This Goat Cheese and Cranberry Crostini is a tasty treat that’s perfect for gatherings. The creamy goat cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy cranberries on crispy bread!
Making these is super simple; just spread the cheese on toasted slices and top with cranberries. I love how colorful they look on a platter. They almost can’t make it to the table! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives that perfect crunchy base for the crostini. If you’re looking for alternatives, French bread or ciabatta work well too. Avoid soft breads for this recipe.
Goat Cheese: Softened goat cheese is creamy and tangy. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, cream cheese or ricotta can be good substitutes, although the flavor will change a bit.
Cranberry Sauce: Fresh or canned cranberry sauce is key for that sweet and tangy kick. You can even use homemade sauce by cooking whole cranberries with sugar. If you want less tartness, consider using raspberry or fig jam as a substitute.
Honey: This is optional but adds a nice sweetness. Maple syrup can also work as a substitute for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme adds beautiful fragrance. If unavailable, try parsley or even a sprinkle of dried herbs, though fresh is definitely preferred.
How Do You Toast Bread for Perfect Crostini?
Toasting the bread slices correctly is crucial for a great texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat well.
- Brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil to help them crisp up nicely.
- Arrange the slices on a baking sheet without overlapping to ensure even toasting.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; thinner slices may toast faster!
- Let them cool a bit before spreading the cheese; this helps prevent it from melting too much.
Following these steps will give you the ideal crispy base for your crostini!
Goat Cheese And Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh or canned cranberry sauce (or whole cranberries cooked down with sugar)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh thyme or microgreens for garnish
- Olive oil for brushing bread slices
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll be enjoying your Goat Cheese and Cranberry Crostini in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a baking sheet and arrange the baguette slices on it in a single layer. This will ensure even toasting.
2. Brush the Bread:
Lightly brush both sides of each baguette slice with olive oil. This helps them get golden and crispy in the oven, making a perfect base for the toppings.
3. Toast the Baguette Slices:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread slices for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake—you want them golden brown and crisp but not burnt! Once done, carefully remove them and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Spread the Goat Cheese:
Once the toasted baguette slices are slightly cooled, spread a generous layer of softened goat cheese over each piece. The creamy cheese contrasts beautifully with the tangy cranberry sauce.
5. Add the Cranberry Sauce:
Next, spoon cranberry sauce over the goat cheese layer. If you’re using whole cranberries cooked down with sugar, make sure they’re spread evenly to add flavor in each bite.
6. Drizzle with Honey (Optional):
If you enjoy a touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey over the cranberries. This addition captures that lovely sweet-tart balance perfectly!
7. Season and Garnish:
Lightly sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on top. Then, add some fresh thyme leaves or microgreens to each crostini for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
These delicious Goat Cheese and Cranberry Crostini are best served immediately. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear—they’re sure to be a hit!
This recipe creates a delightful balance of creamy, tart, sweet, and crunchy textures—perfect for an appetizer or a fun snack!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce is a convenient and tasty option for this recipe. Just make sure to choose one that you enjoy, as its flavor will come through in the crostini.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the elements in advance! Toast the bread and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a day. Spread the goat cheese and cranberry sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the bread may lose its crispiness. To refresh, you can re-toast them in the oven for a few minutes before serving again.
What Can I Serve These Crostini With?
These crostini pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks, such as red or white wine, or even a light sparkling beverage. They also make a great addition to a cheese board alongside nuts, dried fruits, and olives!