Imagine a perfectly golden, lightly browned slice of baguette, kissed with a hint of coconut oil. On top, an indulgent, velvety smooth brown sugar cream cheese, followed by a vibrant layer of juicy, sweet strawberries. A delicate drizzle of rich chocolate completes this masterpiece, creating what we proudly call Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis – an irresistible treat that effortlessly blends simplicity with sophistication.
We are absolutely thrilled to share a very special recipe today – our very first READER-submitted gem! For years, we’ve cherished the opportunity to connect with our incredible community, finding wisdom and inspiration not just online, but directly from your kitchens. These delightful Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis are the inaugural offering in what we hope will be a long and delicious series of recipes straight from you, our valued readers!
Last month, we announced an exciting new initiative: the chance to be featured on Oh Sweet Basil. The response was overwhelming, filled with so many fantastic recipes! Among them, one particular submission from Kerri immediately captured our attention. Her Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis recipe had us completely smitten from the first bite.
What’s truly fascinating about this recipe is its unassuming appearance. As Kerri herself recounted, “I made this on a whim for a baby shower, and everyone absolutely raved about them! Then, everyone insisted I make them again for our Fourth of July celebration. That second time around, I actually paid attention to my measurements and wrote everything down.” There’s something inherently trustworthy about a recipe that sparks such enthusiastic demand at social gatherings. In our experience, if a dish captivates a crowd of women at a baby shower, it’s undoubtedly a winner and immediately earns a spot on our must-try list. The moment Kerri’s email landed in our inbox, we rushed to gather the ingredients the very next day, eager to give these crostinis a whirl.
And so, a new favorite was born. These aren’t just any crostinis; they’re an experience. Whether you’re planning a sophisticated brunch, a casual get-together, or simply craving a sweet escape, these easy-to-make bites will undoubtedly impress. They offer that perfect balance of textures – a satisfying crunch from the toasted baguette, a creamy indulgence from the spread, and the refreshing burst of fresh fruit, all elevated by a thoughtful finish. Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe!
Discovering the Magic of Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis
Kerri’s Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis effortlessly straddle the line between a delightful sweet appetizer and an elegant dessert, making them wonderfully versatile for any occasion. At their heart, they consist of a perfectly crisp slice of toasted baguette, generously spread with a smooth, luscious brown sugar cream cheese mixture. This creamy base is then crowned with a heap of freshly chopped, sweetened strawberries, delivering a burst of juicy flavor. While a final topping of choice adds an extra layer of indulgence, these crostinis are remarkably delicious even with just the berries, especially when you’re short on time.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its ease – coming together in a mere few minutes of active preparation – but also in its incredible adaptability. It’s a canvas for your culinary creativity, inviting you to experiment with various fruits and delightful toppings to suit your taste or the season.
Beyond Strawberries: What Fruits to Top Crostinis With
While strawberries are the star of this particular recipe, the world of crostini toppings is vast and inviting. Feel free to swap out or combine berries to create your own unique flavor profile. The key is to choose fresh, ripe fruit that complements the sweet cream cheese spread and the crisp baguette.
- Blueberries: Offer a gentle sweetness and a delightful pop of juice.
- Blackberries: Provide a slightly tart counterpoint, adding depth.
- Raspberries: Deliver a delicate tang and a beautiful, vibrant color.
- Strawberries: The classic choice for a reason – sweet, juicy, and universally loved.
- A Combination of Berries: A medley of seasonal berries creates a stunning visual and flavor experience. Think raspberries, blueberries, and sliced strawberries for a patriotic or festive touch.
- Seasonal Stone Fruits: In warmer months, consider finely diced peaches, nectarines, or even plums for a unique twist.
- Figs: When in season, fresh figs (sliced or quartered) pair beautifully with the creaminess and a hint of sweetness.
Elevate Your Crostini: Delicious Topping Ideas
Once you’ve layered your toasted baguette with brown sugar cream cheese and fresh fruit, the final flourish of a topping can truly transform your crostinis into a gourmet delight. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add visual appeal, making each bite an experience.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A classic pairing with strawberries. Use melted dark, milk, or white chocolate for a decadent touch.
- Powdered Sugar: A delicate dusting adds a touch of elegance and an extra hint of sweetness.
- Honey: A natural sweetener that offers a warm, floral note, perfectly complementing the fruit and cream cheese.
- Whipped Cream: A light, airy dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a wonderful contrasting texture and richness.
