These Roasted Grape and Brie Crostini are a delicious mix of sweet and creamy. Crispy bread topped with warm, gooey brie and juicy grapes is simply irresistible!
They’re great for parties or a cozy night in—trust me, they vanish fast! I love serving them with a drizzle of honey for that extra sweet touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
French Baguette: This provides the perfect crisp base for the crostini. If you can’t find a baguette, use Italian bread or any crusty bread. You could even try whole-grain for a healthier touch!
Red Grapes: Red grapes give a lovely sweetness. Green grapes can also work if you prefer a tarter flavor. Alternatively, try using roasted figs or pears for a unique twist.
Brie Cheese: Brie offers a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a stronger flavor, try a Camembert cheese. For a non-dairy option, use a vegan cheese that melts well.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma and flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried thyme can work too, but use about a third of the amount as dried herbs are stronger.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add crunch! Almonds or pecans are great alternatives. If you’re nut-free, simply leave them out or go for seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar texture.
How Do I Perfectly Roast Grapes?
Roasting grapes unlocks their natural sweetness, making them perfect for this dish. To roast them well:
- Spread grapes evenly on a baking sheet; this ensures they roast evenly.
- Toss them in olive oil and season with thyme, salt, and pepper. This enhances their flavor.
- Keep an eye on them in the oven! Roast until they’re soft and caramelized, usually 15-20 minutes. Stir halfway to ensure even roasting.
Let them cool a bit before topping your crostini; the warm grapes are a treat! Enjoy creating a delightful flavor balance with the creamy brie and crunchy bread.
Roasted Grape And Brie Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup red grapes, washed and dried
- 8 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun appetizer takes about 10 minutes for prep and an additional 25-30 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to enjoy these delicious Roasted Grape and Brie Crostini!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure a perfect roasting temperature for the grapes and a nice crisp for the bread.
2. Prepare the Grapes:
On a baking sheet, toss the washed and dried red grapes with olive oil, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor!
3. Roast the Grapes:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the grapes for about 15-20 minutes. They should become soft and slightly caramelized. Once done, take them out and set aside.
4. Toast the Baguette:
While the grapes are roasting, arrange the baguette slices on a different baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until they are crispy and lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Add the Brie:
Once the baguette slices are out of the oven, immediately place a slice of brie cheese on each warm toasted slice. This allows the cheese to soften beautifully.
6. Top with Grapes:
Now, spoon the warm roasted grapes over the brie on each crostini. The warmth of the grapes will make the brie even creamier!
7. Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for that lovely crunch. Add a few extra fresh thyme leaves for garnish.
8. Drizzle and Serve:
If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle some honey over the assembly. Serve immediately while they are warm—you’ll love the combination of flavors!
Enjoy these elegant and delicious Roasted Grape and Brie Crostini warm for the best flavor combination!
Can I Use Different Types of Grapes?
Absolutely! While red grapes provide a nice sweetness, you can also use green grapes for a slightly tart flavor or try roasted figs or pears for a unique twist.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
It’s best to enjoy these fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Prepare the Components in Advance?
Yes! You can roast the grapes and prepare the baguette slices a few hours ahead. Just assemble them right before serving to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
What Are Some Variations I Can Try?
Get creative! You can add a spread of fig jam or a sprinkle of balsamic reduction for added flavor. Swap out the walnuts for another nut or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version!