When I first tasted the heavenly blend of roasted grapes and creamy brie atop toasted baguette slices, I immediately knew I had stumbled onto something special. The comforting aroma of the grapes caramelizing in the oven mixed with the rich notes of melted brie is a siren’s call for anyone who’s ever yearned for a gourmet appetizer that’s effortlessly chic.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weekend brunches, my Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt transforms everyday ingredients into a delightful treat that will impress your family and guests alike. The combination of sweet, juicy grapes drizzled with a hint of honey, paired with the crunchy baguette and aromatic rosemary, creates a simple yet sophisticated balance of flavors that dance on your palate.
Whether you’re an experienced chef or just someone looking to break away from the fast food routine, this easy and adaptable appetizer is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Join me as we create a dish that’s not just food, but a joyful experience for the senses!
Why will you love Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini?
Unique Flavor Combo: The sweet roasted grapes paired with creamy brie create an unforgettable taste sensation that leaves your guests raving.
Effortless Elegance: This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for any holiday table.
Versatile Adaptation: Easily swap in seasonal fruits or different cheeses to keep it fresh and exciting.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for sharing, it pairs wonderfully with wine, making it a hit at gatherings.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip this up in no time! Enjoy a gourmet touch with this delightful appetizer.
Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini Ingredients
For the Crostini
• Seedless Red Grapes – Adds natural sweetness and a juicy texture; can substitute with green grapes or figs for variety.
• Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and promotes even roasting; opt for extra virgin for the best taste.
• French Baguette – Provides a crusty base and soft interior; gluten-free alternatives include a gluten-free baguette or crackers.
• Brie Cheese – Creamy cheese that melts beautifully, contributing richness; try Camembert for a different flavor.
For the Drizzle and Topping
• Honey – Natural sweetness complements the grapes and cheese; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
• Maldon Sea Salt – Adds a crunchy texture and savory taste; regular sea salt is fine, but Maldon’s flakiness is special.
• Chopped Toasted Walnuts – Provides crunch and nutty flavor; omit for nut-free options or substitute with sunflower seeds.
• Fresh Diced Rosemary – Offers an aromatic herbal note; thyme is a suitable substitute or you can omit for simplicity.
How to Make Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot environment will caramelize the grapes and create the perfect base for your melted brie.
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Toss grapes on a nonstick baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of Maldon sea salt. Roast for approximately 15 minutes, until the grapes burst and begin to wrinkle, releasing their sweet juices.
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Prepare the baguette by arranging slices on a separate baking sheet. Brush them lightly with the remaining olive oil, and top each slice with generous pieces of brie. Bake for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
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Assemble the crostini by spooning the roasted grapes over the melted brie, then drizzle with honey. Sprinkle with walnuts, a dash of sea salt, and finish with fresh rosemary for a fragrant garnish.
Optional: For an extra flavor kick, toast the walnuts before adding them to the crostini.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini?
Imagine a gathering bursting with laughter and the delectable aroma of gourmet flavors—a perfect night awaits!
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the crostini, offering a delightful crunch.
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Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Their savory-sweet profile mirrors the flavors of the crostini, creating harmony in every bite. Perfect for those festive occasions!
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Sliced Pears and Prosciutto: This classic pairing provides a sweet-and-salty contrast, enhancing the creamy brie beautifully while adding sophistication to your platter.
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Roasted Vegetable Platter: Colorful, caramelized veggies add earthy tones, making a lovely visual and textual contrast alongside the crostini.
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Red Wine: A fruity Pinot Noir or a light Merlot brings out the sweet notes in the grapes, tying your meal together in the most delightful way.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing palate cleanser, it balances the rich flavors, allowing guests to enjoy each decadent bite without feeling overwhelmed.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet finish, these decadent bites provide a lovely contrast to the savory crostini while indulging a sweet tooth.
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Cheese Board: Include a variety of cheeses, crackers, and nuts to complement the crostini and offer a feast for the senses that your guests will love!
