Festive Cranberry Brie Crostini Bites
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Let's Talk Festive Bites!
Ever find yourself stuck for party appetizers ? Oh my gosh, same! But I've got just the thing. I am excited to share a cranberry crostini recipe! Trust me, it is a game changer.
These little bites are sweet, savoury, and totally scream festive.
What's the Story with Cranberry Brie Crostini ?
Honestly, I think these brie and cranberry bites are a modern twist on classic flavours. These festive appetizers are inspired by traditional holiday crostini recipe s.
They're dead easy to make! This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes. It makes about 24 crostini. Perfect for sharing.
..or not!
Why You'll Love This Cranberry Sauce Appetizer
The best part? Cranberries are packed with antioxidants! Seriously, you can indulge a little and feel good about it. Serve them at your next Christmas crostini party or a fancy "elevenses.
" What makes this easy appetizer recipes stand out is the rosemary! It gives a sophisticated, herby kick. It elevates the whole flavour profile.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need for this amazing cranberry crostini with rosemary recipe.
Let's Talk Ingredients & Equipment for the Cranberry Crostini
Alright, let's dive into what you need to make these amazing cranberry brie crostini . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward. No fancy pants ingredients here! This holiday crostini recipe is designed to be simple.
Main Ingredients: Get Ready!
Here's what you'll need, measured like a pro:
- Baguette: 1 , sliced into about 24 (1/2 inch) rounds.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml).
- Cranberries: 12 ounces (340g). Fresh or frozen, doesn't matter.
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100g).
- Water: 1/4 cup (60ml).
- Orange zest: 1 tablespoon .
- Ground cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon .
- Brie cheese: 4 ounces (115g). Get a good, ripe one!
- Fresh rosemary: 2 tablespoons , chopped finely.
For the brie, aim for a good quality one. You know, the kind that's nice and soft and creamy. Quality brie really makes all the difference in these brie and cranberry bites .
It should be soft at room temperature.
Seasoning Secrets
The magic's in the spices! A little cinnamon is key for that festive vibe. The cranberry crostini with rosemary also benefits from a little bit of rosemary.
If you don’t have rosemary, you can skip it. Trust me, it works!.
Orange zest is optional, but it lifts the cranberry sauce like a champ. Instead you can also use lemon zest. Seriously, try it!
Essential Equipment: Don't Panic!
We're keeping it basic, yeah?
- Baking sheet.
- Small saucepan.
- Sharp knife.
No need for a fancy mixer. A good old baking sheet and a saucepan are all you need. If you don't have a baking sheet, a roasting tin will work too.
Honestly, these easy appetizer recipes don't need much.
So there you have it the down low on what you need to create these festive appetizers . Now go forth and baked brie appetizer like a boss! Think of these as Christmas crostini .
Cooking Method: Bringing Your Cranberry Crostini to Life
Alright, let's talk about turning that recipe into a delicious reality. We're making festive appetizers , particularly cranberry brie crostini , and trust me, it's easier than fitting into your skinny jeans after Christmas dinner.
Prep Steps: Gettin' Organised, innit?
Essential mise en place is key. Basically, chop everything before you start cooking. It’s like getting your ducks in a row.
Get your baguette sliced, brie ready, and cranberry sauce ingredients measured out. Honestly, organisation is half the battle, especially when Auntie Mildred's breathing down your neck waiting for holiday crostini recipe .
For time saving, use pre-sliced baguette if you can find it. Life's too short to slice bread. And don't forget safety.
Watch those fingers when slicing! We don't want any A&E trips before the party.
step-by-step: Crostini Creation Time!
- Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) .
- Brush those baguette slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This adds flavour, innit.
- Bake them for 8- 10 minutes , until golden brown. Watch them closely, burnt toast is nobody's friend!
- Combine cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and cinnamon in a saucepan. This cranberry sauce appetizer will be the star.
- Simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens, about 10- 12 minutes .
- Top each crostini with a piece of brie. Let it sit at room temp beforehand, it will soften up a bit.
- Spoon that gorgeous cranberry sauce on top.
- Sprinkle with fresh rosemary and serve. Boom! Christmas crostini magic.
Pro Tips: Nailing It Like a Pro
First off, don't overcook the sauce. It thickens as it cools. I did this once and ended up with cranberry fudge.
