Cranberry and Brie Crostini are a delightful appetizer that combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce, all served on crispy toasted bread. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or any special occasion!

Ingredients

• 1 French baguette (or Italian bread), sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
• 8 ounces brie cheese, sliced
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for drizzling)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or rosemary)
• Olive oil (for brushing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Timing

Making Cranberry and Brie Crostini takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baguette

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice Bread: Cut the baguette into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange them on a baking sheet.
3. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each slice with olive oil on one side.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is lightly golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 3: Assemble the Crostini

1. Add Brie: Remove the toasted bread from the oven. Place a slice of brie cheese on each toasted slice.
2. Top with Cranberry Sauce: Spoon a generous amount of cranberry sauce over the brie on each crostini.
3. Drizzle with Honey: If using, drizzle a little honey over the top for added sweetness.
4. Season: Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

1. Final Bake: Return the assembled crostini to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the brie is slightly melted.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cranberry and Brie Crostini!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cranberry and Brie Crostini (per serving, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150
Protein	5g
Fat	8g
Carbohydrates	15g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added texture and flavor.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or chives for a unique twist.
• Fruit Variations: Substitute cranberry sauce with fig jam or apple chutney for different flavor profiles.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven to restore some crispiness.

Conclusion

Cranberry and Brie Crostini are a simple yet elegant appetizer that combines rich flavors and textures, making them perfect for any gathering. These bites are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more!

FAQs

Can I prepare these crostini ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the toasted bread and cranberry sauce in advance. Assemble just before serving to ensure the bread stays crispy.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread or crackers instead of baguette slices.