These brie and prosciutto crostini are a fun and tasty snack! With crispy bread topped with creamy brie and salty prosciutto, they’re perfect for gatherings or just a treat for yourself.
Honestly, who can resist melted cheese and savory meat on crunchy bread? I love serving them with a drizzle of honey for that extra yum factor. So easy and delightful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A crispy baguette is perfect for these crostini. If you can’t find one, you could use ciabatta or sourdough, which also have a nice crunch and flavor.
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and rich, but if you’re looking for substitutes, try camembert or even goat cheese for a different twist. Just know that goat cheese is tangier!
Prosciutto: The salty kick of prosciutto really makes these crostini shine. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey or chicken prosciutto works well too. You can also go for smoked salmon for a seafood variation!
Fresh Arugula: Arugula adds a peppery bite. If you want a milder taste, use baby spinach or mixed greens instead. They won’t be as spicy but will still look great!
Balsamic Glaze: If you’re low on balsamic glaze, you can mix balsamic vinegar with a little honey to create a similar sweet-tangy flavor. Just simmer it for a few minutes to thicken.
How Do I Get the Bread Perfectly Toasted?
Toasting the bread just right is key for a great texture. Aim for golden and crisp without burning! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven well to ensure even heat distribution.
- Brush each slice of bread lightly with olive oil to enhance the flavor and help it crisp up.
- Keep an eye on them while toasting — 8-10 minutes is usually enough, but check after 5 minutes since ovens vary.
- Let the bread cool slightly after toasting. This helps maintain its crunch when you add the toppings.
These tips will help ensure your crostini have the perfect crunch to hold all those yummy toppings! Enjoy making these delicious bites!
Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced 1/2-inch thick
- 6 oz brie cheese, sliced or cut into small pieces
- 6 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: honey for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing and toasting the bread and another 5-10 minutes assembling the crostini. It’s quick and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your bread will toast evenly and get that perfect crunch!
2. Toast the Bread:
Arrange the slices of baguette on a baking sheet. Use a brush or your fingers to lightly coat each side with olive oil. This not only helps achieve a nice golden color, but it adds flavor too. Pop the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s golden and crisp. Once done, take it out and let it cool a bit.
3. Add Brie:
Once the bread is slightly cooled, place pieces of brie cheese on each slice. If you want extra melty brie, you can return the crostini to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, but it’s great either way!
4. Layer with Prosciutto:
Next, take each slice of prosciutto and fold it loosely. Place one on top of the brie on each crostini. The saltiness of the prosciutto pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese.
5. Drizzle and Garnish:
Now it’s time to dress them up! Drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over each crostini for a sweet and tangy touch. Add a few fresh arugula leaves on top for that peppery flavor.
6. Final Touches:
If you like a hint of sweetness, drizzle a little honey over the crostini. Finish off with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for some added flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These delightful crostini are best served immediately. Enjoy them as a delicious appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress!
Each bite is a burst of flavor, combining creamy, savory, and peppery elements with a delightful crunch. Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself) — enjoy every morsel!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie is deliciously creamy, you can substitute it with camembert for a similar texture or even goat cheese for a tangier flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste profile will change slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you happen to have leftovers, store the crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the bread might lose its crispness. To revive it, pop the crostini back in the oven for a few minutes before serving!
Can I Make These Crostini Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the toasted baguette slices in advance! Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble with the toppings shortly before serving to keep everything fresh and crispy.
How Can I Customize the Toppings?
Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like figs or fig jam, nuts, or even different greens like spinach. Try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for some heat or swapping in different cured meats to change things up!