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Herbed Olive Tapenade: A zesty alternative to spread on the baguette, it enhances the flavor profile and adds a hint of Mediterranean flair to your appetizer spread.
Expert Tips for Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini
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Toasty Goodness: Toast the walnuts lightly before using; this enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your crostini.
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Soggy No More: Assemble the crostini just before serving to prevent sogginess; keep ingredients prepped and ready for a last-minute assembly.
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Layering Flavors: Don’t shy away from experimenting! Use herbs like thyme instead of rosemary or swap fruits to match seasonal availability in your Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini.
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Quality Matters: Always opt for extra virgin olive oil for deeper, richer flavors rather than refined oils; it makes a noticeable difference in taste.
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Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store the components separately but consume them within a couple of days for the best taste and texture.
Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini Variations
Get ready to personalize this delightful recipe in a way that suits your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Swap French baguette for gluten-free baguette or crunchy rice crackers to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
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Herb Infusion: Change up fresh rosemary for thyme or even fresh basil for a burst of different flavor that dances with the sweetness of grapes!
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Vegan Option: Replace brie with a creamy vegan cheese and use maple syrup in place of honey for a delicious plant-based twist.
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Cream Cheese Magic: Substitute brie for cream cheese for a tangy and smooth alternative that pairs beautifully with roasted grapes.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before roasting the grapes for a surprising spicy punch that contrasts with their sweetness.
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Nut-Free Delight: Omit walnuts altogether and use pumpkin seeds for crunch, maintaining all the flavor while keeping it nut-free.
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Fruit Variation: Experiment with caramelized figs or sliced pears for new flavors that bring seasonal joy to each crostini.
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Savory Blend: Replace honey with balsamic glaze for a tangy depth that complements the sweet grapes, offering a complex taste profile that impresses.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy gatherings! You can roast the grapes up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their sweetness and texture. Additionally, you can slice the baguette and brie ahead of time, keeping them in separate airtight bags to prevent moisture from making them soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the oven, assemble the crostini with the roasted grapes, honey, and toppings, and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful appetizer with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini
Fridge: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy chilled or reheat in the oven to revive their deliciousness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled crostini for up to 1 month. Separate the grapes and brie from the baguette to avoid sogginess, thaw before baking.
Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake frozen crostini for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps to maintain the lovely texture of your Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini.
Tip: Assemble fresh just before serving to keep that delightful crunch!
Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe FAQs
What type of grapes should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Seedless red grapes are my go-to for their natural sweetness and juicy texture. However, you can also experiment with green grapes or even figs for a different, seasonal touch.
How should I store leftovers?
It’s best to enjoy these crostini fresh! However, if you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are delightful chilled or can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Can I freeze Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, assemble the crostini but keep the grapes and brie separate from the baguette. Freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
What should I do if my crostini are soggy?
To prevent sogginess, avoid fully assembling the crostini ahead of time. I recommend prepping all the components—roasted grapes, melted brie, and toasted baguette slices—and assembling them just before serving. This keeps each bite crispy and enjoyable!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe is naturally nut-free and vegetarian. If you have nut allergies, simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. For vegan options, replace brie with a plant-based cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey.
What can I substitute for ingredients if I want to make adjustments?
The beauty of this Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini is its versatility! You can easily swap grapes for roasted pears or figs, use different cheeses such as goat cheese, or even play around with herbs—try thyme instead of rosemary for a different flavor. The more the merrier in your kitchen!
Irresistible Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey + Sea Salt
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss grapes on a nonstick baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of Maldon sea salt. Roast for approximately 15 minutes, until the grapes burst and begin to wrinkle.
- Prepare the baguette by arranging slices on a separate baking sheet. Brush them lightly with the remaining olive oil, and top each slice with generous pieces of brie. Bake for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Assemble the crostini by spooning the roasted grapes over the melted brie, then drizzle with honey. Sprinkle with walnuts, a dash of sea salt, and finish with fresh rosemary.