These cranberry brie toasts are a perfect blend of sweet and creamy! The crispy bread topped with gooey brie and tart cranberry sauce is simply yummy.
They’re great for gatherings or a fancy snack at home. I love popping these in the oven and watching them disappear—so good, you’ll want to keep them all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or Rustic Bread: Using a baguette gives you a nice, crunchy texture. If unavailable, you can use sourdough, ciabatta, or even crackers for a different twist. I sometimes prefer whole grain for extra flavor!
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and smooth, perfect for melting. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a vegan brie or any soft plant-based cheese. Cream cheese can also work, though the flavor will differ.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are ideal for a tangy taste, but frozen ones are a good substitute. Just cook them a bit longer to ensure they’re nice and soft. If you want a sweeter topping, consider using cherries or blueberries instead.
Orange Juice & Zest: Orange adds brightness! If you’re out, lemon juice can work in a pinch, though it will give a different flavor. For zest, you can skip it or use another citrus like lemon or lime if you prefer.
How Do I Get the Bread Perfectly Toasted?
Toasting the bread properly is key to having a crispy base. Here’s how you can ensure great results:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that the heat is even and consistent.
- Brush both sides of the bread lightly with olive oil or melted butter for a golden finish.
- Keep an eye on the bread while toasting. Aim for about 8-10 minutes, checking halfway for even browning.
Enjoy this step! The aroma of the bread and cheese baking together is absolutely delightful!
Cranberry Brie Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette or rustic bread, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 8 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish
- Olive oil or melted butter for brushing bread
- Salt, a pinch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping and cooking the cranberry topping, and the rest is for toasting your bread and assembling the toasts. Super quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare the Cranberries:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest if you’re using it. Cook while stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, which should take about 10-12 minutes. If you like, add the chopped rosemary or thyme right at the end, then set it aside to cool a bit.
2. Toast the Bread:
Now, grab those beautiful slices of bread and brush each side lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Place them on a baking sheet, then pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Toast the bread for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy. You want that lovely crunch!
3. Add the Brie:
Once the bread is toasted, take it out of the oven (careful, it’s hot!). Quickly place a slice of brie cheese on each warm toast. Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 3-5 minutes, so the brie softens beautifully.
4. Finish and Serve:
When the brie is all melty, remove the baking sheet from the oven again. Spoon the warm cranberry topping over each slice of brie, making sure to drizzle any extra sauce on top. For a lovely finish, garnish with a small sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. Now they are ready to enjoy warm!
Dig in and enjoy these delicious cranberry brie toasts, which are sure to impress anyone who’s lucky enough to share! 🎉
Can I Use Different Breads for This Toast?
Absolutely! While a baguette or rustic bread is perfect, you can also use sourdough, ciabatta, or even whole grain bread for added flavor. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings!
What Can I Substitute for Cranberries?
If you’re not a fan of cranberries, you can try using fresh or frozen cherries, blueberries, or even a mixed berry compote. Just cook them down similarly until they become a thick sauce!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
These toasts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make the Cranberry Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the cranberry sauce in advance! It can be made up to 3 days ahead, just store it in the fridge and reheat it slightly before spooning it over the brie toast.