Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini

Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini

There’s something magically inviting about the combination of sweet, savory, and tart flavors dancing together on a perfectly toasted crostini. Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini is a delightful appetizer that captures these contrasts beautifully, making it the perfect choice for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or simply a sophisticated snack at home. This bite-sized treat combines crisp baguette slices with creamy brie, juicy pears, and tangy cranberry sauce to create a harmonious flavor profile that feels both elegant and comforting.

Originating from the classic French crostini tradition, where toasted bread serves as a canvas for vibrant toppings, this particular recipe offers a seasonal twist with the use of pear and cranberry—ingredients that are synonymous with autumn and winter festivities. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and balance, delivering a gourmet feel with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this crostini recipe promises to impress your guests and bring warmth to any occasion.

Ingredients

• For the Crostini:
  • 1 French baguette or Italian bread loaf, sliced into 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick slices
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing
• For the Topping:
  • 8 oz (225 g) Brie cheese, sliced or spreadable
  • 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced (Bosc or Bartlett work well)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
  • Ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides to ensure crispiness when toasted.
4. Toast the bread in the oven for about 8-10 minutes or until golden and crisp, flipping halfway through to ensure even toasting.
5. Remove the toasted crostini from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
6. Spread a generous layer of Brie cheese on each crostini while they are still slightly warm, allowing the cheese to begin softening.
7. Top the Brie with thinly sliced pears arranged neatly to cover the surface.
8. Add a small spoonful of cranberry sauce over the pears, distributing evenly.
9. Drizzle a little honey on top for added sweetness and a beautiful glaze.
10. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of ground black pepper for an aromatic, savory touch.
11. Serve the crostini immediately or within a short time to enjoy the contrast between warm crostini and cool toppings.
12. For best results, use ripe but firm pears to avoid soggy crostini and to maintain a pleasant texture contrast.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: Makes about 24 crostini, serving 8-12 as an appetizer
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old bread for crostini; it toasts better and holds toppings without getting soggy.
• Brie with a creamy rind works best for easy spreading and melting.
• Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweet dimension.
• For a festive flair, add chopped walnuts or pecans on top.
• Store leftover crostini toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 150-180 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1.5g

Conclusion

This Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your appetizer game with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Its balance of creamy, fruity, and tangy elements will surely wow your guests or delight your family during any festive occasion or casual get-together.

Serve these crostini alongside a crisp white wine or a light sparkling cocktail for an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to share your own twists or questions in the comments below—happy cooking and even happier eating!