Crostini with Goat Cheese | Elegant Appetizer Recipe
1. Introduction
When you need an appetizer that’s both effortlessly elegant and full of flavor, Crostini with Goat Cheese delivers every time. Crisp, golden baguette slices serve as the base for smooth, tangy goat cheese and your choice of savory or sweet toppings — from roasted tomatoes to drizzles of honey.
These crostini are ideal for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or casual wine nights. They look impressive but are surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and endless topping possibilities, they strike the perfect balance between rustic charm and gourmet appeal.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfectly toasted crostini and pair them with creamy goat cheese and delicious toppings to create a platter that disappears as soon as you serve it.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
1. Baguette (1 loaf)
Thinly sliced and toasted to golden perfection. Choose a French baguette or any crusty bread with a tender interior.
2. Olive Oil (2–3 tablespoons)
Brushed onto bread before toasting for a crisp, flavorful bite. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
3. Goat Cheese (8 oz / 225 g)
Soft, tangy, and creamy — the star of this dish. Let it come to room temperature for easy spreading.
4. Fresh Herbs (thyme, basil, or parsley)
Add brightness and aroma. Fresh herbs pair beautifully with both savory and sweet toppings.
5. Salt and Black Pepper
A pinch enhances the goat cheese’s natural tang and balances sweetness or acidity in toppings.
Optional Toppings:
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy with olive oil and herbs.
- Caramelized Onions: Adds deep, savory flavor.
- Honey & Walnuts: Sweet, nutty, and balanced.
- Fig Jam or Balsamic Glaze: Elegant and slightly tangy.
- Prosciutto or Smoked Salmon: For a protein-rich option.
Dietary Options:
- Use gluten-free baguette for dietary restrictions.
- Substitute vegan goat cheese for a dairy-free version.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice baguette into ½-inch thick rounds and arrange on a baking sheet.
Step 2: Toast the Crostini
Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Cool slightly before adding toppings.
Tip: For extra flavor, rub each slice with a halved garlic clove while still warm.
Step 3: Prepare the Goat Cheese Spread
In a small bowl, whip goat cheese with a splash of cream or milk until smooth and spreadable.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
Top with your preferred ingredients (roasted tomatoes, caramelized onions, honey, or fresh herbs).
Step 5: Serve
Arrange crostini neatly on a platter.
Drizzle with olive oil or balsamic glaze just before serving for a polished finish.
4. Tips and Variations
Expert Tips:
- Always toast the bread just before serving for the best texture.
- Let goat cheese soften at room temperature for easier spreading.
- Mix sweet and savory toppings on one platter for variety.
- Prepare toppings in advance to make assembly quick.
Flavor Variations:
- Savory: Goat cheese + roasted cherry tomatoes + basil.
- Sweet: Goat cheese + honey + walnuts or fig jam.
- Earthy: Goat cheese + caramelized onions + thyme.
- Fresh: Goat cheese + cucumber + dill + lemon zest.
- Gourmet: Goat cheese + prosciutto + balsamic reduction.
5. Serving Suggestions
Perfect For:
- Cocktail parties
- Holiday gatherings
- Wine nights
- Dinner party starters
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve on a wooden or marble board with toppings arranged in sections.
- Garnish with extra herbs or edible flowers for a touch of color.
- Offer both sweet and savory versions for balance.
Pairing Ideas:
- Drinks: Crisp white wines, rosé, or Champagne.
- Sides: Pair with light salads, soup shots, or charcuterie boards.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Store plain toasted crostini in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Store assembled crostini in the fridge for up to 12 hours, but note they’ll soften over time.
Reheating:
- Re-crisp plain crostini in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Do not reheat assembled crostini; serve chilled or at room temperature.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can be made ahead by toasting the bread and prepping toppings separately.
- Whipping goat cheese with a splash of milk makes it lighter and creamier.
- Season each layer lightly — even a pinch of salt can make toppings shine.
- Serve with a variety of toppings to suit all tastes.
8. Nutrition Information (Per 2 Crostini)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Sodium | 190 mg |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Iron | 0.6 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Appetizer / Snack
Cuisine: French / Mediterranean
Servings: 20 crostini
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- Fresh herbs (thyme, basil, or parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: roasted tomatoes, caramelized onions, honey, walnuts, fig jam
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice baguette and brush with olive oil.
- Toast 8–10 minutes until golden.
- Whip goat cheese with a splash of milk, salt, and pepper.
- Spread cheese on each crostini and top with desired ingredients.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
🏷️ Diet Tags
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free Option
- Party Appetizer
- Mediterranean Inspired
🌿 Health Benefits
- Goat cheese provides healthy fats and calcium.
- Fresh herbs add antioxidants and aroma.
- Balanced combination of protein, carbs, and healthy fats for sustained energy.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make crostini ahead of time?
Yes, toast the bread and prep toppings separately. Assemble just before serving for best results.
2. What’s the best bread to use?
A crusty French baguette or Italian loaf works best for structure and flavor.
3. Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?
Yes, try ricotta, cream cheese, or whipped feta as alternatives.
4. How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
Let toasted crostini cool completely before spreading cheese or adding toppings.
5. Can I serve these cold?
Absolutely. They’re delicious served slightly chilled or at room temperature.
11. Final Thoughts
Crostini with Goat Cheese is the kind of appetizer that effortlessly blends simplicity and sophistication. With its crisp base, creamy topping, and endless flavor combinations, it’s a guaranteed crowd favorite.
Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or an intimate wine night, these crostini make entertaining both easy and elegant. Try different topping combinations, have fun with seasonal ingredients, and watch your guests reach for seconds every time!