Apple Cheddar & Almond Crostini
Description
This elegant crostini combines crisp apple slices, sharp aged cheddar, and toasted almonds layered onto golden, garlicky baguette to create the perfect balance of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy. It’s a fast and impressive appetizer for holidays, gatherings, or a cozy snack night.
Total Time: 20 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook/Toast: 10 minutes
Serves: 12–16 crostini (depending on bread size)
Ingredients
For the Crostini
1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces (12–16 slices)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, peeled (for rubbing)
For the Topping
1 large crisp apple (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala), thinly sliced
1 cup sharp aged cheddar (white or yellow), thinly sliced or shredded
¼ cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
1–2 tsp lemon juice (to keep apples from browning)
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional drizzle)
Fresh thyme leaves (optional garnish)
Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the Crostini (10 minutes)
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
Brush lightly with olive oil.
Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes, until golden on the edges.
While still warm, gently rub each slice with the garlic clove.
2. Prepare the Apple and Almonds (2 minutes)
Slice your apple thinly.
Toss slices in a small bowl with 1–2 tsp lemon juice to prevent browning.
Toast almonds in a dry skillet for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Assemble the Crostini (3–5 minutes)
Add a layer of cheddar to each crostini.
Place 1–2 apple slices on top.
Sprinkle with toasted almonds.
Optional: Drizzle a tiny amount of honey or maple syrup.
Finish with thyme leaves and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
4. Serve
Serve immediately while the crostini are warm and crisp.
Tips & Variations
Flavor Boosters
Add a smear of fig jam, apple butter, or honey mustard before the cheese.
Swap cheddar for Gruyère, Manchego, or smoked cheddar.
Add prosciutto for a more savory appetizer.
Make-Ahead Tips
Toast bread up to 24 hours in advance; store in an airtight container.
Slice apples just before assembling to maintain freshness.
Storing & Reheating
Crostini are best fresh, but you can:
Store assembled pieces (without apples) for 4 hours at room temperature.
Re-crisp toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–4 minutes.
Questions & Answers (Q&A)
Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Yes—toast the crostini up to a day ahead. Assemble with apples no more than 1 hour before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: You can, but freshly sliced or grated cheddar melts and tastes better because it lacks anti-caking agents.
Q: What apples work best?
A: Crisp, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady give the best flavor and hold their shape.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes—use a gluten-free baguette or crackers.
Q: Do the almonds have to be toasted?
A: Toasting enhances their flavor and crunch, but raw almonds can be used in a pinch.