These Goat Cheese and Cranberry Crostini are a tasty starter that will impress anyone! With creamy goat cheese and sweet-tart cranberries on crunchy bread, they are a perfect bite.
They are super easy to make and are always a hit at parties. I love to whip these up as my go-to snack—quick, simple, and deliciously fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: This is the base for your crostini. A fresh baguette works best, but you can also use ciabatta or sourdough for a twist. Just be sure to slice it thick enough to hold the toppings!
Goat Cheese: Fresh goat cheese, or chevre, offers a creamy texture. If you’re not a fan, try cream cheese or ricotta as alternatives. Both provide a similar creaminess!
Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade cranberry sauce or store-bought preserves. If cranberries aren’t available, any fruit jam like fig or raspberry could work great. You’ll lose a bit of the tartness but gain new flavors!
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary brings a lovely aroma. If it’s tricky to find, try thyme or a sprinkle of dried herbs for a different but still delightful taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Crostini?
To make sure your crostini are crispy yet not too hard, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven properly. A hot oven helps to achieve that crispy texture.
- Brush the baguette slices lightly with olive oil. This not only enhances flavor but also helps in crisping them up.
- Bake until just golden, about 8-10 minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Let them cool slightly after baking. This will help them firm up a bit more before topping them!
With these tips, your crostini will be crunchy, flavorful, and ready to impress! Enjoy making this delicious appetizer!
Goat Cheese and Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch thick slices
- 6 oz fresh goat cheese (chevre)
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce or whole berry cranberry preserves
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: cracked black pepper or crushed pecans for extra texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes to bake. In total, you will need about 25 minutes to prepare this tasty Goat Cheese and Cranberry Crostini, perfect for a quick snack or a party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your baguette slices toast evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet, making sure they’re arranged in a single layer so they toast evenly. Drizzle or lightly brush olive oil over each slice to add flavor and promote crunchiness.
3. Bake the Bread:
Bake the bread slices in the oven for about 8-10 minutes or until they turn golden and crisp around the edges. Once done, remove them and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
4. Spread the Goat Cheese:
Using a knife or a small spatula, spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each of the toasted baguette slices. Make sure it’s nice and creamy—don’t be shy with this step!
5. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Next, take a spoonful of cranberry sauce and dollop it right on top of the goat cheese. The tangy sweetness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese.
6. Garnish with Rosemary:
Now, it’s time to add a little flair! Garnish each crostini with a small sprig of fresh rosemary to add color and flavor. If you don’t have rosemary, you can skip this step or use another fresh herb.
7. Optional Topping:
If you like a bit of extra flavor and crunch, sprinkle some cracked black pepper or crushed pecans on top of the crostini. This will enhance the taste and make the dish even more delightful!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully arrange your crostini on a serving platter. Serve them immediately while they’re warm and crispy. Enjoy this elegant appetizer that combines the creamy, tangy goat cheese with the sweet-tart cranberries and fragrant rosemary!
This delightful dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use a Different Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use ciabatta, sourdough, or even pumpernickel. Just ensure the bread can be sliced and toasted for the best texture!
Can I Make These Crostini Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Toast the bread slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread crisp and fresh.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftover crostini are best eaten the same day, but you can store the components separately. Keep the assembled crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the bread may lose its crispness!
Can I Use Store-bought Cranberry Sauce?
Definitely! Store-bought cranberry sauce works just as well as homemade. Choose one that you enjoy, whether it’s smooth or whole berry, to match your taste preference.
