Description
This Cranberry Crostini recipe perfectly combines the tartness of homemade cranberry sauce with a creamy rosemary-infused cheese spread atop crisp toasted baguette slices. It’s an elegant and easy appetizer ideal for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
Cranberry Sauce
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water
Cheese Spread
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool completely.
- Prepare the Baguette: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly drizzle them with olive oil. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the slices are golden and crispy.
- Mix the Cheese Spread: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed and the spread is smooth.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous layer of the rosemary cream cheese mixture on each toasted baguette slice. Then, spoon a portion of the cooled cranberry sauce on top of the cheese spread.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle additional fresh rosemary on top for extra aroma and garnish. Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Adjust sugar in cranberry sauce according to your preference for sweetness.
- Use fresh rosemary for best flavor; dried rosemary can be substituted but use less due to its intensity.
- The cranberry sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
- Serve crostini immediately after assembling to keep the bread crisp.
- For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry crostini, cranberry sauce appetizer, rosemary cream cheese, holiday appetizer, easy crostini, festive finger food
