Blackberry Goat Cheese Crostini
These blackberry goat cheese crostini are a stunning and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties, brunches, or holidays. The creamy, tangy goat cheese pairs beautifully with sweet, juicy blackberries, all atop a crisp slice of baguette. A touch of honey or balsamic glaze and a sprig of rosemary can elevate the flavor and presentation even more.
Prep Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time (to toast the bread): 8–10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
4 oz (about 115g) goat cheese, softened
1 tbsp honey (plus more for drizzling) or balsamic glaze
1 cup fresh blackberries
1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing bread)
Optional: pinch of sea salt or cracked black pepper
Instructions:
Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the crostini:
Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
Lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Mix the cheese:
In a small bowl, combine the goat cheese with honey and chopped rosemary until smooth.
Assemble:
Spread a generous layer of the goat cheese mixture onto each toasted bread slice.
Top with 2–3 blackberries per piece.
Gently press the berries into the cheese so they stay in place.
Finish:
Drizzle with a bit more honey or balsamic glaze.
Garnish with extra rosemary sprigs if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Absolutely! Here are some tips and tasty variations to elevate your Blackberry Goat Cheese Crostini:
Tips:
Use room temperature goat cheese: It’s easier to spread and blends better with honey or herbs.
Toast in advance: Crostini can be toasted hours ahead of time—just store them in an airtight container.
Balance sweetness: If your blackberries are very sweet, you can skip the honey or drizzle only a small amount.
Make it elegant: Use a piping bag for the goat cheese for a more polished presentation.
Variations:
Whipped Goat Cheese:
Blend goat cheese with a splash of cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a smoother, fluffier spread.
Add a Jam Base:
Spread a thin layer of fig jam, blackberry preserves, or onion marmalade before adding the cheese for added depth.
Crispy Prosciutto:
Add a small crisped piece on top of the berries for a salty crunch.
Use Ricotta or Brie:
Swap goat cheese for whipped ricotta or a thin slice of creamy brie for a milder flavor.
Citrus Zest Finish:
A touch of lemon or orange zest brightens the dish and complements the berries beautifully.
Spicy Kick:
Add a tiny dab of hot honey or sprinkle of chili flakes for contrast.
Q&A:
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can toast the bread and mix the cheese mixture ahead. Assemble right before serving to prevent sogginess.
Q: Can I use frozen blackberries?
A: Not recommended—frozen berries tend to release too much moisture and become mushy. Fresh is best for texture.
Q: What can I use instead of goat cheese?
A: Try whipped ricotta, cream cheese, or even mascarpone for a milder flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store assembled crostini in the fridge for up to a day, but the bread will soften. Best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition (per crostini, estimated):
Calories: ~90
Fat: 4.5g
Carbs: 10g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
(Values will vary based on bread size, cheese amount, and drizzle choice)
Conclusion:
Blackberry Goat Cheese Crostini are the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, brunch, or simply want a gourmet snack, these bites deliver elegance with minimal effort. They’re endlessly customizable and always impressive on a platter.