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Close-up of balsamic cherry and goat cheese crostini on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh basil.
Alyssa

Balsamic Cherry and Goat Cheese Crostini

A delicious blend of fresh cherries, creamy goat cheese, and crispy baguette, drizzled with balsamic vinegar for a tasty appetizer.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fresh cherries pitted and roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
  • 4 tablespoons fresh basil cut into thin ribbons, divided
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (plain) or creamy goat cheese
  • kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • extra virgin olive oil

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, honey, vinegar, 2 tablespoons of the basil, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are just starting to release their juice. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Meanwhile, arrange bread slices on a sheet pan. Brush lightly with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and bake for 10 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
  4. To assemble the crostini, spread a layer of goat cheese onto each slice, then top with a spoonful of cherries. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of basil over the crostini and serve immediately.
  5. Note: While you can make the cherry mixture in advance, the longer it sits, the more the cherries lose their bright red color. I would recommend making them right before serving.

Notes

These crostini are best served fresh and warm, with a vibrant cherry topping.