Description
Delight in these Roasted Balsamic Cranberry and Brie Crostini, a perfect blend of tart roasted cranberries, creamy triple cream brie, and crispy baguette slices. This elegant appetizer combines sweet, savory, and herbaceous flavors with a satisfying crunch, great for holiday gatherings or sophisticated snack time.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter Mixture
- 2 Tablespoons butter (melted)
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 French baguette (sliced thin)
Roasted Cranberry Topping
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 Tablespoon rosemary
Cheese and Garnish
- 4 ounces triple cream brie
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting the cranberries and toasting the baguette slices.
- Prepare the bread slices: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter and olive oil. Using a brush, coat both sides of the thin baguette slices evenly with the mixture. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and set aside.
- Mix the cranberry topping: In another small bowl, combine the fresh cranberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and rosemary, stirring gently to mix. Spread the cranberry mixture evenly on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Roast cranberries and toast bread: Place the baking sheet with the cranberries in the oven and roast for 5 minutes. Then, add the baking sheet with the buttered baguette slices to the oven. Roast both trays together for an additional 6 minutes. Remove the bread tray, flip the slices over, and return them to the oven for another 4-6 minutes until the bread is golden and crisp, while the cranberries should burst with their juices.
- Assemble crostini: Remove both trays from the oven. Top each toasted baguette slice with a slice of triple cream brie, followed by a spoonful of the warm roasted cranberry mixture. Optionally garnish with fresh thyme for added aroma and color. Serve immediately or chill cranberries overnight and store crostini separately to assemble just before serving.
Notes
- For easier cleanup, line the baking sheet with parchment paper before roasting the cranberries.
- The cranberries can be prepared a day in advance and chilled to enhance flavors and ease assembly.
- Use a good quality triple cream brie for a rich and creamy texture that complements the tart cranberries perfectly.
- Optional thyme garnish adds a subtle herbaceous note, but can be omitted if not available.
- The crostini are best enjoyed warm, but can also be served at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
