These tasty cranberry chutney crostini are a festive bite-sized treat! Crunchy bread topped with sweet and tangy cranberry chutney brings joy to every party plate.
There’s something fun about how easy they are to whip up. Plus, everyone loves a good crunchy snack! I always make extra because they disappear fast! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or French Bread: A small baguette works best for crostini. If you can’t find one, French bread or even ciabatta would do well. Just make sure you slice it to about 1/2 inch for that perfect crunch.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a vibrant flavor, but if they’re out of season, you can use frozen cranberries. Just thaw and drain them before cooking!
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar balances the tartness of cranberries. For a healthier twist, try using honey or maple syrup, but start with a bit less since they’re sweeter.
Cheese: Cream cheese gives a nice creamy texture, but goat cheese adds a unique tang. You could even use ricotta for a lighter option!
Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs are lovely for garnish. If you don’t have these, you can omit them or use dried herbs for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Crostini Are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that ideal crispy texture for your crostini is easy! Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even toasting.
- Brush both sides of the bread slices lightly with olive oil. Too much oil can make them soggy.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, but keep an eye on them! Flip them halfway for an even golden-brown color.
- When they’re crispy, take them out and let them cool slightly before adding toppings. This keeps them crunchy!
Now you’re all set to make tasty cranberry chutney crostini that will impress everyone at your gathering! Enjoy!
Cranberry Chutney Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 small baguette or French bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing the bread)
For the Cranberry Chutney:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped apple (optional, for texture)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or shallot
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard seeds or 1 teaspoon whole mustard seeds
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 4 oz cream cheese or goat cheese, softened
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes of active prep time and then about 10-15 minutes to cook the chutney. After that, you’ll have about 8-10 minutes for baking the crostini. Altogether, you’ll have a tasty appetizer ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberry Chutney:
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, chopped apple, onion or shallot, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, ground cinnamon, mustard seeds, and a pinch of salt. Cook this mixture over medium heat while stirring occasionally. You will see the cranberries burst and the mix will begin to thicken up. This should take around 10-15 minutes. When it’s ready, remove the saucepan from heat and let the chutney cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Crostini Base:
While your chutney cools, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a baking sheet, arrange your sliced baguette pieces in a single layer. Brush both sides with olive oil, giving them a light coat. Bake in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remember to turn the slices halfway through to ensure they’re evenly toasted.
3. Assemble the Crostini:
Now that everything is ready, let’s build our crostini! Take each toasted bread slice and spread a generous amount of cream cheese or goat cheese on top. Add about a tablespoon of the cool cranberry chutney over the cheese. For a lovely finish, garnish with a small sprig of rosemary or thyme, and sprinkle a few mustard seeds on top for a delightful presentation!
4. Serve:
Arrange all your beautiful crostini on a serving platter and enjoy them right away! They make a fantastic fresh, crunchy, and festive appetizer that will impress your family and friends!
This recipe beautifully blends the tangy sweetness of homemade cranberry chutney with creamy cheese atop crunchy toasted bread—perfect for holiday celebrations or any gathering when a flavorful bite is just what you need!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Sauce Instead of Making Chutney?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought cranberry sauce. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness, as some sauces are sweeter than homemade chutney. Add a touch of mustard for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftover Chutney?
Any leftover chutney can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it again, and it makes a great topping for sandwiches or grilled meats too!
Can I Prepare Crostini in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crostini in advance! Toast the bread slices ahead of time, and keep them stored in an airtight container. Just assemble with the cheese and chutney right before serving to maintain their crunch!
What Other Toppings Can I Use on My Crostini?
The possibilities are endless! Try adding sliced figs, brie cheese, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist. You can also swap out the cranberry chutney for other fruit chutneys or relishes based on what you have on hand!
