Imagine a bite-sized culinary masterpiece that will make your guests swoon and your taste buds dance! These elegant Crostini with Cranberry Fig Jam and Brie are about to transform your appetizer game from ordinary to extraordinary. With a perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and sweet flavors, this Italian-inspired dish is not just a snack—it's a gourmet experience that looks like it came straight from a high-end restaurant, but can be prepared in just 20 minutes right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 8 oz Brie cheese
- 1/2 cup cranberry fig jam
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the baguette diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces, creating uniform oval-shaped slices. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly brush each baguette slice with olive oil on both sides to ensure a golden, crispy texture when toasted.
- Bake the baguette slices in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are lightly golden and crisp around the edges.
- Remove the crostini from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes to prevent burning when adding cheese.
- Cut the Brie cheese into thin, even slices approximately 1/4 inch thick, ensuring each crostini will have a smooth cheese coverage.
- Place a slice of Brie on each toasted baguette piece, covering most of the surface.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the Brie begins to soften and slightly melt.
- Remove from the oven and top each crostini with a generous teaspoon of cranberry fig jam, spreading it gently over the melted Brie.
- Garnish each crostini with fresh thyme leaves for added aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is warm and the crostini are crisp. Best enjoyed as an appetizer or light snack.
Tips
- Choose a high-quality baguette with a firm crust for the best texture
- Slice the baguette diagonally for more surface area and an elegant presentation
- Don't skip brushing with olive oil—it's the secret to achieving that golden, crispy edge
- Watch the Brie carefully when melting to prevent over-browning
- Use fresh thyme leaves for garnish to add a professional touch and subtle herbaceous flavor
- Serve immediately after preparing to maintain the perfect temperature and crispness
- For a variation, try different artisanal jams or experiment with other soft cheeses like camembert
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
