Description
These irresistibly easy Apple and Goat Cheese Crostini combine the creaminess of goat cheese, the natural sweetness of fresh apples, and the crunch of walnuts, all enhanced by the aromatic hint of thyme. Perfect for entertaining or a sophisticated snack, these crostini are a balanced blend of flavors and textures that come together quickly and effortlessly.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Oil
- 16 slices baguette, ½ inch thick (Any crusty bread works well)
- Olive oil (For brushing the baguette)
Cheese and Toppings
- 200 g softened goat cheese (about ¾–1 cup; cream cheese can also be used as a substitute)
- 2 tbsp honey, divided (or maple syrup as an alternative)
- 1 Zebroff Red Delicious apple, thinly sliced (any firm variety will work)
- 1 tsp fresh minced thyme leaves (or dried thyme in smaller quantity)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (pecans or almonds can be substituted)
- Ground pepper to taste (freshly cracked recommended)
- Sea salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Baguette: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush both sides of the baguette slices lightly with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Toast the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the slices for about 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the baguette is golden brown and crisp. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Mix Goat Cheese and Honey: In a small bowl, blend the softened goat cheese with 1 tablespoon of honey until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add sweetness and balance to the tangy cheese.
- Prepare Apple Slices: In another bowl, toss the thin apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning and to add brightness to the flavor. Then sprinkle the minced thyme over them and mix gently.
- Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous layer of the goat cheese and honey mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Arrange the apple slices on top evenly.
- Add Walnuts and Season: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the apple-topped crostini. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of honey over them, then add sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use firm, crisp apples for the best texture contrast; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well.
- If you don’t have fresh thyme, use about ½ teaspoon of dried thyme instead.
- Maple syrup can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative to honey.
- For a nut-free version, omit walnuts or substitute with roasted pumpkin seeds.
- These crostini are best served fresh to retain their crunch.