Not ideal. Also, easy appetizer recipes can still be impressive. Think presentation. Arrange your brie and cranberry bites nicely. It makes all the difference.
And don't be afraid to add a little extra rosemary. It gives a nice aroma. This cranberry crostini with rosemary will elevate your appetisers game.
You can make the cranberry sauce a day ahead. Store it in the fridge, and it is a total lifesaver.
Just make sure it's properly chilled before serving. It will ensure it's super easy to make.
Remember, making party appetizers should be fun. A little mishap or two? Laugh it off. In the end, you will have baked brie appetizer that everyone is sure to love.
Recipe Notes
Right then, let's talk about how to make these cranberry crostini absolute bangers. Honestly, these cranberry brie crostini are so easy, even I can't mess them up, and that's saying something!
Ace Serving Suggestions for Your Festive Appetizers
Okay, so picture this: You've slaved away (well, 30 minutes, but who's counting?) and now you need to make these holiday crostini recipe pop.
Get a nice wooden board. Arrange the cranberry sauce appetizer artfully. Honestly, presentation is half the battle! I like to pair these brie and cranberry bites with a glass of bubbly prosecco.
Makes you feel all fancy, doesn't it? Or a good glass of crisp white wine would be great! And, for the non-drinkers, a sparkling cranberry juice is divine.
It's all about the festive vibe, innit? Maybe add a few sprigs of rosemary on the side for extra points.
Storage Tips: Keep 'em Fresh!
Right, so these Christmas crostini are best served fresh, straight out of the oven. But, if you've got leftovers (unlikely, but hey!), pop them in an airtight container in the fridge.
They'll be good for a day or two. I wouldn't recommend freezing them, as the baguette will get a bit soggy.
But, if you've pre-made the cranberry sauce, that can be frozen. Just defrost it thoroughly before using. Reheating isn't ideal, but if you must, a quick blast in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for a minute or two will do the trick.
Just don't overdo it!
Variations: Put Your Own Spin on It!
Fancy a change? Swap the brie for goat cheese for a tangier baked brie appetizer . Ooh, or add some chopped walnuts to the cranberry crostini with rosemary for a bit of crunch! Nutty goodness, I tell you!
For a vegetarian friendly option, make sure your baguette is vegan, if you need a quick recipe this is the perfect of easy appetizer recipes .
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Each cranberry crostini clocks in at roughly 75 calories. So you can enjoy a few without feeling too guilty. There's a bit of protein from the Brie, some healthy fats, and a touch of sweetness from the cranberries.
These little party appetizers are a delightful treat, but like everything, enjoy them in moderation, yeah?
So, there you have it! Get creative, have fun, and enjoy your delicious cranberry crostini . I know you'll impress everyone with these! They are the best way to get everyone feeling festive.
Go on, give them a go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cranberry sauce for these cranberry crostini ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the cranberry sauce a day or two in advance is a brilliant idea. It allows the flavours to meld together beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it'll be ready to go when you are think of it as your own little Mary Berry time saving trick!
What's the best way to store leftover cranberry crostini?
While cranberry crostini are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers. Keep in mind the crostini may soften a little. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, a quick warm-up in the oven will help crisp them up.
I can't find Brie, what's a good substitute for these cranberry crostini?
Not to worry, there are some great alternatives! Camembert is a fantastic substitute for Brie, offering a similar creamy texture and mild flavour. You could also use a good quality goat cheese for a tangier twist. Just remember to remove the rind before using. Don't let a missing Brie stop you, keep calm and carry on!
Are there any variations I can try with this cranberry crostini recipe?
Oh, plenty! For a bit of crunch, add chopped toasted walnuts to the cranberry sauce. You could also swap the Brie for goat cheese for a tangier taste. For a festive touch, sprinkle a few pomegranate seeds on top along with the rosemary. Get creative and put your own personal stamp on this recipe!
How can I make vegan cranberry crostini?
Making a vegan version is easier than you might think! Simply substitute the Brie with a vegan brie alternative there are some fantastic ones available these days. Also, make sure your baguette is vegan friendly (some contain milk or eggs). The rest of the recipe is naturally vegan, so you're good to go!
Festive Cranberry Brie Crostini Bites
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 75 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |