Cranberry and Brie Crostini – Elegant Holiday Appetizer Idea
Looking for a simple yet stunning appetizer that’s perfect for the holidays? Cranberry and Brie Crostini is a festive bite that blends creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors all on a crisp, golden base. It’s effortless to make, visually impressive, and guaranteed to disappear in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or contributing to a potluck, this appetizer brings instant holiday charm.
Sweet, Savory, and Perfectly Balanced
The magic of this appetizer is in its flavor contrast—mild, creamy Brie meets tart cranberry sauce, all layered on a crunchy toasted baguette. Every bite is a balance of sweet and savory, soft and crisp, warm and fresh. It’s elegant enough for formal gatherings but easy enough for casual holiday snacking. Serve it warm for melty Brie goodness or at room temp for a no-fuss option.
Simple Ingredients, Festive Flavor
You don’t need many ingredients to pull off this elegant dish. A good-quality Brie, fresh or leftover cranberry sauce, and a crusty baguette are the essentials. With just a little olive oil and a few optional garnishes, you can turn pantry staples into a party-ready appetizer.
- 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 6 oz Brie cheese, cut into small pieces
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional toppings: chopped rosemary, crushed pecans, orange zest, or a drizzle of honey
Light Yet Rich in Flavor
While rich in texture and taste, this crostini is surprisingly light. Brie provides creamy indulgence without being heavy, while cranberry sauce adds brightness and natural sweetness. A couple of bites satisfy without overpowering your palate—perfect as a pre-dinner nibble or a wine-night pairing.
- Calories: ~180
- Carbs: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: ~180mg
Timing Breakdown
This appetizer comes together in minutes, making it ideal for last-minute holiday hosting. Toast the bread while prepping your toppings, then assemble and serve. It’s quick enough for a spontaneous gathering but special enough for a formal affair.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 18–20 minutes
How to Make Cranberry and Brie Crostini
With just a few simple steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing appetizer that looks as good as it tastes. Toasty crostini provide the perfect base for melty Brie and sweet-tart cranberry. Customize it with toppings for a gourmet finish.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Toast for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Top each crostini with a slice of Brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
- Optional: Return to oven for 2–3 minutes to slightly melt the Brie, or serve as is.
- Finish with garnishes like chopped rosemary, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of honey.
Customizations & Flavor Twists
This recipe is flexible and easy to tailor to your taste or what’s in your fridge. Whether you go savory, nutty, or even add a citrusy twist, there are endless ways to elevate the base. Here are some easy variations to try:
- Swap cranberry sauce for fig jam, cherry preserves, or pomegranate relish
- Use Camembert or goat cheese instead of Brie
- Add crispy bacon or prosciutto for a savory twist
- Garnish with candied walnuts or pistachios
- Sprinkle orange zest for brightness or drizzle balsamic glaze for depth
Perfect Pairings for Holiday Menus
Cranberry and Brie Crostini shine on their own but pair beautifully with a variety of holiday flavors. Their rich yet refreshing profile makes them an excellent companion to cocktails, wine, and festive entrees. They also work as a refined addition to charcuterie boards or brunch tables.
- Serve with sparkling wine, Pinot Noir, or apple cider
- Add to a cheese and fruit board for texture and color
- Pair with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or butternut squash soup
- Include in brunch spreads with mimosas and egg dishes
- Serve with a leafy green salad with citrus vinaigrette
Make-Ahead & Serving Tips
Hosting a crowd? These crostini are easy to prep in advance. Toast the bread and prep the toppings ahead of time, then assemble right before serving. Whether warm or room temp, they hold their flavor and texture beautifully.
- Toast baguette slices up to 1 day ahead—store in an airtight container
- Assemble up to 2 hours ahead and store covered at room temp
- To serve warm, assemble and bake briefly just before serving
- For crispiness, avoid refrigerating the crostini once assembled
- Best enjoyed within a few hours of assembling for freshness
Tips for Perfect Presentation
It’s easy to make this simple dish look polished and festive. A few thoughtful details—like tidy cheese cuts or bright garnishes—go a long way. Keep it bite-sized and colorful for maximum appeal.
- Use a serrated knife for clean baguette slices
- Cut Brie into small wedges or squares for even melting
- Spoon cranberry carefully to avoid overflowing
- Garnish each piece individually for consistent look
- Arrange on a wooden board or platter with herbs for a rustic touch
Conclusion: Elegant, Easy, and Full of Holiday Cheer
Cranberry and Brie Crostini is a holiday appetizer that checks all the boxes—it’s festive, flavorful, and fabulously easy to make. With creamy cheese, tart cranberry, and crisp bread in every bite, it’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent without being fussy. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply adding a special touch to your holiday table, this crostini is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Make a tray, pour the wine, and let the celebration begin.