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Cranberry brie crostini always brings a burst of festive flavor and creamy comfort to holiday tables or casual get-togethers. The blend of tart cranberries and buttery brie on crisp baguette makes this appetizer as stunning as it is simple. Whenever I make these crostini, they disappear fast between bites and happy chatter.
My family requests this every Thanksgiving and I love how quickly I can pull it together even during the busiest weeks.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Baguette: Fresh bread yields irresistible crunch and holds toppings well. Choose a baguette that is crisp outside and fluffy inside for the best texture.
- Brie cheese: Creamy with a buttery flavor that melts perfectly on the bread. Opt for a high-quality wheel with soft rind for maximum richness.
- Cranberry sauce: Adds tartness and color. You can use your favorite brand or make a fresh sauce with whole berries for standout flavor.
- Fresh rosemary: Chopped rosemary lifts every bite with herbal brightness. Use sprigs that are vibrant green for the most aroma.
- Balsamic glaze: Brings sweetness and tang. I prefer using a thick glaze for neat drizzles over the crostini.
- Olive oil: For crisping and bringing out the bread’s flavor. Use a fruity extra virgin olive oil if possible.
- Salt: Rounds out and balances all elements. A flaky sea salt works especially well for finishing.
How to Make It
- Slice and Prepare the Baguette:
- Cut the baguette on the diagonal about one half inch thick for more surface area and elegant presentation. Each slice should be uniform so they toast evenly.
- Toast the Bread:
- Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake at three hundred seventy five degrees for ten to twelve minutes until they are golden and crisp. Edges should be lightly toasted to support the cheese.
- Cool and Top:
- Let the toasted bread cool slightly so the brie does not immediately melt. Top each with a generous slice of brie. The cheese should cover most of the bread but not hang over the edges.
- Add Cranberry Sauce:
- Spoon a dollop of cranberry sauce over the brie. Gently spread so you get a bit of cranberry in every bite. Use the back of the spoon for even distribution.
- Add Freshness and Finish:
- Scatter chopped rosemary over the cranberry layer then drizzle with balsamic glaze right before serving. The rosemary should be fresh not woody. The glaze adds a glossy finish and tang.
Brie is always my favorite part of this recipe. The way it melts gently onto the warm toast makes every bite creamy and luscious. Last Christmas my cousin and I made a double batch and we still ran out before dinner.
Flavor Boosters
Store assembled crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Re-crisp bread in the oven at low heat before serving. The bread can be toasted up to three days in advance for quicker assembly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crostini as a starter for Thanksgiving dinner or at a winter brunch. Pair with sparkling water and fruit slices for a light touch or with a bold red wine for extra warmth. Arrange on a rustic wooden board for a beautiful centerpiece.
Creative Twists
Try goat cheese or mild camembert if you do not have brie. For the cranberry sauce, raspberry preserves or orange marmalade give a nice sweet tang. Dried thyme works if rosemary is unavailable for a different kind of herbal note.
With these cranberry brie crostini, gatherings instantly feel special. This easy recipe guarantees you will have a crowd-pleasing appetizer with minimal effort—enjoy every bite!
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of brie works best?
Choose high-quality brie for a creamy texture that melts beautifully over toasted baguette. Triple-cream brie delivers extra richness.
- → Can I use a different bread?
Baguette is traditional, but sourdough or ciabatta also work well, offering a sturdy base and great texture when toasted.
- → Should the cranberry sauce be warm or cold?
Either can be used, but room temperature or slightly warmed cranberry sauce helps soften the brie and enhances the dish's texture.
- → How do I store leftover crostini?
Store crostini in an airtight container. For best quality, add brie and cranberry just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- → Is balsamic glaze essential?
Balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish. It’s optional but highly recommended to balance flavors and add depth.