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Cranberry Apple Brie Crostini: A Delicious Holiday Appetizer Recipe

Enjoy the festive taste of Cranberry Apple Brie Crostini, featuring crispy baguette slices topped with creamy Brie and a sweet-tart cranberry apple mixture. Perfect for parties or a cozy snack!

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12-15 crostini 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced (preferably Granny Smith)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 8 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for added crunch)
  • Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
  • Olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, diced apple, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will start to pop and break down, creating a lovely sauce.
  4. After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. The sauce will thicken as it cools. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can mash it lightly with a fork or potato masher.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  6. While the oven is heating, arrange the sliced baguette rounds on a baking sheet.
  7. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on one side to help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
  8. Once the oven is ready, place the baking sheet in and toast the baguette slices for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
  9. After the baguette slices are toasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
  10. On each toasted slice, place a slice of Brie cheese. The warmth from the bread will start to melt the cheese slightly.
  11. Spoon a generous amount of the cranberry apple mixture over the Brie.
  12. If using walnuts, sprinkle a few chopped pieces on top of the cranberry apple mixture for added texture and flavor.
  13. Once all the crostini are assembled, return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to help the Brie melt further and meld the flavors together.
  14. Keep an eye on them to ensure the cheese doesn’t overcook; you want it gooey and delicious!
  15. After baking, remove the crostini from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
  16. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves over the top of each crostini.
  17. Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and serve warm.

Notes

  • The cranberry apple topping can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat slightly before assembling the crostini.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or cream cheese, for a unique twist.
  • For added sweetness, consider drizzling honey over the top before serving.
  • Author: Aria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes