Brie and Roasted Grape Crostini is a sophisticated yet simple appetizer that combines the creamy richness of Brie cheese with the sweet, caramelized flavors of roasted grapes, all atop a crispy toasted baguette slice. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or any occasion that calls for an easy yet elegant bite, this crostini balances sweet, savory, and tangy elements beautifully.
Ingredients:
1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups red or black grapes, halved
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
8 oz Brie cheese, cut into small pieces
Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the crostini: Arrange the baguette slices on the baking sheet. Brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until golden and crisp.
Roast the grapes: While the crostini is baking, toss the halved grapes with a little olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Spread them out on a separate baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the grapes have softened and caramelized.
Assemble the crostini: Once the baguette slices are toasted, top each slice with a piece of Brie cheese. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese starts to melt slightly.
Top with roasted grapes: Remove the crostini from the oven and top each with the roasted grapes. Optionally, drizzle with a bit more honey and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.
Serve: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and enjoy!
Description:
These Brie and Roasted Grape Crostini are a perfect balance of flavors—salty, sweet, and creamy. The Brie provides a luxurious, smooth texture that pairs wonderfully with the honeyed sweetness of the roasted grapes and the slight tang from the balsamic vinegar. The toasted baguette adds the perfect crunch, making each bite satisfying.
Tips:
For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy texture.
You can use different cheeses if you prefer. Goat cheese or mascarpone would also work well in place of Brie.
If you’re in a rush, you can skip roasting the grapes and simply sauté them in a pan with a bit of honey and balsamic vinegar.
Make sure to use ripe, sweet grapes for the best caramelization during roasting.
Variations:
Herbed Crostini: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the baguette slices before toasting to infuse a fragrant element.
With Prosciutto: For a savory twist, add a slice of prosciutto underneath the Brie before topping with grapes.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a little crushed red pepper flakes on top of the grapes for a subtle heat contrast.
Other Fruit Options: Try substituting grapes with roasted figs or pears for different seasonal flavors.
Corrections:
Ensure the baguette slices are not too thick to guarantee they become crispy and can hold the toppings properly.
Be careful not to over-roast the grapes; they should soften and caramelize, not dry out.
Enjoy:
Enjoy these flavorful crostinis as an appetizer at your next gathering or a delightful snack. They are sure to impress your guests with their perfect blend of textures and flavors!