- Balsamic Vinegar / Balsamic Reduction: For an unexpected, sophisticated twist, a tiny drizzle of quality balsamic vinegar or a syrupy balsamic reduction provides a tangy, sweet-and-sour complexity that beautifully highlights the strawberries.
- White Chocolate Shavings or Drizzle: Offers a creamy, vanilla-infused sweetness that pairs wonderfully with red berries.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: A small sprig or finely chopped mint can add a refreshing aromatic finish.
- Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of finely chopped almonds, pistachios, or pecans can add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
See? The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes these crostinis so enjoyable to make and share! We’re not kidding when we say these Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis have become our new go-to party food. Honestly, they’re quickly becoming our new go-to food, period! They are genuinely mouth-watering, with a magical quality that we’re convinced comes from brushing the bread with coconut oil instead of traditional olive oil.
There’s absolutely no discernible coconut flavor, yet it imparts a subtle, almost indescribable “something” that elevates the crostini base. Combine that perfectly toasted, subtly sweet bread with the smooth, dreamy brown sugar cream cheese and those vibrant, juicy berries, and you have a match made in culinary heaven. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Crostini Explained: A Culinary Canvas
What is Crostini?
Originating from Italy, “crostini” literally means “little toasts.” These are small, thin slices of bread, typically from a baguette or similar artisan loaf, that are toasted until crisp. They serve as a perfect bite-sized base for a myriad of toppings, making them incredibly popular as appetizers, often served before a meal (antipasto) or alongside drinks. While closely related to bruschetta, crostini are generally smaller and thinner, usually toasted under a broiler or in an oven, whereas bruschetta is often grilled and typically larger.
Crafting the Perfect Crostini Base
How is Crostini Made?
The process of making crostini is wonderfully simple, yet it’s crucial for achieving that ideal crisp texture. It begins with slicing a good quality artisan bread, usually a baguette, into thin pieces. These slices are then lightly brushed with a little oil (in our case, coconut oil for that subtle magic) or butter, and then browned. The most common method is to place them under a broiler until they turn a beautiful light golden color, ensuring a crunchy exterior and a slightly chewy interior. Once toasted, the bread is allowed to cool completely, forming a sturdy and flavorful foundation for various toppings.
Choosing the Best Bread for Crostini
When it comes to crostini, the choice of bread is paramount to achieving the desired texture and size. Since these are intended to be small, crisp bites, usually served as an appetizer or, as in the case of our Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis, a delightful dessert, selecting the right loaf is key.
Which Bread for Crostini?
Baguettes are undoubtedly the best choice for crostini. Their slender shape and relatively dense crumb allow for uniform, small slices that crisp up beautifully without becoming too dense or too crumbly. Look for a fresh baguette with a good, firm crust that will toast well. Other artisan breads like a rustic Italian loaf or ciabatta can also work, but ensure they can be sliced thinly enough to maintain the bite-sized characteristic of crostini. The ideal thickness is generally between 1/4 and 1/2 inch. Just remember to keep a close eye on them while broiling – they are small and can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds!
Yield and Storage Tips for Crostini
How Many Crostini per Baguette?
This is a common question, and the answer can vary! Baguettes are not all created equal. When first experimenting with appetizer recipes, we often found that recipes called for “a baguette” without specifying the yield, making it tricky to estimate how much to buy for guests. Some bakeries sell very long, large baguettes that can yield up to 60 thin (1/4-inch) slices, while smaller, half-sized baguettes might only provide 20-30 slices. The exact number also depends on your slicing thickness; we’ve started cutting ours slightly thicker (closer to 1/2-inch) to give them a satisfying chew, which naturally reduces the total count per loaf. For entertaining, it’s always safer to err on the side of caution and have an extra baguette on hand.
How Should Crostini be Stored?
To ensure your crostini remain wonderfully crisp, proper storage is key. Once completely cooled, store plain, toasted crostini in a resealable airtight bag or container. The goal is to keep moisture out, preventing them from becoming stale or soggy. Avoid storing them in humid environments.
How Long Will Crostini Keep?
When stored correctly in an airtight container at room temperature, plain, toasted crostini will stay fresh and crisp for up to 1 week. After this period, their texture and flavor will start to degrade, so it’s best to discard them.
Maximizing Convenience: Making Crostini Ahead of Time
Can I Make Crostini Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Preparing appetizers or desserts for a party doesn’t have to be a last-minute scramble. Making components ahead of time is a fantastic way to ease stress and truly enjoy your event. You can certainly prepare the toasted baguette slices a few days in advance and store them properly until party day.
