These tasty crostini bring together sweet roasted grapes and creamy brie on crunchy toast. It’s a perfect appetizer that will impress your guests (or yourself, no judgment here!).
Every bite is a delightful mix of warm, cheesy goodness and burst of fruity flavor. I love serving them at parties, and they disappear fast—so I always make a few extra! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives the best texture. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free baguette or use gluten-free crackers for crunch.
Red Seedless Grapes: These add sweetness when roasted. You can swap them for green grapes or even roasted figs if you prefer something different.
Brie Cheese: Brie is rich and creamy, but camembert works well too. If you need a dairy-free option, nut-based cheese can be a good substitute.
Walnuts or Pecans: They add a nice crunch. You can skip them or use slivered almonds for extra texture instead. Toasting them beforehand enhances the flavor!
How Do I Get the Grapes Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting the grapes is the key to bursting flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking.
- Spread the halved grapes on a baking sheet in one layer. Overcrowding them can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes. Check them around the 10-minute mark and give them a gentle shake. They are done when they’re soft and caramelized.
- Let them cool slightly before adding to your crostini. This boosts their sweetness even more!
Roasted Grape And Brie Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 12 oz red seedless grapes, washed and halved
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes baking. It’s quick, easy, and the perfect appetizer for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial to ensure your grapes roast beautifully and your bread gets nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Grapes:
On a large baking sheet, toss the halved grapes with the olive oil, fresh thyme leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix them well so the grapes are evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Roast the Grapes:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the grapes for about 15-20 minutes. They should be soft and starting to caramelize. Enjoy the lovely smell filling your kitchen!
4. Toast the Baguette:
While the grapes are roasting, place your baguette slices on a separate baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
5. Add Brie to the Toasted Bread:
Once the baguette slices are toasted, take them out of the oven. Immediately place a slice of Brie cheese on each piece of bread. The heat from the bread will slightly soften the cheese, making it wonderfully creamy!
6. Top with Roasted Grapes:
After the grapes are done roasting, take them out of the oven and spoon a generous amount on top of the Brie slices. The warm, sweet grapes are the star of this dish!
7. Drizzle with Honey:
To add a touch of sweetness, drizzle honey over each crostini. This complements the savory Brie and roasted grapes perfectly.
8. Add Crunch and Garnish:
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top. Finish with a few extra thyme leaves for garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
These crostini are best served warm. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy the sweet, creamy, and crunchy flavors of this delicious appetizer!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While a baguette is great for crunch, you can use any bread you like, such as ciabatta or sourdough. Just make sure to slice it to a similar thickness for even toasting.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to get the bread crispy again, though the Brie won’t be as melty.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the Brie for a vegan cheese option and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep it plant-based. The grapes and toasted bread will still deliver a delightful flavor!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
You can get creative with toppings! Consider adding a sprinkle of balsamic glaze, a handful of arugula, or even thinly sliced prosciutto for a savory twist. Just remember to balance flavors for the best experience!