As the holidays approach, the kitchen becomes a symphony of scents, and amidst that joyful chaos, a delightful treat often steals the spotlight: Cranberry, Brie, and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze. I’ll never forget the first time I served these vibrant bites at our holiday gathering. Guests gathered in anticipation, drawn by the rich aroma of melting Brie and tangy cranberry mingling in the air.
Picture this: a crispy baguette slice topped with creamy cheese, savory prosciutto, and a luscious drizzle of balsamic glaze—each ingredient plays its part to create a harmonious blend of flavors that’s not only stunning but also a breeze to whip up. In just a short amount of time, you can impress friends and family alike with a dish that offers the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it the ultimate festive appetizer. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s create this indulgent holiday treat that promises to leave your guests raving!
Why Love Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini?
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of cranberry and green mint garnish create a visually striking appetizer that steals the show at any gathering.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a gourmet snack ready in under 30 minutes.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy Brie, salty prosciutto, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce provide a wonderful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds.
Holiday Cheer: Perfect for festive gatherings, this crowd-pleaser is sure to spark joy and conversation among your guests.
Customizable: Feel free to get creative! Experiment with different fruit toppings or nuts to make it your own.
These easy-to-make crostini are the ideal addition to your holiday spread and sure to impress. If you’re searching for more simple yet memorable appetizers, don’t miss out on our guide to delightful holiday bites!
Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini Ingredients
For the Crostini Base
- French Baguette – Provides the perfect crispy texture; fresh baguette is best, or use gluten-free bread for a lighter option.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps achieve a golden toast; opt for extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor.
For the Toppings
- Quality Prosciutto – Brings a savory, salty element; substitute with thinly sliced turkey if you prefer a lighter option.
- Brie Cheese – Creamy and rich, it balances sweet and savory flavors; try camembert or goat cheese if you’re feeling adventurous.
- McEwan’s Cranberry Sauce – Provides desired sweetness with hints of orange and lime zest; homemade or chunky cranberry sauce works well too.
- Chopped Walnuts (optional) – Adds delightful crunch and nuttiness; omit or substitute with pecans for variety.
For the Balsamic Glaze
- McEwan’s Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar – Essential for creating the perfect balsamic glaze; high-quality balsamic vinegar is a great substitute.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens and enhances the glaze; you can use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor twist.
Gather these ingredients to create your irresistible Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze!
How to Make Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
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Make Balsamic Glaze: In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Simmer on low heat, stirring often, until thickened (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool; it will thicken further.
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Prepare Crostini: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into 1/3 inch pieces on the bias. Coat lightly with olive oil and bake for 8 minutes until toasted and golden.
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Assemble Crostini: Slice Brie into thin pieces and place them on each toasted baguette slice. Top with prosciutto and a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce.
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Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with toasted walnuts (if using) and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or arugula if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful flavors!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of honey for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
Room Temperature: Enjoy your crostini fresh for the best flavor and texture. They are best consumed within a couple of hours of assembly to maintain their crispness.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the bread may lose some crunch, but they’ll still be tasty!
Freezer: To freeze, assemble the crostini without toppings, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Add fresh toppings after thawing and warming them in the oven at 375°F (190°C).
Reheating: To reheat, place the crostini on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This restores some of the crispiness while ensuring your Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze remains delightful!
Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Variations
Customize your Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze to suit your taste buds and elevate your festive spread!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free baguette instead of traditional bread to cater to gluten sensitivities. Your crostini will still be crispy and satisfying.
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Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and try a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for crunch without the nuts. They add an appealing texture while keeping it safe for nut allergies.
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Cheese Swap: Substitute Brie with goat cheese or camembert for a tangy flavor twist. Each cheese brings a unique character, making the crostini distinctly different yet equally delicious.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze for a touch of heat. This subtle spice enhances the overall flavor profile and delights adventurous palates.
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Fresh Fruit: Swap cranberry sauce for a fresh fig spread or sliced pears to bring a seasonal fruitiness. The change adds a refreshing note that’s a perfect pairing with the rich Brie.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the finished crostini for an aromatic herb boost. These herbs bring bright flavors and a touch of elegance to your dish.
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Savory Upgrade: Replace prosciutto with crispy bacon or smoked turkey. Each alternative offers a unique savory touch that complements the sweetness of the cranberry beautifully.
