This Fig Jam Goat Cheese Crostini is a tasty little bite! Crunchy bread topped with creamy goat cheese and sweet fig jam makes for a delicious mix of flavors.
These crostini are perfect for a snack or a party. I love serving them with friends, and they always disappear fast. Who can resist that yummy combo? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A classic choice for crostini! If you want a different texture, try using a ciabatta or any crusty bread. You can also use gluten-free bread if needed.
Goat Cheese: I love using fresh goat cheese for its creamy texture. If you’re not a fan or if you have allergies, cream cheese or ricotta can work as substitutes.
Fig Jam: Sweet and rich fig jam adds amazing flavor. If you can’t find fig jam, any fruit preserve like raspberry or apricot will do well. You could even make your own if you have fresh figs!
Fresh Figs: These are optional, but fresh figs add a beautiful touch. If you can’t find them, sliced pears or apples can also provide a nice crunch and sweetness.
How Do You Toast the Bread Just Right?
Toasting the bread properly is key for great crostini. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot.
- Arrange bread slices evenly on a baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t crowded.
- Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. This helps them get crispy.
- Toast for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Let the toasted bread cool slightly before adding your toppings for a delicious crunchy base! Enjoy this bite-sized treat!
Fig Jam Goat Cheese Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 4 ounces goat cheese (chevre), softened
- 1/2 cup fig jam
- Fresh figs, sliced thinly (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- Olive oil for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to toast the bread, so plan on about 25 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy appetizer that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your crostini toast evenly and get that perfect crunch!
2. Prepare the Baguette Slices:
Next, take a baking sheet and arrange the baguette slices in a single layer. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven!
3. Toast the Bread:
Now, pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Toast the bread slices for about 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even toasting.
4. Cool and Top:
Once toasted, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, spread a generous layer of softened goat cheese on each slice. The warmth from the bread will help it spread easily!
5. Add the Fig Jam:
Spoon a dollop of fig jam over the goat cheese on each crostini. The sweet jam pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese, creating a delightful flavor combination.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, top each crostini with a thin slice of fresh fig for an extra touch of elegance. Finally, garnish with a small sprig of fresh thyme. Serve these tasty bites immediately and enjoy the delicious mix of flavors!
Can I Use Store-Bought Fig Jam?
Absolutely! Store-bought fig jam is a convenient and delicious option for this recipe. Just make sure to choose one that has good quality ingredients for the best flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with cream cheese, ricotta, or even mascarpone. These options will give you a creamy base while still complementing the fig jam nicely.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover crostini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the bread may lose its crispness. To revive it, simply pop it back in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the individual components ahead of time—toast the bread and store it in an airtight container, and make the cheese spread in advance. Assemble the crostini just before serving to keep the bread crispy!