Description
This Pomegranate & Rosemary Goat Cheese Crostini is a show-stopping appetizer that’s perfect for the holiday season or any festive occasion. With creamy goat cheese, sweet pomegranate arils, fragrant rosemary, and a drizzle of honey on top of crispy crostini, this recipe is as elegant as it is simple to make.
Ingredients
For the Crostini:
- 1 loaf French baguette, sliced into ½–¾” thick rounds
- Olive oil for brushing
For the Cheese Spread:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves, finely minced
- 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1–2 tablespoons half-and-half (as needed for consistency)
For the Toppings:
- Pomegranate arils (from one pomegranate)
- 2 stems fresh rosemary leaves, lightly chopped
- Honey for drizzling
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crostini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
- Bake for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
- Optional: Rub a peeled garlic clove over the surface of the warm crostini for added flavor.
-
Make the Cheese Spread:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and rosemary, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, and the garlic-rosemary mixture. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- If the mixture feels too thick, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of half-and-half to reach your desired consistency.
-
Assemble the Crostini:
- Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
- Top each crostini with a handful of pomegranate arils.
- Sprinkle lightly with chopped rosemary and drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and garnish with extra pomegranate arils and rosemary sprigs for a festive presentation. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Bread Substitutions: Ciabatta or sourdough can work if you don’t have a baguette.
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey based on your preference. For a more savory version, omit the honey or use balsamic glaze instead.
- Storage Tips: Store the cheese spread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American