As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of caramelizing cranberries danced through the air, evoking the warmth of cherished gatherings with friends and family. Perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini recipe is my go-to for turning everyday moments into something special.
With the perfect balance of tart cranberries, creamy brie, and crunchy pecans, these delightful bites bring together flavors that are not only crowd-pleasers but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a last-minute appetizer for an impromptu gathering or an elegant addition to your holiday spread, each crostini showcases the delightful harmony of sweet and savory.
Join me as we transform simple ingredients into a memorable experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why will you love this Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini?
Elevated flavor profile: The combination of brie and sweet cranberries creates a unique taste sensation that will impress your guests.
Easy to assemble: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a gourmet appetizer ready in no time!
Versatile for any occasion: Perfect for holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, or even a cozy night in.
Visually stunning: The vibrant colors and elegant presentation make these crostini a feast for the eyes.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a bite-sized treat, and these crostini are sure to disappear quickly!
Time-saving: With only 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy more time with loved ones.
Ingredients for Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini
Ready to create a delightful masterpiece?
For the Crostini Base
- Baguette – cut into 1-inch thick slices for the perfect crunch base.
- Brie – creamy and decadent, it’s the star of the show and pairs beautifully with cranberries.
For the Cranberry Mixture
- Fresh cranberries – they add a tartness that balances the rich brie wonderfully.
- Honey – a natural sweetener that enhances the cranberries’ flavor and adds depth.
- Balsamic vinegar – adds a tangy richness, helping to bring out the cranberries’ sweetness.
- Salt – a pinch to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
- Pepper – for a gentle kick, contrasting the sweet ingredients.
- Fresh thyme – this herb adds an aromatic earthiness that elevates the overall taste.
For the Toppings
- Chopped toasted pecans – they provide a delightful crunch and a nuttiness that complements the dish.
- Balsamic reduction – drizzling this over the top not only adds elegance but a burst of flavor as well.
How to Make Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. This temperature is perfect for roasting the cranberries and toasting the bread for those delightful bites.
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Mix the ingredients for the cranberry mixture. In a bowl, combine the fresh cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of thyme. Stir well, ensuring all the cranberries are coated.
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Bake the cranberry mixture. Transfer it to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, and place it in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cranberries start to pop and soften.
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Arrange the baguette slices on another baking sheet. Top each slice with a generous piece of creamy brie. This step is all about achieving that melty goodness!
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Toast the baguette and brie. Place the baking sheet in the oven and let it toast for about 10 minutes, or until the brie is melted and bubbly.
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Assemble the crostini. Once both the cranberries and baguette are ready, spoon a portion of the cranberry mixture on top of each slice of bread.
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Garnish your crostini. Drizzle some balsamic reduction over each one, then sprinkle with the chopped toasted pecans and garnish with a few small leaves of fresh thyme. This adds flavor and a touch of elegance.
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Serve warm. These bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, capturing all those beautiful flavors.
Optional: Garnish with extra thyme for a vibrant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your entertaining stress-free! You can prepare the cranberry mixture up to 3 days in advance. Simply combine the cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and thyme as instructed, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the baguette and brie, slice the bread and store it separately to maintain its crunch before toasting; this can be done up to 24 hours ahead. When you’re ready to serve, just toast the baguette with brie, assemble with the cranberry topping, and drizzle with balsamic reduction for a delightful, effortless appetizer that tastes just as fresh and delicious!
Tips for the Best Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cranberries instead of frozen ones for a vibrant flavor and better texture in your crostini.
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Perfect Bake: Monitor the roasting time of the cranberries. If overcooked, they’ll become too mushy—aim for that delightful pop!
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Cheese Handling: Let the brie sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. This allows it to melt beautifully and evenly on the bread.
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Baguette Choice: Opt for a crusty baguette for the base—avoid pre-sliced breads which may become soggy when topped.
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Garnish Wisely: Finish with the balsamic reduction only when ready to serve to keep the crostini from getting soggy and to maintain its visual appeal.
