Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey isn’t just a recipe—it’s a seasonal favorite that always brings smiles. If you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss another crowd-pleasing dish.
The first time I served this at a winter gathering, I watched as the warm crostini disappeared before I could even set the tray down. The melty Brie, soft pear slices, tangy cranberry, and sweet thyme-kissed honey—it was a perfect bite. Even now, it’s my go-to when I want something quick yet special.
What makes this crostini shine is how beautifully it balances texture and flavor. Crisp baguette, creamy cheese, and fruit come together in a way that feels both comforting and refined. It’s easy to assemble, yet elegant enough to impress.
And it’s versatile, too. I often use leftover cranberry sauce from my Cranberry Brie and Thyme Puff Pastry Twists, or switch things up with fig jam like in this Warm Brie with Fig Jam, Rosemary and Almonds. No matter how you dress it, this dish fits any occasion—from cozy brunches to wine nights with friends.
Whether you’re entertaining or just craving something cozy, this crostini hits all the right notes.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Repertoire
There’s beauty in simplicity, and Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey proves it. With just a handful of ingredients, you get a dish that looks elegant, tastes luxurious, and takes very little time to make. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again — not just for holidays, but anytime you want to impress without the stress.
Whether you’re using up extra cranberry sauce or pairing with fresh pears in season, it delivers flavor far beyond the effort it takes. It’s festive, flexible, and guaranteed to be a hit every single time.
Ingredients & Preparation
The Simple Ingredients That Make It Shine
One of the reasons I love Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey is that it calls for just a few fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in balancing sweet, savory, and creamy textures into one perfect bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredient Breakdown
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Baguette | Sliced into ½-inch rounds, slightly toasted |
| Olive oil | Lightly brushed on each slice for crisping |
| Brie cheese (6 oz / 170 g) | Creamy and mild, melts beautifully |
| Ripe pear | Thinly sliced for sweetness and texture |
| Cranberry sauce or relish (2 tbsp) | Tart and fruity—use homemade if possible |
| Honey (1 tbsp) | Drizzle on top for a floral finish |
| Fresh thyme (½ tsp) | Adds earthy, herbal aroma |
| Fresh ground black pepper | To taste, for a subtle kick |
Together, these ingredients create layers of flavor that taste like autumn in every bite. The creamy Brie melts just enough to cradle the cranberry and pear, while the thyme honey ties it all together with unexpected warmth.
Tools & Easy Substitutions
You don’t need anything fancy for this crostini—just a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a sharp knife for slicing your baguette and pear. A small spoon or brush helps with the honey drizzle.
Can’t find cranberry relish? You could substitute it with pomegranate molasses, fig jam, or even a dollop of the spiced compote from my Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese. Not a fan of thyme? Try fresh rosemary or skip the herbs entirely.
Brie too rich for your taste? Creamy goat cheese works beautifully too—just like in these Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans and Cranberry Drizzle, where the balance of richness and fruit is key.
With ingredients this straightforward, the real magic lies in how you bring them together—which we’ll cover next in the step-by-step instructions.
Print
Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 16 crostini
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey is an elegant, sweet-and-savory appetizer made with crisp baguette slices, creamy Brie, ripe pears, cranberry relish, and a drizzle of honey infused with fresh thyme. Perfect for holidays, brunch, or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch (1.3 cm) rounds
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
• 6 oz (170 g) Brie cheese, sliced
• 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp (30 g) cranberry sauce or cranberry relish
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey
• ½ tsp (1 g) fresh thyme leaves
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange baguette slices on the sheet and lightly brush each with olive oil.
3. Toast in the oven for 7–8 minutes, until golden and crisp.
4. Top each slice with Brie and a thin pear slice. Return to oven for 3–4 minutes until cheese softens.
5. Remove from oven. Spoon a small amount of cranberry sauce over each crostini.
6. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
7. Finish with a touch of freshly ground black pepper.
8. Serve warm on a platter or wooden board.
Notes
– Use ripe but firm pears like Bosc or Anjou for best texture.
– Fig jam can replace cranberry sauce for a sweeter variation.
– Thyme can be substituted with rosemary or omitted entirely.
