These Goat Cheese Cranberry Crostini are a perfect little treat! With creamy goat cheese and sweet-tart cranberries on crispy bread, they are a crowd-pleaser for sure.
They come together quickly, making them my go-to for last-minute gatherings. Plus, who can resist that lovely combination of flavors? I always make extra because they’re just that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette gives a perfect crunch. If you’re looking for something different, use ciabatta or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
Goat Cheese: This cheese’s tangy flavor is what makes this dish special. If you don’t like goat cheese, cream cheese works well too, or a mild feta for a different twist.
Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce adds great texture and flavor. If it’s off-season, you can use jam or even homemade cranberry-lime relish as alternatives.
Fresh Herbs: Mint and rosemary really elevate this dish. You could use basil or parsley for a different taste. Feel free to skip if you don’t have herbs on hand.
How Can You Toast the Baguette to Perfection?
Toasting the baguette properly gives it that satisfying crunch crucial for this crostini. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot enough to crisp the bread.
- Brush each slice of baguette lightly with olive oil for flavor and extra golden color. Don’t drown them in oil!
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet with space in between for even toasting.
- Toast for 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them. You want them golden at the edges but not burnt!
After toasting, let them cool slightly before adding the toppings. This keeps the bread crispy and prevents sogginess from the ingredients!
Goat Cheese Cranberry Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (preferably whole berry)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as mint or rosemary leaves)
- Olive oil, for brushing the bread
- Optional: a pinch of black pepper or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making it a total of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for toasting the baguette slices to a nice crispy finish.
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Arrange the sliced baguette pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure you leave a little space between each slice for even toasting. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil using a pastry brush. This adds flavor and helps them crisp up beautifully.
3. Toast the Bread:
Now it’s time to pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Toast the bread for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the bread is crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
4. Cool the Slices:
Once toasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the baguette slices cool slightly. This helps them maintain their crunch when you add the toppings.
5. Spread the Goat Cheese:
With a butter knife or a small spatula, spread a generous layer of softened goat cheese onto each toasted bread slice. Don’t be shy with it—the creaminess is part of the magic!
6. Add Cranberry Sauce:
Top the goat cheese with a spoonful of cranberry sauce. This sweet-tart topping complements the creamy cheese and adds a lovely pop of color!
7. Garnish:
For a touch of freshness, garnish each crostini with a small leaf of fresh herb, like mint or rosemary. It not only looks beautiful but adds a burst of flavor!
8. Optional Additions:
If you’d like, sprinkle a pinch of black pepper on top or drizzle with honey for an extra flavor kick. The choice is yours!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your Goat Cheese Cranberry Crostini immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. Enjoy them as a delightful appetizer or a tasty snack—you might just need to make extra!
This recipe beautifully pairs creamy goat cheese with tangy cranberry sauce on a crispy toasted baguette for an irresistible bite! Enjoy every delicious moment.
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought cranberry sauce is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a quality whole berry sauce for the best texture and flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these crostini gluten-free, simply substitute the French baguette with a gluten-free bread or crackers. Ensure they have a good structure to hold up the toppings.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the components ahead! Toast the baguette slices and spread the goat cheese in advance, then store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the bread and toppings separate to maintain crunchiness, and reassemble before enjoying again!
