These brie and prosciutto crostini are easy-to-make bites, perfect for any gathering! With creamy brie and salty prosciutto on crunchy bread, every bite is a delight!
They look fancy but are super simple to prepare. I love whipping these up in no time, and they always impress. Plus, who can resist that melty cheese? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives the best crunch. If it’s not available, consider using ciabatta or any crusty bread like sourdough. You can even use gluten-free bread if needed!
Brie cheese: This cheese is soft and creamy. If you can’t find brie, camembert makes a great substitute with a similar flavor and texture. Cream cheese can also work if you prefer something milder.
Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto is nice and salty. If you want a different twist, try using smoked salmon or turkey slices for a lighter option, especially if you’re avoiding pork.
Balsamic glaze: You can buy balsamic glaze or make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it’s reduced. Honey or a sprinkle of brown sugar can add a sweet touch if you don’t have glaze.
How do you perfectly toast the baguette slices?
Toasting the baguette is essential for that perfect crunch! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the baguette diagonally for wider pieces that hold toppings well.
- Brush the slices lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up without getting soggy.
- Arrange them on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown.
Keep an eye on them since ovens vary—burnt bread isn’t tasty! Plus, toasting right before topping keeps the bread warm and the cheese melty.
Brie And Prosciutto Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced diagonally into 12 pieces
- 8 oz brie cheese, softened and sliced
- 6 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup goat cheese or ricotta cheese, crumbled (optional topping)
- A handful of fresh arugula leaves
- Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes to toast the bread and assemble the crostini. Enjoying them warm is the best part, so they are perfect to serve right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it nice and hot for toasting your baguette slices.
2. Prepare the Baguette Slices:
Lay the sliced baguette pieces on a baking sheet. Use a brush or a spoon to lightly brush each slice with olive oil. This helps them get crispy and flavorful in the oven.
3. Toast the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven. Let the bread bake for about 8-10 minutes, checking occasionally, until they are golden and crisp. Be careful not to burn them!
4. Add the Brie:
Once the bread is toasted and out of the oven, immediately place a slice of brie cheese on each piece. The heat from the bread will help the brie soften and become creamy.
5. Layer with Prosciutto:
Next, take a slice of prosciutto and gently fold or lay it over the brie on each crostini. The saltiness of the prosciutto pairs wonderfully with the rich brie.
6. Top with Arugula:
Add a few fresh arugula leaves on top of each crostini to give a nice pop of color and a peppery crunch.
7. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
For the finishing touch, drizzle balsamic glaze over the crostini. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
8. Season to Taste:
If you like, sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on each piece for an extra kick of flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
These crostini are best served immediately while the brie is warm and melty! Gather around the table, share, and enjoy this delicious bite!
This recipe creates beautiful and tasty crostini filled with creamy brie, the savory goodness of prosciutto, and bright arugula—all balanced with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Enjoy your creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While a baguette is ideal for its crunch, you can also use ciabatta, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread. Just slice it thickly to ensure it holds the toppings well.
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the toasted bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day and refrigerate the toppings. Assemble them fresh when ready to eat!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the toasted baguette slices in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just add the toppings right before serving to keep everything fresh and crispy.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the prosciutto and add additional toppings like roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or a spread of pesto for flavor. You could also pile on more arugula and additional cheese for a hearty vegetarian bite!
