Cranberry Brie Toast is a tasty treat that’s perfect for any gathering. It features creamy Brie cheese topped with sweet cranberry sauce, all on crispy toasted bread.
These little bites are so easy to whip up, they almost make themselves! Perfect as a snack or a fancy appetizer. You might even eat more than you planned—who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or French bread: A baguette works perfectly for crispiness. If you can’t find one, try ciabatta or any crusty bread you have. Even sourdough can be a great choice for added flavor!
Brie cheese: Brie adds a creamy texture. If you’re out, Camembert is a good substitute; it’s similar in flavor. For a lighter option, goat cheese can work too, but it will change the taste a bit.
Cranberry sauce: You can use store-bought cranberry sauce, but making it fresh is fun! If you’re looking for less sugar, consider unsweetened apple sauce or a mix of chopped apples and cranberries for a twist.
Fresh thyme: Thyme gives a nice herbal note. If you don’t have it, rosemary or parsley could also work, adding different but lovely flavors. Dried thyme is fine in a pinch, just use a bit less.
How Do I Ensure My Toasts Are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting the right toast can make or break this dish. You want them crispy but not burnt. Here’s how:
- Slice the bread evenly, about 1/2 inch thick, to help them crisp uniformly.
- Preheat the oven, then place the bread on a baking sheet in a single layer to allow proper airflow.
- Watch carefully as they bake for 5-7 minutes. If they start turning golden, they’re ready! Let them cool for a minute before adding the toppings.
These steps will give you a great base for your Brie and cranberry toppings to really shine! Enjoy creating these delicious bites!
Cranberry Brie Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette or French bread loaf, sliced into 1/2 inch thick pieces
- 8 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- 1 cup fresh or canned cranberry sauce (see instructions for homemade version)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
- Optional: honey or balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s super quick for an appetizer and allows you to whip up a delicious treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot for toasting the bread. Preheating is key for that perfect crisp!
2. Toast the Bread:
Lay your slices of baguette out on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and let them toast for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
3. Add the Brie:
Once the bread is toasted, take it out of the oven carefully. Place a slice of Brie cheese on each toast while they’re still warm — this helps the cheese melt just a little, making it super creamy!
4. Top with Cranberry Sauce:
Spoon about a tablespoon of cranberry sauce onto each Brie-covered toast. You can use store-bought or make your own (instructions below!).
5. Garnish Your Toasts:
Add a small sprig of fresh thyme on top of each toast for a burst of flavor and a pretty look!
6. Optional Drizzle:
If you like a bit of sweetness, drizzle some honey or balsamic glaze over the top. It balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in right away while they’re warm and gooey! Perfect for sharing or as a treat for yourself.
Optional Homemade Cranberry Sauce:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a saucepan, mix 1 cup of fresh cranberries, 1/3 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, and a squeeze of fresh orange juice.
2. Cook the Sauce:
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and sauce thickens, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
3. Cool Down:
After it’s cooked, let the sauce cool before you use it on your toasts.
Enjoy this elegant and simple appetizer that combines creamy Brie with tart cranberry on crispy toast! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in! 🧀🍞
Can I Use Different Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Brie is classic, you can use Camembert for a similar flavor. If you want a tangier option, goat cheese works well too, but it will change the overall taste.
Can I Make the Toasts Ahead of Time?
You can prep the bread by toasting it in advance! Store the toasted slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Just add the toppings before serving to keep them fresh.
How Do I Store Leftover Toasts?
If you have leftovers, store the toasts in an airtight container in the fridge without the toppings for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy again, then add fresh toppings.
What Can I Substitute for Cranberry Sauce?
If you don’t have cranberry sauce, you can use homemade apple sauce or a mix of diced apples and cranberries for a sweet and tangy alternative. A berry jam could work in a pinch too!
