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This simple Christmas bruschetta wreath makes a festive centerpiece for holiday gatherings with family or friends and always gets rave reviews. The flavors are bright and fresh and the wreath presentation brings an extra bit of celebration to the table. It is so easy that you can whip it up, even if you have just a little time before guests arrive.
The first time I made this for Christmas Eve appetizers I remember how quickly it was devoured. Now my niece asks me every December if I am making the “bruschetta wreath” again. It has become a family tradition.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Ripe Roma tomatoes: This variety holds its shape and offers rich natural sweetness so look for firm fruit with bright red skin
- Fresh basil leaves: Brings a burst of flavor and color choose vibrant leaves with no dark spots
- Garlic cloves: For both the topping and for rubbing on the toasted bread buy firm unblemished bulbs for best results
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds fruity richness pick a bottle labeled cold pressed for full flavor
- Salt and pepper: Enhances all the fresh ingredients use flaky sea salt or freshly ground black pepper if available
- Baguette: Sliced rounds will toast up perfectly pick a loaf that is fresh and not too dense
- Soft white cheese: Options like ricotta cream cheese or mozzarella pearls bring creamy contrast to the tomato mixture select cheese that is soft and mild for easy blending
- Optional toppings: Like fresh rosemary sprigs or Parmesan for extra festive flavor and presentation use fresh herbs and high quality Parmesan for best results
How to Make It
- Prep and Toast the Bread:
- Arrange your sliced baguette on a large baking sheet so the pieces are not touching. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until the tops and edges turn a light golden color. This usually takes five to seven minutes. Removing when just toasted keeps the bread crisp but not hard.
- Rub with Garlic:
- While the toast is still warm cut the top off a garlic clove and gently rub the surface of each bread round. The warmth helps the garlic flavor melt right into the bread making every bite fragrant.
- Make Tomato Mixture:
- In a medium bowl add your diced tomatoes chopped basil and minced garlic followed by olive oil salt and pepper. Stir until everything is coated. Let the bowl sit for ten minutes so the flavors can blend and the tomatoes soften just a bit.
- Fold in Cheese:
- Using a spatula gently fold your soft cheese into the tomato mixture. Avoid overmixing to keep the cheese distinct within the blend.
- Assemble Bruschetta:
- Spoon a generous layer of the tomato cheese mixture onto each toasted bread slice. Arrange the slices in a circle on your platter to mimic a wreath.
- Garnish:
- Tuck rosemary sprigs around the edges for a pretty green effect and optionally dust the tops with freshly grated Parmesan for a festive finish.
- Serve:
- Bring the platter straight to the table. This bruschetta is best enjoyed right away while the bread is still crisp and the toppings are vibrant.
My favorite part is always picking the homemade ricotta for the cheese. It makes every bite so creamy and smooth. My family always argues over who gets the piece with the most tomato topping. It is a funny tradition at our house.
Flavor Boosters
Let tomatoes sit with salt so flavors blend and juices develop. Use really fresh herbs for the brightest flavor. Swap in heirloom or cherry tomatoes, whipped feta, or add fresh oregano for even more taste and color.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange extra rosemary or edible flowers for colorful holiday presentation. Serve alongside olives, pickles, or a light salad for a complete appetizer spread. Kids love making mini versions using smaller bread slices or crackers.
Creative Twists
Try roasted winter tomatoes with a sprinkle of chili or use pastel edible flowers and pesto for a spring wreath effect. Toast bread rounds ahead and freeze for up to a month. Mix up the cheese for creamy variations.
This bruschetta wreath is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and adds a festive touch to your holiday table. Quick to make and easy to customize, it will become a new tradition in your home.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I make the tomato topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper a few hours ahead. Fold in the cheese just before serving for best freshness.
- → Which cheese works best for the bruschetta wreath?
Soft ricotta, cream cheese, or mozzarella pearls are all great options. Use your favorite or a mix for extra flavor.
- → How can I keep the baguette slices crispy?
Toast the baguette slices just before assembling and avoid adding the topping too early to prevent sogginess.
- → Can I add extra herbs to the topping?
Absolutely. Beyond basil, fresh rosemary or parsley make fragrant garnishes that fit the holiday theme.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, simply choose vegetarian-friendly cheese options, and this appetizer is a delicious choice for vegetarian guests.