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Sweet Twist: Drizzle a little honey over the top before serving for extra sweetness. This small addition enhances the contrast of flavors, making each bite even more irresistible.
Feel free to explore these variations to make your crostini experience uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
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Slicing Technique: Use a serrated knife to cut the Brie smoothly, ensuring even and clean slices for a beautiful presentation.
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Maintain Crispness: Avoid warming the Brie before assembling to keep it firm and prevent it from making the baguette soggy.
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Toasting Precision: Ensure the baguette slices are well-toasted. A crispy base adds structural integrity, preventing the toppings from overpowering the crostini.
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Glaze Control: Allow the balsamic glaze to cool; it thickens as it sits, providing the perfect drizzle without overpowering the flavors of the crostini.
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Ingredient Quality: Choose high-quality ingredients, especially the prosciutto and Brie. Fresh, quality items make your Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze stand out at any gathering.
What to Serve with Cranberry, Brie, and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze?
Create a delightful holiday spread that truly shines by pairing these vibrant crostini with complementary sides and sips.
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Crispy Arugula Salad: Provides a peppery contrast to the sweetness of the crostini, adding a refreshing crunch to each bite. Toss with lemon vinaigrette for brightness.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: Herbed, cheesy mushrooms offer an earthy richness that beautifully echoes the umami of prosciutto, enhancing the entire meal experience. Guests will love the variety!
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Garlic Herb Cheese Spread: A creamy, savory addition that pairs exquisitely with the richness of Brie. Serve with crackers or fresh veggies for a tasty, cohesive appetizer table.
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Champagne or Prosecco: Bubbles elevate every celebration! The crispness of sparkling wine cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the flavors of your crostini.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: These roasted, sweet carrots will complement the savory undertones of the crostini, while their vivid color will brighten your festive table.
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Seasonal Fruit Platter: Vivid fruits like pomegranates, pears, and grapes bring an elegant flair, offering juicy bites that balance the richness of the appetizers.
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Classic Charcuterie Board: Create a feast with assorted meats, cheeses, and pickles that echo and enhance the flavors in your crostini, inviting guests to explore delightful bites.
Joining these delicious pairings with your Cranberry, Brie, and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze will guarantee smiles all around during your holiday gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry, Brie, and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy gourmet bites with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the balsamic glaze and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can slice the baguette and toast it up to 24 hours ahead, keeping the toasted slices in an airtight container to maintain their crispy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice the Brie, layer the prosciutto and cranberry sauce on each crostini, and drizzle with the prepared balsamic glaze for a delightful, stress-free appetizer that will impress your guests!
Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze, choose a fresh French baguette with a crispy crust for the best base. Look for Brie that is creamy and slightly soft but not overly runny. Quality prosciutto should have a rich flavor; try to find a well-aged variety. For the cranberry sauce, opt for one that has a good balance of sweetness and tartness, ideally with hints of citrus.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Store leftover crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. While the baguette may lose its crispness, they’ll still be delicious. To revive the flavors, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, until warmed through but still delightful.
Can I freeze the crostini?
Yes, you can indeed freeze them! I recommend assembling the crostini without toppings first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For the best results, add your toppings after thawing and warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to bring back that crispness.
What should I do if the balsamic glaze doesn’t thicken properly?
If your balsamic glaze isn’t thickening as expected, don’t worry. Simply continue to simmer it on low heat for a little longer, stirring often. It should reduce and thicken more. If it appears too thin even after a longer simmer, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) and whisk it into the glaze while it’s simmering. Allow it to cook for another minute or two until it reaches your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, consider using gluten-free bread instead of a baguette. If you or your guests have a dairy allergy, replacing Brie with a non-dairy cheese option might work well, though it might alter the flavor slightly. For the prosciutto, if you want a lighter option or cater to dietary restrictions, sliced turkey is a great alternative. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they fit your needs!
Irresistible Cranberry, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine 1 cup balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Simmer on low heat, stirring often, until thickened (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool; it will thicken further.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into 1/3 inch pieces on the bias. Coat lightly with olive oil and bake for 8 minutes until toasted and golden.
- Slice Brie into thin pieces and place them on each toasted baguette slice. Top with prosciutto and a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Sprinkle with toasted walnuts (if using) and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or arugula if desired. Serve immediately.