Save I was arranging a cheese board last December when my sister-in-law walked in with a jar of homemade cranberry sauce and said, "Let's do something different this year." We grabbed a baguette, some Brie from the fridge, and ten minutes later had a platter that disappeared faster than anything else on the table. The sweet-tart cranberry against warm, creamy cheese on crisp toast felt festive without any fuss. Now I make these every holiday season, and guests always ask for the recipe before they leave.
The first time I served these at a party, I watched a quiet coworker take three in a row and then whisper to her friend. Later she told me she'd been nervous about coming but the food made her feel welcome. I realized then that simple, generous appetizers do more than fill plates. They set the tone for the whole evening.
Ingredients
- French baguette: Choose one with a sturdy crust so the slices hold up under toppings without getting soggy, and slice them about half an inch thick for the right balance of crunch and bite.
- Olive oil: Brushing both sides lightly ensures even browning and a golden finish that tastes rich but not greasy.
- Brie cheese: Look for a wheel that feels soft when you press the rind gently, it should be ripe enough to soften in the oven without melting into a puddle.
- Cranberry sauce: Homemade brings brightness and control over sweetness, but a good jarred version works beautifully when time is tight.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme: Just a small sprinkle adds an herbal note that cuts through the richness and makes the whole thing smell like a holiday.
- Toasted pecans or walnuts: A little crunch on top turns each crostini into a complete bite with texture in every layer.
- Microgreens or arugula: A few delicate leaves add color and a peppery freshness that balances the sweet and creamy elements.
Instructions
- Toast the Baguette:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet, brushing both sides with olive oil. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden and crisp with a faint nutty aroma.
- Add the Brie:
- Place a thin slice of Brie on each toasted round and return the tray to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes. You want the cheese soft and warm, not melted into the bread.
- Top with Cranberry Sauce:
- Spoon 1 to 2 teaspoons of cranberry sauce onto each crostini, letting it pool slightly in the center. The tartness will soak into the cheese just enough to create a perfect contrast.
- Finish and Garnish:
- Sprinkle chopped rosemary or thyme over the top if you like, then add a few toasted pecans and a small handful of microgreens. Serve them warm or at room temperature, both ways taste wonderful.
Save One year I ran out of cranberry sauce halfway through assembling these and substituted fig jam on a few. My uncle grabbed one, paused, and said it reminded him of a bistro he loved in Paris. Sometimes the best moments come from small improvisations that turn into new traditions.
Making Your Own Cranberry Sauce
If you have ten minutes, simmering fresh cranberries with a little sugar and orange juice gives you a sauce that tastes brighter and less sweet than most jarred versions. I like to add a strip of orange zest while it cooks, then fish it out before spooning the sauce onto the crostini. The citrus note lifts everything without overpowering the cheese.
Cheese Swaps That Work
Camembert behaves almost exactly like Brie and brings a slightly earthier flavor that some people prefer. Goat cheese is tangier and holds its shape better in the oven, so if you like a sharper contrast with the cranberry sweetness, try it. I have also used a soft triple-cream cheese when I wanted something extra indulgent, and no one complained.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
These crostini pair beautifully with sparkling wine, dry rosé, or even a light red like Pinot Noir. I usually arrange them on a wooden board with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary tucked around the edges for a simple, festive look. If you are serving a crowd, double the batch because they go faster than you expect.
- Arrange them on the platter just before guests arrive so they stay crisp and warm.
- If you have leftovers, store the toasts separately and reheat them briefly before reassembling.
- Try drizzling a tiny bit of honey over the top for an extra layer of sweetness that surprises people.
Save Every time I make these, someone asks if they can take the recipe home, and I always say yes because good food is meant to be shared. I hope they become part of your holiday table too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for crostini?
A thinly sliced French baguette creates the perfect crisp base that holds toppings without becoming soggy.
- → Can I substitute Brie with other cheeses?
Yes, soft cheeses like camembert or mild goat cheese work well as alternatives to Brie.
- → How can I make homemade cranberry sauce?
Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar and orange juice until thickened to create a fresh, tangy sauce.
- → What herbs complement the toppings?
Fresh rosemary or thyme adds fragrant notes that balance the creaminess and tartness of the toppings.
- → Are there any allergy considerations for this dish?
It contains dairy and gluten; nuts are optional but should be checked if guests have allergies.
- → Should crostini be served warm or at room temperature?
They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, allowing the Brie to soften without fully melting.