Quick Cranberry Brie Crostini

Featured in: Vegetarian & Plant-Based Grill

This festive appetizer features creamy Brie melted over crispy toasted baguette slices, topped with a tangy cranberry sauce and fresh rosemary. The combination of smooth cheese, sweet-tart cranberry, and crunchy bread creates a delicious balance that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or quick entertaining. Optional touches of honey and toasted nuts add extra depth and texture. It’s simple to prepare, requiring only a few minutes in the oven, making it an elegant yet easy starter.

Updated on Tue, 25 Nov 2025 08:32:00 GMT
Warm and savory cranberry brie crostini, with melted brie and cranberry compote on toasted baguette. Save
Warm and savory cranberry brie crostini, with melted brie and cranberry compote on toasted baguette. | bitegrill.com

A festive and elegant appetizer featuring creamy Brie, tangy cranberry sauce, and crispy toasted baguette slices—perfect for entertaining or holiday gatherings.

This appetizer was a hit at my last holiday party and received so many compliments from guests.

Ingredients

  • Bread: 1 French baguette, sliced into 12 (1/2-inch) rounds
  • Cheese: 120 g (4 oz) Brie cheese, rind removed if desired, sliced
  • Topping: 120 g (1/2 cup) cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • Topping: 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • Topping: 1 tbsp honey (optional)
  • Topping: 1 tbsp chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • For Serving: Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
Arrange the baguette slices on the baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 4–5 minutes, until lightly golden.
Step 3:
Remove from the oven and place a slice of Brie on each toasted baguette round.
Step 4:
Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes, just until the Brie starts to melt.
Step 5:
Top each crostini with a spoonful of cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of chopped rosemary.
Step 6:
Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with nuts, if using.
Step 7:
Garnish with extra rosemary and a crack of black pepper, if desired. Serve warm.
Golden, bubbly cranberry brie crostini ready to be enjoyed, garnished with fresh rosemary for a treat. Save
Golden, bubbly cranberry brie crostini ready to be enjoyed, garnished with fresh rosemary for a treat. | bitegrill.com

This recipe brings my family together every holiday season; we love sharing these bite-sized treats with laughter and stories.

Notes

Pair with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or a light Pinot Noir for the best experience.

Required Tools

Baking sheet, sharp knife, parchment paper, and a small spoon make prep a breeze.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (Brie cheese), gluten (baguette), and tree nuts (if using pecans or walnuts). Always check product labels for potential allergens.

Sweet and tangy cranberry brie crostini appetizer, boasting crispy bread and creamy deliciousness with a bite. Save
Sweet and tangy cranberry brie crostini appetizer, boasting crispy bread and creamy deliciousness with a bite. | bitegrill.com

These Quick Cranberry Brie Crostini are the perfect blend of savory and sweet, sure to impress your guests.

Recipe FAQ

What type of bread works best for crostini?

A sliced French baguette is ideal for crostini due to its firm texture and ability to toast crisp without becoming too hard.

Can I substitute cranberry sauce with other toppings?

Yes, fig or cherry preserves can provide a similarly sweet and tangy flavor to complement the Brie.

How do I prevent the Brie from melting too much?

Toast the baguette slices first, then add Brie and return to the oven just until it starts to soften, avoiding over-melting.

Are there nut alternatives for topping?

You can use chopped toasted pecans, walnuts, or omit nuts altogether based on preference or allergies.

What beverages pair well with cranberry Brie crostini?

Light sparkling wine or a chilled Pinot Noir enhances the flavors and complements the tangy cranberry and creamy cheese.

Can I add savory elements to this appetizer?

Adding a thin slice of prosciutto beneath the Brie brings a savory contrast to the sweet and creamy layers.

Quick Cranberry Brie Crostini

Creamy Brie and tangy cranberry atop toasted baguette for a festive appetizer.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
10 min
Complete duration
20 min
Created by Ethan Walker


Skill Level Easy

Heritage French-Inspired

Output 12 Portions

Dietary considerations Meat-Free

Components

Bread

01 1 French baguette, sliced into 12 rounds approximately 1/2 inch thick

Cheese

01 4 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed if desired, sliced

Topping

01 1/2 cup cranberry sauce, homemade or store-bought
02 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped, plus additional for garnish
03 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
04 1 tablespoon chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)

For Serving

01 Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)

Method

Phase 01

Preheat oven: Set the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Phase 02

Toast baguette slices: Arrange the baguette rounds on the baking sheet and toast for 4 to 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Phase 03

Add Brie: Remove the toasted slices from the oven and place a slice of Brie cheese on each.

Phase 04

Melt Brie: Return the baking sheet to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes until the Brie begins to soften and melt.

Phase 05

Add cranberry topping: Spoon cranberry sauce onto each crostini and sprinkle with chopped rosemary.

Phase 06

Optional garnishes: Drizzle honey and sprinkle nuts over the top if desired.

Phase 07

Final touch and serve: Garnish with extra rosemary and freshly cracked black pepper, then serve warm.

Tools needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Small spoon

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult with healthcare providers if you're uncertain about sensitivities.
  • Contains dairy (Brie), gluten (baguette), and tree nuts if nuts are used.

Nutritional information (each portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 105
  • Fats: 4.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Proteins: 3 g