These Goat Cheese Cranberry Crostini are a delightful treat! The creamy goat cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart cranberries, all on crispy toasted bread. Yum!
They’re super easy to whip up and great for gatherings. I love serving them as a fun appetizer that always gets smiles—because who can resist that tasty combination? 🧀🍇
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: The foundation of these crostini! A fresh baguette adds crunch and flavor. If unavailable, any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough works well.
Goat Cheese: Creamy and tangy, goat cheese is perfect here. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it with cream cheese or ricotta. Feta is another option for a crumbly texture.
Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart must-have! You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. For a twist, try a fruit chutney or even a fig spread if you’re feeling adventurous.
Fresh Parsley: This adds freshness to the cheese mix. If you prefer something different, use chives or dill for a unique flavor.
How Do I Toast the Baguette to Perfection?
Toasting the baguette slices enhances their flavor and gives a nice crunch. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) for even heating.
- Slice the baguette diagonally for more surface area, which means more toasty goodness.
- Brush each slice lightly with olive oil to aid browning and add flavor.
- Keep an eye on them while baking, turning them halfway through for even crispiness. They usually take 8-10 minutes to reach a golden brown.
Remember, you want them crispy but not burnt, so check frequently!
Goat Cheese Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 1/2-inch slices
- Olive oil, for brushing
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 6 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to bake, so you’ll have delicious crostini ready in around 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick appetizer or party snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for evenly toasting the baguette slices.
2. Prepare the Baguette Slices:
Lay the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Using a brush, lightly coat each slice with olive oil. This will help them get crispy and golden as they bake!
3. Toast the Baguette:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and toast the baguette slices for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they turn golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly when done.
4. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely blended and creamy.
5. Assemble the Crostini:
Spread a generous layer of the goat cheese mixture on top of each toasted baguette slice. Don’t be shy—make them nice and creamy!
6. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Spoon some cranberry sauce over the goat cheese on each crostini. The tartness of the cranberries is a perfect match for the rich goat cheese.
7. Optional Sweet Touch:
If you like a hint of sweetness, drizzle a little honey over the top of each crostini. This step adds a delightful twist!
8. Garnish:
Finish off by placing a fresh mint leaf on each crostini. This not only looks great but adds a refreshing flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy these delicious crostini immediately while they’re fresh and warm. They are sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a unique tang, you can substitute it with cream cheese for a milder flavor, or feta for a crumbly texture. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary a bit!
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
For any leftovers, store the assembled crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the components separate and assemble just before serving to maintain the toast’s crispiness.
Can I Make the Crostini in Advance?
Yes! You can toast the baguette slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Prepare the goat cheese mixture and cranberry sauce separately, then assemble when you’re ready to serve. This keeps everything fresh!
What Can I Serve These Crostini With?
These crostini pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks! Serve them as an appetizer at parties or alongside a charcuterie board. They also go well with white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing touch.
