is key for the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter flavor, Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute. Cream cheese will also work, but it won’t have the same distinct taste.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade or jarred cranberry sauce. If cranberries are out of season, any fruit jam or chutney like raspberry or fig can be an excellent alternative. You can also make a quick cranberry relish with fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice!
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary adds a lovely touch, but feel free to swap it with fresh thyme or even basil if you prefer. Dried herbs can be used too—just use less, about a third of the amount.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Toasted Bread?
Getting your bread perfectly toasted is essential for a delicious crostini. It’s all about timing! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to ensure they toast evenly.
- If you brush them with olive oil or melted butter, you’ll get a nice crispy edge.
- Watch them closely—8 to 10 minutes is usually good, but it might vary with your oven. Look for a golden color!
Remember, once they’re out of the oven, they can continue to crisp up for a minute or two. Enjoy your crostini warm for the best experience!
Brie And Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette or French bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced or cut into small pieces
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional, for brushing bread)
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time plus a little extra time for toasting and cooking the crostini. You’ll impress your guests with these delicious bites in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your crostini bake evenly and become perfectly crispy!
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Slice your baguette or French bread into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Lay the slices on a baking sheet. For an extra touch, you can brush each slice lightly with olive oil or melted butter to help them get that golden color and delicious crunch. It’s optional, but it makes a difference!
3. Toast the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the bread toast for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are nicely golden and crisp. This is the base of your crostini, so you want it just right!
4. Add the Brie:
Once the bread is toasted, take it out and place a slice or small piece of Brie cheese on each crostini. The warm bread will help melt the cheese nicely. Put the baking sheet back in the oven for another 3-5 minutes. You want the Brie to soften and start melting—yummy!
5. Top It Off with Cranberry Sauce:
After the Brie has melted, remove the crostini from the oven. Grab your cranberry sauce and spoon a generous amount on top of each piece. The sweet-tart cranberry is what makes this dish special!
6. Garnish for Flavor:
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little chopped fresh rosemary or thyme leaves on top. It adds a beautiful touch and an extra layer of flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your crostini warm and fresh from the oven. They’re perfect for sharing or for a light snack, and they look fancy enough for any gathering. Your friends and family will love them!
Can I Make These Crostini in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the toasted bread and store it in an airtight container for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply add the Brie and cranberry sauce, then warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Brie Cheese?
If you’re looking for a different flavor or texture, Neufchâtel cheese is a great alternative that still provides creaminess. Soft goat cheese or cream cheese can also work, but will offer a different taste profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
Leftover crostini are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the bread may lose its crispiness. To enjoy them again, reheat in the oven for a few minutes until warmed and slightly crispy.
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the cranberry sauce with any fruit jam or chutney, like raspberry or fig. It will still provide that delightful sweet-tart flavor that pairs well with the creamy cheese!
