Cheddar and Apple Crostini
Cheddar and Apple Crostini is a simple, tasty snack that brings together the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the crisp sweetness of fresh apples on a crunchy toasted baguette slice.…
Tip: save now, cook later.Cheddar and Apple Crostini is a simple, tasty snack that brings together the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the crisp sweetness of fresh apples on a crunchy toasted baguette slice. The combination of creamy cheese and juicy apple makes for a wonderful mix of textures and flavors that’s both light and satisfying.
I love making these crostini when I want a quick bite that feels a little fancy but doesn’t need much effort. Sometimes I drizzle a touch of honey or add a sprinkle of cinnamon to give it a warm, sweet twist. It’s one of those easy snacks that everyone seems to enjoy, whether for a casual get-together or a cozy afternoon at home.
One of my favorite things about cheddar and apple crostini is how versatile it is. You can change up the type of apple or cheese to match what you have on hand, and it still tastes fantastic. I often serve it alongside a simple salad or cup of soup, turning this little appetizer into a perfect mini meal on busy days.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A good baguette with a crusty outside and soft inside is key. If you can’t find a baguette, a rustic Italian bread or sourdough loaf also works well as a base.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold, tangy flavor that pairs nicely with sweet apples. Mild cheddar works if you want a gentler taste. You can also try gouda or gruyère for a creamier texture.
Apples: I prefer Fuji or Honeycrisp for their sweetness and crispness. Granny Smith’s tartness works too if you want a sharper contrast with the cheese.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds a wonderful herbal note that brightens the crostini. If you don’t have rosemary, thyme or sage can be nice substitutes.
How Do You Get Crostini Crunchy but Not Burnt?
Toasting the bread just right is key for perfect crostini. Here’s how I make sure they’re golden and crunchy without burning:
- Preheat the oven well so it’s hot enough to toast quickly.
- Brush the bread lightly with olive oil to help it crisp up and brown evenly.
- Toast for about 5-7 minutes, but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t darken too much.
- If some slices toast faster, remove them early to avoid bitterness.
This method gives you crostini with a satisfying crunch that holds up under the melted cheese and juicy apple.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for toasting the baguette slices evenly without sticking.
- Pastry brush – helps you spread olive oil on the bread for crisp, golden toasts.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing the baguette and apples easy and safe.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace clean while you prepare ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheddar for brie or goat cheese for a creamier, tangier bite that pairs well with apples.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a warm, spiced flavor perfect in fall.
- Top with thin prosciutto slices for a salty contrast that balances the sweet apple.
- Try different apples like tart Granny Smith or sweet Fuji depending on the flavor contrast you want.
Cheddar and Apple Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 baguette, sliced into ½ inch slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Toppings:
- 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, sliced
- 1 large apple (like Fuji or Honeycrisp), thinly sliced
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: honey for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes total: 5 minutes to prep the baguette and toppings, then about 10 minutes to toast and melt the cheese in the oven. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush each lightly with olive oil. Toast for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crisp.
2. Add Cheese and Melt:
Remove the bread from the oven and place a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on each piece. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese starts to melt beautifully.
3. Top with Apple and Garnish:
Take the crostini out of the oven and immediately layer thin apple slices on top of the melted cheese. Garnish each with a small rosemary sprig and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle a little honey over them if you like some extra sweetness.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crostini warm and enjoy this crisp, cheesy, and fruity treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar works best for its bold flavor, you can substitute with gouda, gruyère, or brie for a creamier texture and unique taste.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Rosemary?
No worries! You can use dried rosemary sparingly or swap it with other herbs like thyme or sage, which also pair nicely with apple and cheddar.
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
Store leftover crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven to keep the bread crispy and the cheese melty.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can toast the bread and slice the cheese and apples ahead, but assemble and melt the cheese just before serving to ensure the crostini stay fresh and crispy.
