The combination of crispy crostini with rich, creamy Brie and sweet, tangy balsamic roasted cranberries make an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
Olive oil, for brushing
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
Fresh rosemary or thyme, for garnish
Salt & pepper to taste
Preparation
Prepare the Crostini:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each slice of baguette with olive oil and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crostini are golden brown and crisp.
Make the Balsamic Roasted Cranberries:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to coat the cranberries evenly. Spread the cranberry mixture in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries are soft and slightly caramelized. You’ll notice the cranberries begin to burst open as they roast.
Assemble the Crostini:
Place a slice of Brie on each piece of crostini. Spoon a generous amount of balsamic-roasted cranberries over the Brie. Return the crostini to the oven for 3-5 minutes, just long enough for the Brie to soften and slightly melt. Finish & Serve:
Once the Brie has melted, remove the crostini from the oven. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch. Serve immediately while the crostini is warm and crispy, and enjoy the beautiful blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors.
