Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I watched the first snowflakes of the season dance through the air, I felt a familiar excitement brewing in my kitchen. The holidays are all about sharing joy, and nothing brings folks together like a delightful appetizer. Enter my Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini, a festive, eye-catching treat that combines creamy richness with the zing of tart cranberries—perfect for elevating any gathering! This quick and simple recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those bustling holiday celebrations. Plus, with a gluten-free option available, everyone can indulge in this delicious bite. Who could resist such a beautiful creation? Ready to impress your guests while keeping your stress in check? Let’s dive into this seasonal delight! Why Choose Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini? Bright, Festive Appeal: The vibrant colors of cranberry sauce on crispy crostini make this appetizer a showstopper on any holiday table. Quick to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip these up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy the festivities. Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy them as-is or swap the cranberry for other flavors like mango for a unique twist. Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to delight, making it a perfect addition to any gathering, especially when paired with other appetizers like Cranberry Turkey Grilled Cheese. Gluten-Free Option: Easily adaptable using rice cakes ensures everyone can indulge without compromise! Balanced Textures: The crunchy crostini paired with creamy cheese and zesty cranberry sauce creates an irresistible bite, making every mouthful a festive joy. Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini Ingredients For the Cranberry Sauce Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Provides the tartness and natural sweetness; store-bought cranberry sauce works in a pinch if you’re short on time. Brown Sugar – Balances the tart cranberries; feel free to adjust for your preferred level of sweetness. Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the sauce; omit if you’re not a fan of spices. Water – A necessary component for cooking down cranberries into a luscious sauce; no substitutes required. For the Crostini Base Baguette – Supplies the crunch you need; swap for gluten-free rice cakes to cater to dietary preferences. Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and crispiness; you can use another oil if desired. For the Creamy Topping Cream Cheese – Adds that rich, creamy texture; try a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan option. Honey – Drizzled atop for a touch of sweetness; maple syrup is a delightful substitute! Fresh Thyme – Imparts herbal freshness; rosemary can be used instead, or simply omit if preferred. Pinch of Salt – For enhancing the overall flavor; adjust according to your taste. Feel inspired to create a holiday masterpiece with your Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet Begin by preheating your oven to 360°F (180°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup. This preparation will allow your Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini to bake evenly, providing a crisp base for the delightful toppings that follow. Step 2: Slice and Toast the Baguette Thinly slice the baguette diagonally into about ½-inch thick slices. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil to enhance its flavor and crispness. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 6-8 minutes, until they turn a light golden brown. Once done, remove them from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the cranberry sauce. Step 3: Make the Cranberry Sauce In a medium saucepan, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, brown sugar, and water. Optionally, add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens to a syrupy consistency. Allow the sauce to cool before assembling your crostini. Step 4: Spread the Cream Cheese Once the crostini have cooled, take your softened cream cheese and generously spread it over each toasted slice. This creamy layer acts as a perfect base for your toppings, uniting the flavors of the Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini. Ensure the cream cheese is spread evenly for a delightful bite every time. Step 5: Assemble the Crostini Top each cream cheese-covered crostini with a spoonful of the cooled cranberry sauce. Make sure to add enough to create a colorful layer that showcases the festive spirit of this holiday appetizer. The vibrant cranberry sauce will not only enhance the flavor but also create a visually appealing dish sure to impress guests. Step 6: Add Finishing Touches Next, drizzle a bit of honey over each topped crostini for a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top for an added burst of flavor and a pop of color. If desired, finish with a pinch of salt to elevate the overall taste of your Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Arrange your beautiful Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini on a festive platter, ready for your guests to enjoy. These appetizers are perfect as a standalone snack or part of a larger holiday spread. Ideal for entertaining, the combination of textures and flavors will surely be a highlight of any gathering. How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini Fridge: Store leftover crostini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain crispness, keep the toppings separate until ready to serve. Freezer: You can freeze toasted crostini slices (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Reheating: If you’ve already assembled your Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini, reheat them in a warm oven, covered with foil, for about 10 minutes at 300°F (150°C) to enjoy them warm. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the cranberry sauce ahead of time, refrigerate it for up to 2 days, and assemble crostini just before your gathering for that fresh crunch! Make Ahead Options These Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cranberry sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The crostini slices can be made up to 24 hours ahead and kept in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, spread the cream cheese over the cooled crostini and top with the prepped cranberry sauce, drizzle with honey, and sprinkle with thyme just before placing them on your festive platter. This approach ensures they remain deliciously crisp and appealing, making your holiday entertaining a breeze! What to Serve with Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini? Elevate your holiday gathering with complementary dishes that enhance the festive flavors of your crostini. Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie and aged cheddar adds richness, creating a delightful contrast to the tartness of the cranberry sauce. Roasted Vegetable Medley: Caramelized Brussels sprouts and root vegetables bring a warm, earthy note to your meal, balancing the bright flavors of the crostini perfectly. Spiced Mulled Wine: Infused with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus, this warming drink enhances the holiday spirit and pairs seamlessly with the sweet-tart crostini. Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint, cleansing your palate between bites of rich cream cheese. Stuffed Mushroom Caps: Savory stuffed mushrooms add a bite-sized goodness and earthy flavors that work harmoniously alongside the festive crostini. Mini Meatballs in Cranberry Sauce: Juicy meatballs glazed with cranberry sauce echo the crostini, creating a cohesive and inviting flavor profile throughout your gathering. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For dessert, these provide a sweet touch that rounds out the meal, finishing with a delightful contrast to the savory appetizers. Peppermint Chocolate Bark: Crunchy and sweet, this festive treat adds a holiday flair, delighting your guests with a satisfying finish. Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini Sauce Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preferences, as cranberries can be quite tart, ensuring a balanced flavor in your Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini. Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier spreading; chilling can make it tough and difficult to work with. Visual Appeal: For a stunning presentation, garnish with extra fresh thyme or a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley, elevating your holiday appetizer’s look. Gluten-Free Substitution: If opting for gluten-free, use rice cakes instead of baguette slices but ensure they’re crispy for that satisfying crunch. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the cranberry sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, freeing you up to assemble the crostini just before serving. Flavor Variations: Try swapping out the cranberry sauce with alternative toppings like mango or cherry compote for a unique twist on flavor! Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini Variations Feel free to explore these creative twists on the classic Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini and make it your own! Herbed Cream Cheese: Blend in fresh herbs like chives or basil into the cream cheese for extra flavor. The fresh herbs will elevate this elegant appetizer to a new height. Sweetness Adjustments: Experiment with less brown sugar for a tarter cranberry sauce or even add a hint of orange zest to brighten the flavors. Balancing sweetness and tartness can lead to delicious discoveries! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce for a touch of heat. This unexpected twist will warm up your holiday gathering with just the right amount of spice! Alternative Fruits: Swap cranberry sauce for an easy homemade mango or blueberry sauce. These fruity alternatives will provide a refreshing contrast that’s equally delightful! Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans over the assembled crostini to add texture and an earthy flavor. The crunch will enhance the overall experience with every bite. Caramelized Onions: Sauté onions until golden brown and spread them over the cream cheese before adding cranberry sauce for a beautiful, savory twist. This adds depth and a unique flavor profile to your crostini! Festive Garnish: Top with pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and sweetness. Not only will they elevate the dish, but they also add a burst of juicy flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese beautifully. Savory Alternatives: Try creamy goat cheese instead of cream cheese for a tangy kick. This swap will certainly appeal to adventurous palates, making your crostini even more memorable this holiday season! With these variations in mind, share the joy of creating your own festive masterpiece this holiday season! Remember, the heart of cooking lies in sharing that delicious joy with others—think of it as a way of gathering friends around the warmth of your kitchen! Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini Recipe FAQs What type of cranberries should I use? You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for the sauce. Fresh cranberries are ideal, or you can choose frozen for convenience. If you’re in a pinch for time, store-bought cranberry sauce works wonderfully too! How should I store leftover crostini? Store leftover Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crostini crispy, I recommend storing the topping and the crostini separately and assembling them just before serving. Can I freeze the crostini? Absolutely! You can freeze the toasted crostini slices (without the toppings) for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy again. What if my cranberry sauce is too tart? If your cranberry sauce turns out too tart for your liking, simply add a little more brown sugar to taste. Start with a teaspoon and mix it in while the sauce is still warm to ensure it dissolves smoothly. You can also add a dash of honey for extra sweetness. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes! To make your Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini gluten-free, simply substitute the baguette with crispy rice cakes. This change allows everyone to enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising their dietary needs. How can I prepare the cranberry sauce in advance? You can prepare the cranberry sauce up to 2 days ahead of your gathering. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble, just spread the cream cheese on the crostini and top with the chilled sauce for a fresh, delightful appetizer. Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini That Steals the Show Christmas Cranberry Cream Cheese Crostini offers a festive blend of creamy cheese and tart cranberries, making it an eye-catching appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 12 crostiniCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cranberry Sauce12 ounces Fresh or Frozen Cranberries Store-bought cranberry sauce works in a pinch.1 cup Brown Sugar Adjust according to sweetness preference.1 teaspoon Cinnamon Omit if preferred.1 cup WaterFor the Crostini Base1 loaf Baguette Substitute with rice cakes for gluten-free.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use another oil if desired.For the Creamy Topping8 ounces Cream Cheese Dairy-free alternative for vegan option.2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup can be substituted.1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Omit or substitute with rosemary if preferred.1 pinch Salt Adjust to taste. Equipment Ovenmedium saucepanbaking sheetParchment paper Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 360°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Thinly slice the baguette diagonally into about ½-inch thick slices. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and arrange on the baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes until light golden brown.In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, brown sugar, and water. Optionally add cinnamon. Bring to boil; then simmer for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens. Cool before assembling crostini.Spread softened cream cheese over each toasted slice evenly.Top each with cooled cranberry sauce, making sure to showcase the festive spirit.Drizzle honey over each crostini and sprinkle fresh thyme leaves. Add a pinch of salt to taste.Arrange crostini on a platter to serve. Nutrition Serving: 1crostiniCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor best results, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easy spreading. Prepare cranberry sauce up to 2 days in advance for convenience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
