7 Delightful Crispy Crostini with Balsamic Roasted Cranberries and Brie

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If you’re searching for a holiday appetizer that’s as elegant as it is easy, Crispy Crostini with Balsamic Roasted Cranberries and Creamy Brie absolutely deserves a spot on your festive table. This recipe is the definition of fun, festive, and flavorful finger food — all dressed up and ready to impress.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy holiday dinner or a casual wine night with friends, these crostini deliver rich, creamy, tangy deliciousness in every single bite. Oh, and if you want this recipe sent straight to your inbox so you can keep it handy for your next gathering, be sure to subscribe below!

Why You’ll Love These Crostini with Balsamic Roasted Cranberries and Creamy Brie

There’s something about the combo of crispy bread, luscious brie, and sweet-tart cranberries that feels like a little celebration in your mouth. Here’s why I think you’re going to fall head over heels for these:

• Elegant but effortless – They look like something out of a high-end catering menu, but they come together in under 30 minutes.

• A beautiful balance of flavors – The balsamic-roasted cranberries bring brightness, the brie offers creaminess, and the crostini? Crunchy perfection.

• Perfect for parties – Easy to prep ahead, serve warm or at room temp, and no forks required.

• Seasonal magic – Cranberries and rosemary bring that festive holiday flair.

What Do These Crostini Taste Like?

They’re bold, balanced, and anything but boring!! The creamy brie melts just enough to cradle the juicy, tangy cranberries, while the rosemary adds a whisper of earthy pine that feels so right for the holidays. And the crostini? Buttery, crisp, and golden – the perfect base to hold all that goodness.

I’m kicking myself for not having shot it fresh from the oven – the cranberries bubble and burst into a sticky, ruby-red glaze that smells like the holidays came early.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Quick and beginner-friendly

• Make-ahead friendly – You can roast the cranberries and toast the crostini ahead of time.

• Customizable – See below for swaps and add-ins!

• Vegetarian – Great for a mixed-crowd holiday table

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/2 French baguette, sliced thinly

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 4 ounces triple cream brie, sliced

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh thyme

• Orange zest (adds a bright twist!)

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper

• Mixing bowls with lids

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Herb scissors or a sharp chef’s knife

• Pastry brush

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!

• Bread: No baguette? Try ciabatta or sourdough sliced thinly.

• Cheese: Camembert or goat cheese are fabulous alternatives to brie.

• Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup can be used in place of sugar.

• Herbs: No rosemary? Use thyme or sage instead.

• Fruit: Add a handful of chopped figs or pomegranate seeds to the cranberry mix for extra dimension.

How to Make Crispy Crostini with Balsamic Roasted Cranberries and Creamy Brie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Baguette Slices

Mix melted butter and olive oil in a small bowl. Brush both sides of the baguette slices and arrange them on a baking sheet. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Mixture

In another bowl, combine cranberries, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and chopped rosemary. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Roast

Place the cranberries in the oven and roast for 5 minutes.

Then, slide in the tray of baguette slices. Roast both for an additional 6 minutes. Flip the bread slices and roast 4-6 more minutes, until crisp and golden.

By now, your cranberries should be bursting and syrupy. Remove both trays from the oven.

Step 5: Assemble the Crostini

Top each toasted baguette slice with a piece of brie. Spoon roasted cranberries over the cheese. Garnish with fresh thyme if using.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

What to Serve with These Holiday Crostini

These beauties play well with others! Try pairing them with:

• A sparkling rosé or pinot noir

• A festive cheese board or charcuterie spread

• A cozy butternut squash soup

• Holiday punch or a spiced mulled wine

Tips for Perfect Crostini

• Don’t skip the parchment paper! It prevents the cranberries from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

• Use day-old bread for best texture – it holds up better and gets extra crispy.

• Don’t overload with toppings – a little brie and a spoonful of cranberry go a long way.

• Make it mini! Slice smaller rounds for bite-sized versions perfect for parties.

How to Store and Reheat

Got leftovers? Lucky you!

• Storage: Store assembled crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheat: Place in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp back up and melt the cheese slightly.

• Cranberries-only: The cranberry mixture can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored separately.

 

FAQs About This Crostini Recipe

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! No need to thaw them first — just toss them with the vinegar and sugar and roast as directed.

Can I prepare the crostini ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the cranberries and toast the baguette slices in advance. Just assemble right before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.

Is it okay to serve these crostini cold?

They’re best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, but still taste great chilled if you’re short on time or fridge-storing leftovers.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Totally! Just swap in a gluten-free baguette or crackers for a gluten-friendly version everyone can enjoy.

What’s the best type of brie to use for crostini?

A triple cream brie works best here for its ultra-creamy texture and rich flavor, but any soft-ripened brie will do.

Can I use another fruit besides cranberries?

Yes! Try roasted cherries, figs, or pomegranate arils for a fun twist on the classic flavor combo.

How can I keep crostini from getting soggy?

Make sure your baguette slices are toasted until golden and crisp before adding the toppings, and assemble just before serving.

What wine pairs well with cranberry brie crostini?

Sparkling wines, Pinot Noir, or a fruity rosé pair beautifully with the tangy-sweet cranberries and creamy brie.

Can I serve this as part of a holiday charcuterie board?

Absolutely! These crostini make a stunning and delicious addition to any holiday appetizer spread or grazing table.

Final Thoughts on These Cranberry and Brie Crostini

Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy night in, these Crispy Crostini with Balsamic Roasted Cranberries and Creamy Brie deliver serious flavor with minimal effort. They’re seasonal, simple, and seriously stunning.

If you loved these, here are a few more cranberry-inspired favorites you’ve just got to try next:

• Honey Whipped Feta Cranberry Crostini – Another showstopper with a creamy twist.

• Cranberry Orange Greek Yogurt Granola Bars – Perfect for healthy snacking with holiday flair.

• Overnight Blueberry Baked Oatmeal – Cozy, wholesome, and ideal for the morning after your holiday feast.

Share the Love!

Tried this recipe? I’d be over-the-moon if you left a review or snapped a photo and tagged it on Pinterest! I LOVE seeing your creations — and you can find more ideas on my board right here:
 Follow on Pinterest for more festive recipes, appetizers, and sweet treats to keep the holidays delicious.

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