These Goat Cheese and Cranberry Crostini are perfect for any gathering! With crispy bread topped with creamy goat cheese and sweet-tart cranberry, they are a delicious treat everyone will love.
Honestly, they disappear fast at parties! I usually make twice as much because I can’t resist snacking on them while preparing. They’re super easy and always a hit! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A classic choice for crostini, it’s crispy on the outside and soft inside. If you can’t find a baguette, any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough works well!
Goat Cheese: Creamy and tangy, goat cheese is the star here. If you want a milder option, cream cheese or ricotta can be tasty substitutes. Vegan cheese is also great if you’re avoiding dairy.
Cranberry Sauce: You can use store-bought cranberry sauce for convenience, or make a fresh version. If cranberries aren’t in season, try using fig jam or even apple chutney for a different vibe.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or sage adds a nice touch, but if those aren’t your favorites, feel free to use thyme or even chives for a pop of flavor.
How Do I Toast Bread Perfectly for My Crostini?
Getting the bread just right is key for crostini! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for getting that crunch.
- Brush each slice with olive oil to help it crisp up and add flavor. Don’t skimp!
- Keep an eye on them as they toast—around 8-10 minutes should do it. Look for golden edges!
- Let them cool slightly for a few minutes before topping. This prevents the goat cheese from melting too much.
With this method, you’ll have beautifully toasted crostini every time, ready for your tasty toppings!
Goat Cheese and Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
- 6 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce or fresh cranberries cooked down to a jam
- Fresh rosemary or sage leaves for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil for brushing bread
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crostini recipe takes about 15 minutes total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes preparing the ingredients, and another 10 minutes for toasting the bread and assembling everything. It’s quick and perfect for unexpected guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help create perfectly crisp crostini. While the oven is heating, slice your baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces and set aside.
2. Toast the Baguette Slices:
Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven. Bake the bread for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
3. Assemble the Crostini:
Once the toasted baguette slices have cooled slightly, it’s time to add the toppings. Spread a generous layer of softened goat cheese onto each slice—don’t be shy with the cheese! Then, spoon a dollop of cranberry sauce on top of the cheese, creating a lovely layer.
4. Garnish and Serve:
For a lovely finishing touch, add a small fresh rosemary or sage leaf on top of each crostini. If you like, you can season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Finally, serve these beautiful crostini immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!
This combination of creamy, tangy goat cheese, sweet cranberry, and crispy bread makes for an elegant and delicious appetizer. Perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce is perfectly fine and saves time. Just make sure it’s a flavor you enjoy, or try mixing in some fresh herbs for extra depth!
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you can swap the goat cheese for a plant-based cream cheese or nut cheese. For the cranberry sauce, ensure it’s prepared without any animal-based ingredients.
Can I Prepare Crostini in Advance?
You can prepare the toasted baguette slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day. Just add the goat cheese and cranberry sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh!
How to Store Leftover Crostini?
Leftover assembled crostini are best eaten fresh, but if you have some, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. That said, the bread may lose some crispiness!