These brie and prosciutto crostini are a tasty treat! Crispy bread topped with creamy brie cheese and salty prosciutto makes for a delicious bite.
They’re perfect for sharing, or you might want to keep them all to yourself! I love serving these at parties; they’re always a hit, and so easy to put together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette makes for a crispy base for the crostini. If you need to substitute, consider using ciabatta or even gluten-free bread for a different texture.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds creaminess and rich flavor. You can swap it with camembert for a slightly stronger taste or use a mild cream cheese if you want a lighter option.
Prosciutto: This salty cured ham is a key ingredient for flavor. If you prefer a less salty option, try using turkey or chicken slices, or for a vegetarian twist, roasted red peppers work well.
Arugula: Fresh arugula provides a nice peppery note. You can replace it with spinach or mixed greens, but I suggest sticking with something that has a bit of bite.
Balsamic Glaze: This adds sweetness and acidity. You can use balsamic vinegar if you don’t have glaze, just drizzle it lightly as it can be more potent.
How Do You Get Perfectly Toasted Crostini?
Toasting baguette slices just right is crucial for a great crostini. You want them crispy enough to hold the toppings but not so hard they’re hard to bite into. Here are my tips:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Brush both sides of the sliced baguette lightly with olive oil; this promotes a golden crust.
- Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer to allow them to toast evenly.
- Keep an eye on them while toasting; typically, 8-10 minutes is perfect, but ovens can vary.
Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- Olive oil, for brushing the bread
For the Topping:
- 8 oz brie cheese, softened
- 6-8 slices prosciutto
- 1 cup fresh arugula leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- Optional: fresh ground black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your crostini will toast evenly and get that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Baguette:
Slice the baguette into rounds that are about 1/2-inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Next, brush a light coating of olive oil on both sides of the bread slices. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.
3. Toast the Bread:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and toast the bread slices for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want them to be golden and crisp, but not burnt. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Add the Brie:
Spread a generous layer of softened brie cheese on top of each toasted baguette slice. The creaminess of the brie is what makes these crostini so tasty!
5. Layer the Prosciutto:
Take your slices of prosciutto and fold them up nicely. Place them on top of the brie layer on each crostini. The salty flavor of prosciutto complements the creamy brie beautifully.
6. Add the Arugula:
Top each crostini with a couple of fresh arugula leaves. Their peppery taste adds a wonderful freshness to the dish.
7. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
Finally, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over each crostini. This adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, tying all the flavors together.
8. Season and Serve:
Optionally, you can sprinkle some fresh ground black pepper on top for an extra burst of flavor. Serve these crostini immediately and enjoy every delicious bite!
These brie and prosciutto crostini are a simple yet elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. The combination of flavors and textures makes them irresistible!
Can I Use a Different Cheese Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different cheese, camembert is a great substitute as it has a similar creamy texture. Cream cheese is a lighter option, but keep in mind it won’t provide the same rich flavor.
How Do I Toast the Baguette in Advance?
You can toast the baguette slices ahead of time. Just cool them completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. When ready to use, you can refresh them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Can I Make These Crostini Without Prosciutto?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, you can omit the prosciutto entirely or replace it with roasted red peppers, olives, or even a slice of fresh tomato for a delicious alternative.
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
Leftover crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have any extras, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore some of the crispness before serving again.