How to Store and Freeze Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, keep assembled crostini at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to maintain texture.
Fridge: Store leftover crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but note that the texture may soften.
Freezer: For freezing, it’s best to freeze the cranberry mixture separately. It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat the baked baguette and brie in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and melty, then top with the cranberry mixture.
Variations & Substitutions for Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini
Feel free to make this dish your own—your creativity in the kitchen will shine through!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the brie with vegan cream cheese for a luscious, plant-based option that retains the crostini’s creaminess.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free baguette slices to cater to dietary needs while still enjoying the same delightful taste.
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy yet allergy-friendly garnish. You can still achieve that satisfying crunch without nuts!
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cranberry mixture for an unexpected heat that plays beautifully with the sweetness.
- Different Fruit: Swap cranberries with figs or a blend of mixed berries for a unique twist that showcases a new flavor combination; the sweetness redefines this elegant appetizer.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different aromatic profile that pairs wonderfully with the cheese and fruit.
- Honey Substitute: Use maple syrup in place of honey for a different sweetness curve—the subtle flavor transformation is delightful and adds a new depth.
- Extra Crunch: Top each crostini with crispy bacon bits for a savory twist that adds an irresistible crunch and smoky flavor. Each bite will offer a surprising element that everyone will love!
What to Serve with Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini?
Creating a delightful spread is effortless with the right pairings alongside these stunning crostinis, making your gatherings memorable.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh, lightly dressed salad adds a crisp contrast, balancing the richness of the crostini beautifully. Toss in some walnuts for added crunch!
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots enhances the tart cranberries while adding a lovely pop of color and texture to your table.
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Warm Apple Cider: The comforting warmth of spiced apple cider elevates the cozy ambiance, making it a perfect drink to sip while relishing the crostini.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken skewers infused with herbs add a satisfying protein element, complementing the creamy brie and tangy cranberries.
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Fruit and Cheese Platter: Assemble a colorful platter with an assortment of seasonal fruits and cheeses. This creates a delightful grazing experience that pairs excellently with your crostinis.
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Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, why not indulge in a warm chocolate fondue? The sweetness provides a luxurious contrast to the savory-sweet crostini, creating a perfect ending to the meal.
Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, fresh cranberries are the way to go! Look for firm, vibrant berries without any dark spots or blemishes. They’ll provide the best tart flavor and hold up well during cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen cranberries, but keep in mind that they may release more moisture and change the texture a bit.
How do I store leftover crostini?
To maintain the best flavor and texture, store the assembled crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the bread may lose its crispness. I often recommend storing the cranberry mixture separately, allowing you to reassemble fresh crostini when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I freeze the cranberry mixture?
Yes! Freezing the cranberry mixture is an excellent way to make a batch ahead of time. Just place it in an airtight container and it will keep for up to 1 month. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently before spooning it over toasted baguette slices.
What should I do if my cranberries don’t pop while cooking?
If your cranberries don’t pop after 20 minutes, they may need a bit longer; just give them a gentle stir and return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as they can turn mushy. You want them tender but still holding their shape!
Are these crostini suitable for people with nut allergies?
If you or your guests have nut allergies, simply omit the chopped toasted pecans. You can substitute with pumpkin seeds for a similar crunchy texture, or enjoy them without any nuts for a deliciously creamy and savory bite!
How long can I keep the assembled crostini out at room temperature?
I recommend keeping assembled crostini at room temperature for no more than 30 minutes. This helps maintain the perfect texture, but for the best flavor, serve them warm right out of the oven!
Pear Brie Cranberry Crostini: A Festive Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix the ingredients for the cranberry mixture in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Arrange the baguette slices on another baking sheet and top with brie.
- Toast the baguette and brie in the oven for about 10 minutes.
- Assemble the crostini by spooning the cranberry mixture on top.
- Drizzle balsamic reduction and sprinkle with pecans and thyme.
- Serve warm to enjoy the full flavors.