These Brie and cranberry crostinis are the perfect little bites for any gathering! Crispy bread topped with creamy Brie and sweet-tart cranberry sauce makes for a tasty treat.
Who can resist the warm, gooey cheese melting into a crunchy crostini? They disappear faster than you can say “yum!” I love serving these at parties; they’re always a hit!
Making these is super easy—I just toast the slices, add the toppings, and pop them in the oven. Simple, delicious, and perfect for impressing friends! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette is excellent for crostini because of its crusty exterior and soft inside. For a twist, try using a whole grain or gluten-free baguette if needed!
Brie Cheese: This rich cheese melts beautifully. If you’re out of Brie, Camembert is a great substitute. Cream cheese can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be different.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use store-bought cranberry sauce, but homemade gives a fresher taste! Swap with raspberry or cherry preserves for a different flavor.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a delightful herbal note. If you don’t have it, consider rosemary or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
How Do You Get Perfectly Toasted Crostini?
Toasting the baguette properly makes all the difference for a great texture! Here’s how to get it right:
- Set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the right balance of heat.
- Brush each slice of baguette with olive oil on both sides to achieve golden and crunchy results.
- Don’t rush! Toast for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until you get that nice golden color.
This will give you a lovely base for your creamy Brie and sweet cranberry, ensuring your crostinis are a hit!
Brie And Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 French baguette (about 12 inches), sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing bread)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. In no time, you’ll have warm, cheesy crostinis ready for your guests to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for toasting the crostini!
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Take your sliced baguette and arrange the pieces on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil on both sides to help them crisp up perfectly in the oven.
3. Toast the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and toast the bread slices for about 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through to get them golden and crisp on both sides—yum!
4. Add the Brie:
Once toasted, take the baking sheet out and add a slice of Brie cheese on top of each crostini. Return them to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until the Brie is wonderfully soft and melty.
5. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
When the Brie is nice and gooey, remove the crostinis from the oven. Spoon on a generous amount of cranberry sauce over the warm cheese—this is where the magic happens!
6. Garnish & Season:
If you’d like, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper over the top for a little extra flavor and color.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Finally, arrange the crostinis on a platter and serve them warm. These delicious bites are perfect as an appetizer or snack and are sure to impress everyone!
Can I Use Leftover Cranberry Sauce for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cranberry sauce is a perfect match for this crostini. It adds great flavor and pairs beautifully with the Brie. Just use as much as you like!
Can I Prepare the Crostini in Advance?
For sure! You can toast the baguette slices a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the Brie and cranberry sauce and bake to warm them up!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
If you’re feeling creative, try adding a dollop of fig jam or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for extra texture. You can also experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar!
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, just pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
