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Crispy Crostini Delight with Balsamic Cranberries & Brie

A delectable appetizer featuring crispy crostini topped with warm Brie and sweet-tart balsamic cranberries, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crostini
  • 1 small small baguette or skinny Italian loaf Choose bread with a tight crumb.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For brushing the bread.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries Simmer until just bursting.
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Adds tangy flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons sugar or maple syrup To sweeten the cranberries.
  • 1 pinch salt Enhances flavor.
  • 8 ounces Brie cheese Keep cool until ready to slice.
For Garnishing (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios or fresh thyme To garnish the crostini.
  • 1 teaspoon honey For drizzling.

Method
 

Preparation of Crostini
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices.
  3. Brush both sides of the bread slices lightly with olive oil.
  4. Arrange on a sheet pan and toast in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping once, until golden.
Preparing the Cranberry Topping
  1. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar or maple syrup, and salt.
  2. Simmer over medium heat, stirring often until the berries are bursting and the sauce is syrupy.
  3. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assembling the Crostini
  1. Place slices of Brie on top of the toasted crostini.
  2. Return to the oven for 1-2 minutes until the Brie is soft and melty.
  3. Top each crostini with the cranberry mixture.
  4. Garnish with chopped pistachios or fresh thyme, and drizzle with honey if desired.
Serving
  1. Serve the crostini warm on a wooden board, allowing guests to customize with additional toppings.

Notes

Toast the baguette slices a day in advance. Store in an airtight container. Cook the cranberries up to three days ahead and reheat before serving. Brie can stay wrapped in the fridge until use and should be brought to room temperature before serving.