If you’re searching for a bite-sized appetizer that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and absolutely irresistible flavors, look no further than the Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe. This elegant yet easy crowd-pleaser brings together warm, caramelized grapes, creamy melting brie, a drizzle of golden honey, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on crisp baguette slices, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will impress everyone at your next gathering. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make, and it’s guaranteed to become your new go-to for special occasions or cozy weekends at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe lies in its uncomplicated yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from the juicy grapes bursting with sweetness to the silken brie that melts just right, creating that gorgeous contrast against the crunchy crostini.
- 4 cups seedless red grapes: Ripe grapes add natural sweetness and a juicy pop when roasted.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Olive oil enhances roasting and crisps the bread perfectly without overpowering flavors.
- 1 French baguette, cut diagonally into 1/2 inch slices: The sturdy but airy bread is ideal for holding all the toppings while providing a satisfying crunch.
- 8 ounces brie cheese, sliced: Brie lends a rich, creamy layer that effortlessly melts and pairs beautifully with sweet and salty elements.
- 1-2 tablespoons honey, for drizzling: Honey adds a touch of floral sweetness that brings everything together harmoniously.
- Maldon sea salt, for sprinkling: The flaky texture and burst of saltiness elevate the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- ¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts: Walnuts provide a crunchy, earthy note and bring a lovely contrast in texture.
- 1 teaspoon fresh diced rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds an aromatic, herbal touch that makes these crostini utterly irresistible.
How to Make Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Grapes
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit because the first step is all about coaxing out the natural sweetness of the grapes. Toss the seedless red grapes with half of the olive oil and a pinch of sea salt, then spread them out on a nonstick baking sheet. Pop them into the oven for about 15 minutes, during which they will soften, shrivel, and take on a luscious caramelized flavor. Keep an eye on them—they should look plump with a little burst beginning to happen but not completely collapsed. Set the roasted grapes aside to cool; this process adds that deep, jammy flavor that makes the crostini unforgettable.
Step 2: Prepare the Crostini Base
While the grapes are roasting, arrange your baguette slices on a separate baking sheet. Brush each slice with the remaining olive oil to ensure they crisp up beautifully in the oven. Top every slice generously with a piece of sliced brie. Bake the crostini for 5 to 7 minutes, just until the brie melts and starts to bubble—this creamy layer is the perfect foundation for the gorgeous toppings to come.
Step 3: Assemble and Finish
Now for the fun part: spoon those warm, roasted grapes on top of the melted brie. Drizzle honey generously over the crostini to bring out a bright floral sweetness. Sprinkle toasted walnuts for a satisfying crunch, add a light pinch of Maldon sea salt to enhance all the flavors, and finish with a scattering of freshly diced rosemary. The aroma alone will have everyone reaching for a plate!
How to Serve Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh rosemary and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt are classic garnishes that give these crostini their final pop of flavor and sophistication. You can also experiment with a few extra toasted nuts or a few leaves of fresh thyme for a different herbal kick. These small touches not only make the crostini look stunning but also enhance the layers of taste.
Side Dishes
This appetizer shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light salads featuring citrus or bitter greens like arugula or radicchio. A crisp, dry white wine or sparkling rosé also makes for a perfect accompaniment, balancing the creamy richness and sweet notes gracefully. For a heartier spread, try adding charcuterie selections like fig jam and prosciutto alongside your crostini for a full flavor feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving the Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe on a rustic wooden board or elegant slate platter gives your party table a charming touch. You can also arrange crostini in a circular pattern around a small bowl of honey for dipping or place them individually on small appetizer plates garnished with whole rosemary sprigs for an inviting look. Mixing in colorful edible flowers adds a whimsical, festive vibe that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover crostini are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the bread from getting too soggy, store the roasted grapes separately and assemble just before serving. This helps maintain the signature crispness and fresh flavors of each component.
Freezing
While crostini are always best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the roasted grapes alone in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. When ready to use, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before assembling. Avoid freezing the crostini with brie, as texture changes can affect the bread and cheese.
Reheating
To warm up assembled crostini, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place them on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes, just until the brie softens again and everything is warmed through. Be mindful not to overheat, or you might lose that perfect crispy edge on the bread and risk melting the honey too much.
FAQs
Can I use green grapes instead of red grapes?
Absolutely! Green grapes will work just as well in the Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe. They may be slightly less sweet, so you might want to add a touch more honey to balance the flavors.
Is there a substitute for brie cheese?
If brie is not available, a creamy camembert or even a mild goat cheese can be delicious alternatives. Each will bring its own unique creaminess and tang that complements the roasted grapes and honey nicely.
Can these crostini be made vegan?
Yes! Swap out brie for a plant-based creamy cheese, use a vegan-friendly honey alternative like maple syrup or agave, and you can still create a delicious version of the Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe.
How far in advance can I prepare these crostini?
The components can be prepped a day ahead—the grapes can be roasted and refrigerated, and the baguette slices can be pre-toasted. Assemble just before serving to preserve the fresh textures and flavors.
What type of honey is best to use for drizzling?
A mild, floral honey like clover or acacia is ideal since it complements but doesn’t overpower the other flavors. If you want a richer note, try wildflower honey for a bolder touch.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough trying the Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe at your next gathering or for a special treat at home. It’s simple to make, visually stunning, and a perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Go ahead and surprise yourself and your loved ones with this elegant yet comforting appetizer that feels as good as it tastes!
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Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 20-24 crostini
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Description
These Roasted Grape & Brie Crostini with Honey and Sea Salt feature sweet, roasted grapes paired with creamy brie on toasted baguette slices, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with crunchy toasted walnuts and fresh rosemary. This elegant appetizer balances sweet and savory flavors, perfect for holidays, parties, brunches, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Grapes
- 4 cups seedless red grapes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Maldon sea salt, for sprinkling
Bread & Cheese
- 1 French baguette, cut diagonally into 1/2 inch slices (about 20–24 slices)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces brie cheese, sliced
Toppings & Garnish
- 1–2 tablespoons honey, for drizzling
- Maldon sea salt, for sprinkling
- ¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts
- 1 teaspoon fresh diced rosemary
Instructions
- Roast the Grapes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seedless red grapes on a nonstick baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Toss gently to coat the grapes evenly. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes, until the grapes begin to burst and shrivel slightly. Remove from oven and set aside to cool while keeping the oven temperature steady.
- Prepare the Crostini: Arrange the baguette slices on a separate baking sheet. Brush each slice with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Layer each slice with a piece of brie cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the brie has melted and the bread is crispy.
- Assemble the Crostini: Remove the baguette slices from the oven. Spoon the roasted grapes evenly over the melted brie on each crostini. Drizzle honey generously over the top, then sprinkle with chopped toasted walnuts and a pinch of sea salt. Finish by garnishing each crostini with freshly diced rosemary for a burst of flavor.
- Serve: Arrange the crostini on a serving platter and enjoy immediately. This recipe yields approximately 20-24 crostini, perfect for a party or gathering.
Notes
- The recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger groups or parties.
- To customize, try substituting different nuts such as pecans or almonds for the walnuts.
- Use fresh rosemary rather than dried for the best aromatic flavor.
- For a less sweet version, reduce the honey drizzle or omit it entirely.
- Make sure to keep an eye on the grapes while roasting to avoid overcooking and drying them out.
