Description
A delightful appetizer featuring crispy toasted French baguette slices topped with creamy melted brie and a tangy-sweet topping of balsamic roasted cranberries infused with fresh thyme. Perfect for holiday gatherings or elegant entertaining, these crostini combine savory, sweet, and tart flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Topping
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Roasted Cranberries
- 6 ounces fresh cranberries
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 teaspoon dried)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheese and Garnish
- 6 ounces brie cheese, sliced
- Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and toast the baguette: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the sliced baguette rounds on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil. Toast them in the oven for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare and roast the cranberries: While the bread is toasting, place the fresh cranberries in a small baking dish. Add balsamic vinegar, maple syrup or honey, thyme leaves, and salt. Toss well to coat the cranberries evenly. Roast them in the oven alongside the baguette for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the cranberries soften and start to burst.
- Add brie and assemble crostini: Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven and place a slice of brie on each slice. Spoon the warm roasted balsamic cranberries over the brie-topped crostini.
- Melt the brie: Return the assembled crostini to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, just long enough for the brie to soften and begin melting.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the perfect combination of crispy bread, creamy cheese, and tangy roasted cranberries.
Notes
- If fresh cranberries are unavailable, you can use cranberry sauce as a convenient shortcut.
- For a different flavor profile, goat cheese or cream cheese can be substituted for brie.
- This recipe makes an elegant appetizer ideal for holiday parties or special occasions.
