This Goat Cheese Crostini with fig jam is the perfect bite-sized appetizer! With creamy goat cheese, sweet fig jam and a tangy balsamic drizzle, each bite is bursting with flavor. The fresh thyme on top adds the perfect touch that makes it an extra special elegant appetizer. This recipe is ideal for gatherings or just a simple snack!
This recipe is super easy to throw together, making it great for just about any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, need a quick snack or want something a little fancy for wine night, these crostini have you covered. They come together fast but still pack tons of flavor and your guests will definitely love them. Serve them up at your next dinner party and watch how quickly they disappear!
If you are looking for more appetizer recipes, check out our: Crunchy Winter Kale and Pomegranate Salad Recipe, Pinwheel Sandwiches, Baked Clams Oreganata, Burrata and Prosciutto, or Healthy Mexican Street Corn Salad.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick - This recipe comes together in just a few steps. Simply toast the baguette slices, add the soft goat cheese and fig jam, then finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. It’s ready in about 15 minutes, making it a great last minute option for any occasion
- Simple - With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this crostini is super easy to make. It’s perfect even when you're short on time.
- Delicious - The mix of tangy goat cheese, sweet fig jam and tangy balsamic glaze is seriously so good. Every bite has just the right balance of flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for this easy appetizer:
- French Baguette: Use a fresh baguette for the best texture. I recommend using fresh, crusty bread in this recipe. I like to slice my bread in diagonal slices to get the most surface area out of each slice.
- Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Plain Goat cheese: I recommend using plain goat cheese for this recipe; however, if you have an herbed goat cheese on hand, that will work too.
- Fig jam: You can use any brand of fig jam or fig preserves. I love using Davina Orange Fig Jam in this recipe.
- Balsamic glaze
- Thyme: Use fresh thyme leaves. You can also use fresh rosemary or fresh basil.
How To Make Goat Cheese Crostini
Let's make this holiday season snack together!
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 2
Brush both sides of bread slices with olive oil.
Step 3
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4
Spread goat cheese on each slice, followed by a dollop of fig jam, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and fresh thyme. Serve and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to make this crostini appetizer:
- Adjust slicing - You can adjust the thickness of the baguette slices depending on how crunchy you prefer your crostini.
- Fresh ingredients - Fresh goat cheese, high-quality fig jam, and fresh thyme will elevate the flavors. If you can, opt for homemade balsamic glaze for an extra touch.
- Prepare in advance - You can toast the baguette slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Just add the toppings right before serving to keep them fresh.
Kitchen Equipment
Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this perfect appetizer. You can find all of these products on Amazon.
- Baking sheet - Use a good quality sheet pan for even cooking!
Recipe Substitutions/Variations
Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this goat cheese crostini recipe.
- Goat cheese - Substitute goat cheese with cream cheese, ricotta or brie for a different flavor and texture.
- Thyme - Swap fresh thyme for other fresh herbs like rosemary, basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Additions - Try adding a sprinkle of black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. Top the crostini with slices of pear, apple or fresh figs for added texture and flavor. Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy element.
What To Serve With
Here are some recipes to serve alongside the best appetizer:
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can prepare components of this ahead of time. Slice and toast the baguette slices in advance, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep the goat cheese and fig jam in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the crostini right before serving for the freshest taste.
For this recipe, a soft, creamy goat cheese works best, as it spreads easily and complements the fig jam nicely. Look for fresh goat cheese, which has a mild flavor and a smooth texture. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you could try aged goat cheese, which has a firmer texture and a more pronounced tang. Just make sure the cheese you choose is easy to spread on the baguette slices for the best results!
To make balsamic glaze from scratch, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half, which takes about 10-15 minutes. For added sweetness, you can mix in 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar. Once thickened, let it cool and store it in a jar in the refrigerator for several weeks.
Recipe Storage and Reheating
Here are storage and reheating instructions for this perfect holiday appetizer.
- Refrigerator Storage: Store the assembled crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few hours, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to enjoy them freshly assembled.
- Freezer Storage: Assembled crostini are not suitable for freezing, but you can freeze the toasted baguette slices separately and re-crisp them in the oven before adding the toppings.
Other Recipes to Try
Goat Cheese Crostini
Ingredients
- 1 Baguette or two demi baguettes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 oz Goat Cheese
- 4 tablespoons Fig Jam
- Balsamic Glaze for topping
- Fresh Thyme for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F.
- Slice the baguette. Place baguette slices on a lined baking tray and brush both sides with olive oil.
- Bake the baguette slices for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Top each baguette slice with goat cheese and fig jam. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, then top with fresh thyme and serve.
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