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Thanksgiving Cranberry and Pecan Crostini Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 33 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 crostini
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Thanksgiving cranberry and pecan crostini are bite-sized appetizers that combine the crispiness of toasted baguette slices with creamy cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these easy-to-make festive crostini offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors.


Ingredients

Bread Base

  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Toppings

  • 4 oz goat cheese or cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional garnish)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for toasting the baguette slices evenly and achieving a crispy texture.
  2. Toast Baguette Slices: Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with olive oil. Bake them for 8 to 10 minutes until they turn golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly to handle safely.
  3. Spread Cheese: Once the toasted baguette slices have cooled a bit, spread a generous layer of softened goat cheese or cream cheese on each slice as the creamy base for the toppings.
  4. Add Cranberry Sauce: Spoon a dollop of whole berry cranberry sauce over the cheese layer to add a tangy and sweet flavor contrast.
  5. Top with Pecans: Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans over the cranberry sauce to introduce a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Drizzle honey over the crostini if desired for added sweetness. Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt and garnish with freshly chopped rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch. Serve the crostini immediately or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • These crostini can be assembled up to 2 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator to save time before serving.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute goat cheese with brie or blue cheese.
  • For a homemade twist, use cranberry sauce made with orange zest and top with candied pecans for enhanced sweetness and texture.