Save I threw together these crostini on a whim one December afternoon when my sister texted that she was bringing extra people to dinner. The oven was already warm from roasting vegetables, and I had half a wheel of Brie that needed using. What started as panic became the dish everyone remembered most. Sometimes the best recipes are born from necessity and a little bit of luck.
I started making these every holiday season after that first accidental success. My dad always reaches for two at once, and my friend Claire once admitted she skipped dinner entirely because she filled up on these during cocktail hour. Theyre the kind of appetizer that disappears fast and starts conversations.
Ingredients
- French baguette: A day-old baguette actually works better here because it slices cleanly and crisps up without burning.
- Olive oil: Brushing both sides ensures even browning and prevents sad, pale spots on your toast.
- Brie cheese: Look for a wheel thats slightly firm to the touch so it softens beautifully without turning into a puddle in the oven.
- Cranberry sauce: Homemade tastes brighter, but a good jarred version saves time and no one will judge you for it.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme: A small amount goes a long way and the fragrance makes your kitchen smell like a holiday.
- Toasted pecans or walnuts: These add a nutty crunch that balances the creamy, jammy layers underneath.
- Microgreens or arugula: A handful of greens makes each bite feel a little more special and less heavy.
Instructions
- Toast the baguette:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet, brushing both sides with olive oil. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until theyre golden and smell like warm bread.
- Melt the Brie:
- Lay a thin slice of Brie on each toasted round and slide the tray back into the oven for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the cheese soft and yielding, not liquid.
- Add the cranberry sauce:
- Spoon 1 to 2 teaspoons of cranberry sauce over each piece of Brie while the cheese is still warm. The contrast between tart and creamy is what makes this work.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped rosemary or thyme, then top with toasted nuts and a few microgreens if you have them. Serve warm or at room temperature, whichever suits your timing.
Save The first time I served these at a party, a guest asked if I went to culinary school. I laughed and told her I just followed my nose and adjusted as I went. Thats the truth of it. Cooking like this isnt about perfection, its about paying attention and tasting as you build.
Make It Your Own
Swap the Brie for creamy goat cheese if you want something tangier, or try camembert for a earthier flavor. I once used fig jam instead of cranberry when I ran out, and it was just as good. Dont be afraid to experiment with what you have on hand.
Pairing and Serving
These crostini shine alongside a glass of sparkling wine or a crisp dry rosé. I also love serving them with a light salad to balance the richness. If youre hosting a crowd, double the batch because they vanish faster than you think.
Storage and Timing
You can toast the baguette slices a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. The cranberry sauce keeps for a week in the fridge. When guests arrive, all you have to do is assemble and warm everything through.
- Assemble just before serving so the bread stays crisp.
- Leftovers can be gently reheated in a low oven, though theyre rarely around long enough for that.
- If making cranberry sauce from scratch, let it cool completely before spooning it on so it doesnt slide off.
Save These crostini have become a small tradition in my house, something I make without thinking when December rolls around. I hope they bring a little warmth and ease to your table too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread is best for crostini?
A sliced French baguette toasted until crisp works best for a sturdy base and ideal crunch.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?
Yes, soft cheeses like Camembert or goat cheese are great alternatives and complement the cranberry nicely.
- → How can I make homemade cranberry sauce?
Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar and orange juice until the mixture thickens to a sauce consistency.
- → What herbs pair well with this topping?
Chopped fresh rosemary or thyme adds an aromatic touch that enhances the flavors.
- → Are there any suggested garnishes for added texture?
Toasted pecans, walnuts, or fresh microgreens bring crunch and freshness to the crostini.