If you’re ready to take your holiday hosting to the next level, these Cranberry Apple Brie Crostini are the perfect place to start. They’re elegant yet effortless — the kind of appetizer that looks like it came straight from a bistro, but you can whip it up in under 30 minutes.
Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet — crisp toasted baguette, gooey melted Brie, tart cranberries, and fresh apple slices. The result? A flavor and texture combo that’s absolutely irresistible.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: Tangy cranberries and crisp apples pair beautifully with creamy, rich Brie.
- Quick & Easy: Just 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Show-Stopping Presentation: Festive colors that are perfect for holiday parties.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A universally loved flavor combo — ideal for gatherings big or small.
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces
- 8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small wedges
- ½ cup fresh cranberries
- 1 apple, thinly sliced (Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
🔪 Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small saucepan
- Sharp knife
- Pastry brush (optional, for olive oil)
👩🍳 How to Make Cranberry Apple Brie Crostini
1. Toast the Crostini
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Toast for 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
2. Make the Cranberry Topping
In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook cranberries for 3–4 minutes until they start to soften and burst. Stir in honey or maple syrup and cook another 2–3 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. Set aside.
3. Melt the Brie
Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven and top each with a small piece of Brie. Return to the oven for 3–4 minutes, just until the Brie becomes warm and melty.
4. Assemble and Serve
Top each crostini with a few apple slices and a spoonful of cranberry topping. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and finish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a festive touch. Serve immediately while warm.
🍷 Serving Suggestions
These crostini pair beautifully with:
- A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or rich Merlot
- A charcuterie board or other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms
- A cozy butternut squash soup for an elegant first course
💡 Tips for Success
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and Brie make all the difference.
- Don’t overload: Keep toppings balanced so the crostini stay crisp.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the cranberry topping up to 3 days in advance and toast the baguette slices a few hours before serving.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- To Reheat: Place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
❓FAQ
Can I use dried cranberries?
Yes! Soak them in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes to rehydrate before using.
What can I use instead of Brie?
Try Camembert or goat cheese for a different but equally creamy flavor.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free baguette or crackers.
🎄 In Conclusion
These Cranberry Apple Brie Crostini are the perfect mix of festive colors, bright flavors, and creamy indulgence — an appetizer that’s both stunning and simple. Whether you’re hosting a cozy holiday dinner or a big celebration, they’re guaranteed to impress every guest at the table.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 120 | Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 4g