Who can resist the charm of Crostini? This Crostini recipe is a toasty, garlic flavored bread that’s the perfect base for any topping—each bite is a delightful crunch.
What are Crostini?
Crostini (pronounced “kruh-stee-nee”) literally means “little toasts” in Italian. Crostini are small, thin slices of toasted bread, which are usually brushed with olive oil.
The word also describes canapés consisting of small slices of toast with a savory topping such as cheese, shrimp, pâté, or anchovies. They are perfect served as appetizers with yummy toppings, or alongside soups or salads.
You can top them with whatever ingredients sound delicious, whether sweet or savory. Try some jam, cream cheese and lox, cheese, a chutney, or even Bruschetta. Or try pairing these crispy rounds with one of these tasty soups: Cheesy Cauliflower Soup, Tomato Tortellini Soup, and Homemade Tomato Soup.
Table of Contents
Reasons to Love These Crostini
- The crispy texture adds a delightful contrast to softer toppings.
- Crostinis are versatile and they can be topped with a variety of ingredients.
- They are light and offer a satisfying crunch without being too filling.
Recipe Ingredients
- Garlic Powder: Imparts a warm, slightly spicy flavor that adds depth and a pungent aroma.
- Butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture and a luxurious mouthfeel.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Variations
- Bread Variation: Use Ciabatta for a robust, flavor-absorbent base due to its open texture. French Bread, softer than a baguette, still crisps nicely when toasted. Sourdough introduces a tangy note. Bollos add a subtle sweetness, complementing savory toppings. Olive Loaf infuses Mediterranean tastes with embedded olives. Leftover Dinner Rolls provide a denser, softer alternative, creating a delightful texture contrast.
- Flavor Enhancements: Enhance classic crostini by brushing them with flavored oils such as lemon or garlic before toasting. Add aromatic herbs like basil and a sprinkle of lemon or orange zest before serving for a zesty, fresh twist.
- Crostini Toppings: Try a blend of creamy goat cheese and honey for a sweet touch, or avocado and smoked salmon for a richer flavor. For a tangy twist, top with sun-dried tomatoes and mozzarella, or keep it classic with a mix of prosciutto and fig. Enhance any of these combinations with a sprinkle of sea salt for added savory depth.
How to Make Crostini
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, and garlic powder. Brush the mixture evenly over the tops of the baguette slices.
Step 3: Bake for 10-12 minutes, until lightly golden brown and crisp.
Expert Tips
- Use Parchment Paper: For effortless cleanup and to prevent sticking, line your sheet pan with parchment paper when making crostini. Also, arrange the bread slices in a single layer to ensure they toast evenly and become perfectly crisp.
- Bread Selection: Choose a day-old baguette from the grocery store if possible; its slightly staler texture absorbs the butter and oil mixture better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Crostini pairs wonderfully with a variety of dips. Try classic options like creamy hummus, rich olive tapenade, or a vibrant pesto. For a richer experience, a warm artichoke dip or spinach dip makes a decadent choice.
Serve them with a variety of toppings, such as bruschetta, to make a simple appetizer. Alternatively, dip them in a bowl of soup. Some of our favorites include Cheesy Cauliflower Soup, Potato Corn Chowder, and Broccoli Soup.
Storage Info
You can STORE Homemade Crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To REHEAT, place crostini on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until they are crisp again.
Crostini Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 baguette - sliced into ¼ inch slices
- 1/4 cup butter - melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, and garlic powder. Brush the mixture evenly over the tops of the baguette slices.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until lightly golden brown and crisp.
These are perfect for bruschetta!! The bread is crisp with a hint of delicious flavor from the olive oil & garlic powder!
These little Crostini are perfect to serve with your favorite Italian dish! I love them!
I like to serve crostini with romesco sauce layered over homemade ricotta. Always a hit and I can’t stop eating it!
That sounds delicious!! Thank you!