– Best served warm, straight from the oven.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Cooking Instructions & Tips
Step-by-Step: How to Make the Perfect Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey
Once you have your ingredients prepped, the rest comes together effortlessly. Here’s how to make these irresistible crostini from start to finish.
Step 1: Slice and Toast the Baguette
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice your baguette into ½-inch rounds and place them in a single layer. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil. Toast in the oven for 7–8 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Step 2: Layer with Brie and Pear
Remove the tray from the oven. Add a slice of Brie to each crostini. Top with a thin slice of pear. Return to the oven for 3–4 minutes, just until the Brie softens.
Step 3: Add Cranberry and Honey
Remove the tray again. Spoon about ½ teaspoon of cranberry sauce or relish onto each crostini. Drizzle lightly with honey and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Finish with a twist of freshly ground black pepper. Arrange on a serving board and serve immediately while warm.
For presentation, I often pair these with other small bites like my Pistachio-Crusted Brie Bites or even a few Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme to round out the board.
Tips & Tricks to Nail It Every Time
– Don’t over-toast your bread in the first step—it’ll go back in the oven later.
– Use ripe but firm pears for the best bite and structure.
– Add the cranberry after baking to keep its texture bright and fresh.
– For a savory twist, add a tiny smear of Dijon mustard under the Brie before baking.
Little details like these are what take this crostini from good to unforgettable.
Serving, Storing & Pairing
What to Serve with Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey
There’s something undeniably special about serving these crostini warm, just as the Brie is beginning to soften and the honey glistens under candlelight. Whether you’re hosting a fall dinner, planning a wine night, or curating a cozy holiday spread, these bites belong at the center.
For a small bites board, I love pairing them with something earthy and indulgent like these Baked Brie with Roasted Plums and Thyme, which bring out the floral notes in the thyme honey beautifully. On the lighter side, consider fresh grapes, apple slices, or marcona almonds to add crunch and contrast.
A chilled glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay, works wonderfully. If you lean toward reds, go for something fruit-forward like Pinot Noir to complement the cranberry and Brie.
You could even plate these crostini alongside a warm salad, such as one with roasted squash and arugula, or serve them as part of a brunch spread with quiche and herbal tea. Their versatility is truly one of their best features.
How to Store and Reheat
If you somehow end up with leftovers (unlikely!), place them in a single layer in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, arrange the crostini on a baking sheet and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5–6 minutes—just until the Brie begins to melt again.
Keep in mind, the pears may soften slightly after chilling, but the flavors deepen overnight. I often repurpose extras as a savory-sweet topping for toast or mix them into salads alongside Crispy Flatbread with Brie & Cranberries for a beautiful next-day lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance—slice the baguette, pears, and Brie—but it’s best to assemble and bake them just before serving. This ensures the crostini stays crisp and the cheese melts perfectly.
What’s the best type of pear to use?
Use ripe but firm varieties like Bosc or Anjou pears. They hold their shape during baking and add just the right amount of sweetness without turning mushy.
Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?
Absolutely. While Brie is traditional for this crostini, creamy goat cheese or even Camembert work beautifully. Just keep the soft texture and mild flavor profile in mind when substituting.
Is cranberry relish better than sauce?
Both work well! Cranberry relish adds a bit more texture and zest, while sauce is smoother and slightly sweeter. Use what you have, or try both to see which you prefer.
Can I serve this cold?
This crostini is best served warm, just after baking. However, it can be enjoyed at room temperature if needed—just note that the Brie will be firmer and less melty.
Conclusion: A Bite Worth Sharing
Pear, Brie and Cranberry Crostini with Thyme Honey brings together everything I love about entertaining—simplicity, elegance, and flavor that lingers. With just a few thoughtful ingredients and a quick bake, you can create something memorable for guests, friends, or even just yourself.
If you’re curious to explore a slightly different take, I recommend checking out this lovely variation from Sweet & Savoury Pursuits. It offers a fresh angle and proves that there are so many ways to enjoy the beautiful balance of pears and Brie.
Looking for more easy, impressive bites? You’ll also enjoy my Mini Phyllo Cups with Brie, Pecans and Cranberry Drizzle—a great make-ahead option—and the Golden Baked Brie with Caramelized Apples and Thyme, which is a true fall centerpiece.