Save I wasn't planning to make appetizers that December afternoon, but my sister called in a panic—her guests were arriving in an hour and she had nothing ready. I grabbed a baguette, some Brie from the fridge, and a jar of cranberry sauce, and twenty minutes later we had a platter that looked like it came from a caterer. The compliments didn't stop all night, and neither did the requests for the recipe.
The first time I served these at our book club holiday party, someone asked if I'd trained in France. I laughed so hard I nearly spilled my wine. These crostini have since become my go-to whenever I need something that tastes like I spent all day in the kitchen but actually gave me time to shower and change.
Ingredients
- French baguette: A day-old loaf actually works better because it slices cleanly and toasts up crispier without burning.
- Olive oil: Don't skip brushing both sides—it's what gives you that golden, buttery crunch that holds up under the toppings.
- Brie cheese: Look for a wheel that's soft but not runny at room temperature, and don't bother removing the rind—it's edible and adds a nice earthiness.
- Cranberry sauce: Homemade is lovely, but a good quality jarred version saves time and tastes just as festive.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme: A little goes a long way—these herbs smell like the holidays and cut through the richness beautifully.
- Toasted pecans or walnuts: They add a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness that plays well with the cranberries.
- Microgreens or arugula: A small handful on top makes the whole thing look like you know what you're doing.
Instructions
- Toast the bread:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides with olive oil—this is what turns them golden and keeps them from getting soggy. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until they're crisp and lightly browned.
- Melt the Brie:
- Lay a slice of Brie on each toasted round and return the tray to the oven for just 2 to 3 minutes. You want the cheese soft and warm, not a puddle.
- Add the cranberry sauce:
- Spoon a teaspoon or two of cranberry sauce over each piece of Brie while it's still warm. The contrast of cool, tart sauce against melty cheese is everything.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs, scatter on some toasted nuts, and tuck a few greens on top if you're feeling fancy. Serve them while they're still a little warm, or let them come to room temperature—they're good either way.
Save Last Christmas Eve, my nephew—who claims he doesn't like cheese—ate six of these before I could stop him. He still won't admit he was wrong, but he did ask if I was making them again this year.
Make It Your Own
Try swapping the Brie for creamy camembert or tangy goat cheese if you want a different flavor. I've also used fig jam instead of cranberry sauce when I'm feeling like something a little earthier, and it's just as good. If you want a little heat, a drizzle of hot honey over the top right before serving will make people very happy.
Storing and Reheating
You can toast the baguette slices up to a day ahead and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble and bake the crostini right before serving for the best texture. Leftovers can be warmed gently in a 300°F oven for a few minutes, though they're never quite as crisp the second time around.
Serving Suggestions
These crostini are perfect alongside a cheese board or as part of a larger appetizer spread. They pair beautifully with sparkling wine, a dry rosé, or even a light pinot noir if you're feeling festive.
- Set them out on a wooden board with extra cranberry sauce on the side for anyone who wants more.
- Serve them with a simple green salad for a light lunch that feels special.
- Double the batch if you're feeding a crowd—they disappear faster than you'd think.
Save This is the kind of recipe that makes you look like you have it all together, even when you absolutely don't. Make them once, and they'll be on your holiday menu forever.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cheese is used for this dish?
Soft, creamy Brie cheese is the primary topping, delivering a rich, delicate flavor that complements the tartness of cranberry sauce.
- → Can I substitute the baguette?
Yes, any crusty bread sliced thinly will work as a base, but a French baguette provides the ideal crispness and size.
- → How long should the crostini be toasted?
Toast the bread slices in a 400°F oven for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp, flipping halfway through.
- → Are there optional ingredients to enhance flavor?
Fresh chopped rosemary or thyme can be sprinkled atop, along with toasted pecans or walnuts and microgreens for texture and aroma.
- → Is it better served warm or cold?
The crostini can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, allowing the Brie to soften slightly without fully melting.