For the other components: the brown sugar cream cheese mixture can be prepared up to 2-3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The strawberries can be chopped and macerated a few hours (or even the morning of) before serving, stored in the refrigerator. However, a crucial warning: while the individual components store well, crostinis are always best assembled and eaten fresh. If they sit for too long after assembly, the bread can start to absorb moisture from the cream cheese and fruit, leading to sogginess. For the best texture, we highly recommend assembling them immediately before serving.
Can you Freeze Crostini?
Yes, you can! Freezing is an excellent way to prepare plain, toasted crostini even further in advance. To freeze crostini effectively, follow these simple steps:
- Cool Completely: Ensure your toasted baguette slices are entirely cooled to room temperature. Any residual warmth will create condensation in the bag, leading to ice crystals and sogginess.
- Package Properly: Place the cooled crostini in a freezer-safe bag. Gently press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Extra Protection: For added protection against freezer burn, consider wrapping the sealed bag in aluminum foil.
- Freeze: Place the wrapped bag in the freezer for up to 3 weeks.
- Defrost: When ready to use, simply take the crostini out of the freezer and let them defrost at room temperature. They should retain their crisp texture. You can also give them a quick toast in a dry pan or a warm oven for a few minutes to refresh their crispness.
More Delightful Appetizer and Sweet Treat Inspirations
Looking to expand your repertoire of crowd-pleasing appetizers and desserts? While chips and dips are always a hit, there’s a world of creative bites waiting to be discovered. Here are some of our favorite things to make, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying a delicious moment:
- Philly Cheesesteak Eggrolls: A savory and satisfying appetizer with a delightful crunch.
- Lemon Dill Cucumber Sandwiches: Light, refreshing, and perfect for a tea party or light lunch.
- Bacon Tomato Avocado Crostini: A savory crostini option packed with fresh flavors and a creamy finish.
- Strawberry and Blue Cheese Pizettes: An intriguing combination of sweet and savory on a miniature pizza base.
Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh Strawberries
- 1 Tablespoon Sugar
- Coconut Oil (for brushing)
- 1 Baguette, cut into 1/4-1/2″ slices
- 4 Ounces Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
- 3 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
- 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Toppings of Choice (e.g., chocolate, powdered sugar, whipped cream)
Instructions
- Chop the 2 lbs fresh Strawberries into small pieces and place them in a bowl with about 1 Tablespoon Sugar. Stir to coat the strawberries. Let them sit in the refrigerator to macerate for 15-60 minutes.
- Set your oven to High Broil. Spread Coconut Oil on both sides of each slice of 1 Baguette. *See note for tip.
- Arrange all the bread slices on a cookie sheet in a single layer. Broil them on the first side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Then, flip them over and broil the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, blend together the 4 Ounces Cream Cheese, 3 Tablespoons Brown Sugar, 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar, and 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Once the toasted baguettes are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each piece. Then, top each crostini with a spoonful of the macerated strawberries. *We recommend using a slotted spoon to drain off any excess juice from the strawberries to prevent the crostinis from becoming soggy.
- Finish with your chosen Toppings of Choice, such as a drizzle of your favorite kind of chocolate, a dusting of powdered sugar, or simply enjoy them plain for a fresh and delightful taste.
- These Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis are best when assembled and served immediately. If they sit for too long, the bread may begin to soften.
Recipe Notes
We found it even easier to use melted coconut oil with a pastry brush. If your kitchen is warm, the coconut oil might melt on its own, making it super simple to apply.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g, Calories: 55kcal, Carbohydrates: 9g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 2g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 4mg, Sodium: 64mg, Potassium: 62mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 54IU, Vitamin C: 18mg, Calcium: 16mg, Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Thank you for exploring this delightful recipe! We truly hope you enjoy creating and savoring these wonderful Brown Sugar Strawberry Crostinis. We love hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations.
REMEMBER TO SUBSCRIBE TO our FREE Oh Sweet Basil NEWSLETTER AND RECEIVE EASY RECIPES DELIVERED INTO YOUR INBOX EVERY DAY!
When you try a recipe, please use the hashtag #ohsweetbasil on INSTAGRAM for a chance to be featured in our stories! FOLLOW OH, SWEET BASIL ON FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST | TWITTER FOR ALL OF OUR LATEST CONTENT, RECIPES AND STORIES.
