There is something simply magical about the combination of crisp apples, creamy brie, and a hint of spicy sweetness that makes the Apple & Brie Crostini with Hot Honey Recipe an irresistible appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking to impress a few special guests, this dish balances fresh, savory, sweet, and spicy notes perfectly on a crunchy baguette base. Each bite delivers layers of texture and flavor that feel both sophisticated and delightfully approachable. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a favorite staple for entertaining or an indulgent treat on any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each plays a vital role in creating the complex harmony you’ll taste. These simple components ensure the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spicy in every crostini.
- French baguette: Provides the crunchy, yet light base that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- Brie cheese: Melts into a luscious, creamy layer that contrasts with the crisp apple slices.
- Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apple: Thinly sliced for a fresh, tart crunch that complements the richness of the brie.
- Prosciutto: Adds a salty, savory depth and a wonderful folded texture.
- Arugula: Brings a peppery freshness that cuts through the richness.
- Honey: The sweet foundation for the warm glaze that ties the whole dish together.
- Hot sauce or cayenne pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat in the hot honey topping for an exciting kick.
How to Make Apple & Brie Crostini with Hot Honey Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the baguette slices
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things neat and easy. Cut your baguette diagonally into half-inch slices—this angle gives each piece a lovely elongated shape great for piling on toppings. Arrange all the slices evenly across the sheet, and if you have a lot, don’t hesitate to use two baking sheets so they cook evenly without crowding.
Step 2: Bake the brie-topped baguette
Next, place a slice of brie cheese atop each baguette slice. Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 7 to 9 minutes. You’ll want to see the brie melt into soft, bubbly perfection without losing its shape completely—this soft cheese layer is what makes these crostini so decadently satisfying.
Step 3: Add fresh toppings immediately
Once the crostini come out of the oven, it’s time to add your fresh ingredients. Quickly top each piece with a thin apple slice, a rolled piece of savory prosciutto, and a few fresh arugula leaves. This step ensures the apple stays crisp, the prosciutto adds that salty pop, and the arugula introduces a bright, slightly bitter note that balances each bite.
Step 4: Make the hot honey glaze
In a small bowl, mix your honey and hot sauce (or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle heat). Warm this mixture in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds until it’s just warm enough to pour easily. Stir it well so the spice and sweetness combine elegantly, creating a glaze that’s fiery but sweet.
Step 5: Drizzle and serve immediately
Drizzle the warm hot honey generously over each assembled crostini right before serving. This final touch adds sticky, spicy sweetness that elevates the entire dish, making every bite burst with flavor. Serve them fresh for the best textural experience and watch them disappear quickly!
How to Serve Apple & Brie Crostini with Hot Honey Recipe
Garnishes
For a bit more flair, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh thyme or crushed pistachios on top; they add a lovely herbal note or a satisfying crunch respectively, taking this dish several notches higher in visual appeal and taste complexity.
Side Dishes
This crostini pairs beautifully with light, crisp salads—think a simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette or a citrusy beet salad. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling rosé complements the rich brie and the sweet-spicy honey wonderfully, rounding out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange the crostini on a rustic wooden board adorned with small bowls of leftover honey sauce and fresh fruit slices. You can also skewer some ingredients on toothpicks for an elegant appetizer finger food option that’s easy to grab and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover crostini, store the components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the toasted baguette slices and prosciutto wrapped airtight, and place the apple slices and arugula in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to prevent wilting. Brie is best sliced fresh if possible.
Freezing
This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the toasted baguette slices alone for up to two weeks. When ready to use, thaw and re-toast them briefly before assembling fresh toppings to maintain crispness and perfect texture.
Reheating
Reheat stored crostini by placing the baguette slices with brie under a broiler for just a minute or two until the cheese softens again. Then add fresh toppings and drizzle the hot honey glaze just before serving, preserving the fresh elements and vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are ideal for their balance of sweetness and tartness, other firm apples like Braeburn or Fuji can work wonderfully as well, just make sure they are crisp and thinly sliced.
Is there a substitute for prosciutto?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or can’t find prosciutto, try thinly sliced smoked gouda or a few walnuts for texture and richness, or simply omit it—these crostini are still delicious without the meat.
How spicy is this hot honey glaze?
The heat level is mild to moderate, depending on how much hot sauce or cayenne you add. You can always adjust to your taste, making it more fiery or just a hint of spice to enhance the sweetness.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute brie with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well, and replace honey with agave syrup combined with your preferred chili flakes for the glaze.
What’s the best bread to use if I don’t have a French baguette?
A rustic Italian or sourdough loaf sliced thin works beautifully, provided the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings and toast nicely without becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Apple & Brie Crostini with Hot Honey Recipe that just captivates your taste buds and invites second helpings. Its balance of fresh, creamy, sweet, and spicy is unmatched for an appetizer that’s both elegant and easy to make. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this delightful taste sensation with your loved ones!
Print
Apple & Brie Crostini with Hot Honey Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 crostini
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Apple & Brie Crostini with Hot Honey are a perfect appetizer combining creamy melted brie, crisp apple slices, savory prosciutto, and peppery arugula, all drizzled with a warm, sweet, and spicy honey glaze. Ideal for entertaining or a sophisticated snack, these crostini balance textures and flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Crostini
- 1 French baguette, cut diagonally into 1/2 inch slices
- 8 ounces brie cheese, sliced (enough slices for each crostini)
- 1 large Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
- 2 ounces prosciutto, cut into 20 pieces and rolled
- 1 cup arugula
For the Hot Honey
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (or substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baguette: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the sliced baguette pieces evenly on the baking sheet, using two sheets if needed to fit all slices.
- Melt Brie on Baguette: Place a slice of brie cheese on top of each baguette slice. Bake in the preheated oven for 7-9 minutes or until the brie is nicely melted and bubbly.
- Assemble Toppings: Once out of the oven, immediately top each piece with a thin slice of apple, a rolled piece of prosciutto, and a few fresh arugula leaves to add texture and flavor contrast.
- Prepare Hot Honey: In a small bowl, combine honey and hot sauce (or cayenne pepper). Microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm. Stir to blend the flavors well.
- Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle the warm hot honey over the assembled crostini just before serving to add a sweet and spicy glaze. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use a tart apple like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the creamy brie and sweet honey.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the hot sauce or cayenne to taste.
- For a vegetarian version, omit prosciutto or substitute with a vegetarian alternative.
- Prepare the hot honey just before serving to keep the glaze warm and pourable.
- If you don’t have a microwave, warm the honey and hot sauce gently on the stovetop.
