Blackberry Balsamic Whipped Goat Cheese Crostini Recipe
This elegant Whipped Goat Cheese Crostini is a little savory, a little sweet, and nothing short of delectable. Build a batch of them for your next shower or party spread, or simply whip up a few for an afternoon snack. Although it takes only a few simple ingredients and mere minutes to make, it's sure to please even the most refined of palates!
Ingredients
For the crostini:
- 12 thin slices baguette
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the topping:
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- ¼ cup 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Sea salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 pint fresh blackberries
For garnish:
- Balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction, see notes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Additional lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375⁰ Fahrenheit, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the baguette slices onto the baking sheet about a half-inch apart.
- Brush the tops of each baguette slice with olive oil and sprinkle with salt & pepper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until slightly crisp and golden on the edges.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the cream cheese, goat cheese, honey, and half of the lemon zest until smooth.
- Add salt & pepper to taste and blend until thoroughly combined.
- Spread about a tablespoon of filling onto each slice of toasted baguette.
- Top each slice with 2-3 black raspberries.
- Garnish with a drizzle of balsamic, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and a sprig or sprinkle of fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Best when fresh: These crostini are best served immediately. Leftovers will become soggy and lose their texture.
- Baguette slicing: Cut your baguette into slices about ½ inch thick for the ideal balance of crispness and chew.
- Bread options: If you can't find a French baguette, Italian bread will work. If the slices are too large, cut them in halves or quarters.
- Stale bread works well: Slightly stale bread can actually yield a crustier, more satisfying base once toasted.
- Goat cheese spread storage: You can make the whipped goat cheese mixture up to 2–3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Stir before using.
- Make ahead: If you need to prepare in advance, I recommend storing each element separately. Toast the baguette slices and place them into an airtight container or large zip lock bag until needed. You can prepare the goat cheese and keep it refrigerated for 2-3 days before using. Give it a good stir before spreading. Add the berries and garnish just before serving.
- Balsamic reduction: To make your own, bring 1 cup of balsamic vinegar to a boil, then simmer for 12–14 minutes until reduced by about half. Let cool—it will thicken as it sits.
- Garnishing basil: Use whole leaves for a dramatic look or finely chop and sprinkle over the top for even distribution.
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