Brie and prosciutto crostini are little pieces of toast topped with creamy brie cheese and savory prosciutto. They make perfect snacks or appetizers for your gatherings!
These tasty bites are so easy to make, plus they look fancy, which is always a win. I love serving them at parties, and honestly, they never last long on the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: The crisp texture of a baguette makes it ideal for crostini. If you’re in a pinch, French bread or ciabatta also works well. Just choose a good quality loaf for the best results.
Brie Cheese: Brie adds a creamy texture. If you can’t find Brie, camembert is a great substitute. For a lighter option, goat cheese or mascarpone can also be used, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Prosciutto: The salty flavor of prosciutto is key. If you’re looking for a substitute, look for thinly sliced ham or turkey. It won’t have the same flavor, but it will still be tasty!
Arugula: This adds a peppery note to the crostini. If you don’t have arugula, spinach or mixed greens can be used instead, offering a different yet enjoyable flavor.
Balsamic Glaze: The sweet tang of balsamic glaze enhances the crostini. If you’re out of glaze, a simple drizzle of balsamic vinegar will also work, though use it sparingly to avoid too much acidity.
How Do You Toast Bread Perfectly for Crostini?
Toasting your bread just right is crucial for great crostini. You want them crispy on the outside yet soft enough to hold toppings without collapsing. Here’s how!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange your baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Toast for 8-10 minutes, flipping midway until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
- Let them cool slightly before adding toppings so the cheese can melt a little when placed on warm bread.
These steps will ensure you get that perfect crunch while still allowing your toppings to shine!
Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced or cut into small pieces
- 6 oz thinly sliced prosciutto
- 2 cups fresh arugula leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Estimate
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes for toasting the bread. In total, you will need about 25 minutes before your crostini are ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help toast the bread perfectly without burning it.
2. Prepare the Baguette
Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides to ensure they get crispy and golden.
3. Toast the Bread
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Toast the baguette slices for about 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway through to achieve even toasting. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
4. Cool the Toasted Bread
Once the baguette slices are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
5. Add the Brie Cheese
While the bread is still warm, place a slice or small piece of Brie cheese on each toasted slice. The warmth from the bread will help soften the cheese, enhancing its creamy texture.
6. Layer the Prosciutto
Now, take a slice of prosciutto and fold it neatly. Place the folded prosciutto on top of the Brie on each crostini. This adds a savory kick to the appetizers!
7. Garnish with Arugula
Add a few fresh arugula leaves on top of each crostini for a burst of color and a peppery taste that complements the rich flavors.
8. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
Finish off by drizzling balsamic glaze over each crostini. This sweet and tangy addition will elevate the flavors and make your dish even more delightful.
9. Season to Taste
If desired, sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the top for an added flavor boost.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
These crostini are best served immediately while the bread is still warm and the cheese is soft. Gather your friends and family to enjoy this elegant and delicious appetizer!
This recipe creates beautiful and delectable bites with the creamy Brie, savory prosciutto, peppery arugula, and a hint of sweetness from the balsamic glaze. Truly a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Brie?
Absolutely! If you can’t find Brie, camembert is a great alternative. You could also try goat cheese or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile, though the texture will be less creamy.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
Store leftover crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the toppings may become soggy. For the best quality, it’s recommended to store the toasted bread and toppings separately and assemble just before serving!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can toast the baguette slices in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Add the cheese, prosciutto, and arugula just before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Balsamic Glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, you can use a splash of balsamic vinegar; just drizzle it lightly so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors. Alternatively, a honey mustard dressing could add a nice sweetness!
