These roasted grape and brie crostini are a tasty treat! Crispy bread topped with warm brie and sweet roasted grapes makes them super yummy and perfect for sharing.
Honestly, who can resist gooey cheese and sweet fruit on crunchy bread? I love serving these at parties because they disappear fast! Just remember to save some for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or French Bread: A classic choice that gives a lovely crunch. If you can’t find a baguette, ciabatta or even pumpernickel works great. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings!
Brie Cheese: Brie is amazing for its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use a soft goat cheese or cream cheese. They may change the flavor a bit, but still delicious!
Red Seedless Grapes: These grapes add natural sweetness. If grapes aren’t available, try pears or figs. Just make sure they’re fresh to get that sweet, juicy flavor!
Fresh Thyme: Fresh herbs give a pop of flavor. If fresh thyme isn’t on hand, you can use dried thyme, but reduce the amount since it’s more potent. Italian seasoning is another good substitute!
How Do You Roast the Perfect Grapes?
Roasting grapes transforms them into a sweet treat. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) so the grapes cook evenly.
- Toss grapes with olive oil, honey, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper until they’re well-coated.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. This helps them roast nicely without steaming.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes until soft and caramelized. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
This step enhances their sweetness and makes them the perfect topping for your crostini. Plus, the smell while they roast is absolutely inviting! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🌟
How to Make Roasted Grape And Brie Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette or French bread, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
For the Roasted Grapes:
- 2 cups red seedless grapes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have these delicious crostini ready to enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roasting the Grapes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the halved grapes with olive oil, honey, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until they are well coated. Spread the grapes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 15-20 minutes, until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Once ready, take them out and set aside.
2. Toasting the Bread:
While the grapes are roasting, arrange the bread slices on another baking sheet. Place them in the oven and toast for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
3. Assembling the Crostini:
Once the bread is toasted, remove it from the oven. Quickly place a slice of Brie cheese on each toast while it’s still warm, allowing the cheese to slightly melt. Then, top each Brie-covered crostini with a spoonful of the warm roasted grapes.
4. Adding the Finishing Touch:
If you want to enhance the flavor and add some crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top. They add a nice touch to the overall dish!
5. Serving:
These crostini are perfect to serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them as an appetizer or snack, and delight in the perfect blend of the crispy bread, creamy Brie, and sweet roasted grapes!
Invite your friends and family to enjoy this delicious and delightful treat—sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is a classic choice for its creamy texture, you can also try Camembert or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly!
How Do I Keep Crostini Crispy Until Serving?
To keep crostini crispy, let them cool completely after toasting, then store them in an airtight container. If made in advance, you can re-crisp them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes before serving!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can roast the grapes and prepare the crostini in advance. Store the roasted grapes in the fridge for up to 3 days and assemble the crostini just before serving for the best texture.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add caramelized onions, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil for extra flavor. Experiment to find your perfect combination!