ROASTED CALIFORNIA GRAPE CROSTINI ~ THE HOLIDAY BITES YOU’LL CRAVE ALL SEASON
If you’re looking for the perfect holiday appetizer….. one that looks fancy, tastes incredible, and takes just minutes to make, this recipe is for you. Roasted California Grape & Blue Cheese Crostini, is a total winner! It’s that irresistible combination of sweet, creamy, and crunchy that makes your guests stop mid-bite and say, “Oh my goodness, what is this?”
When roasted, California grapes become beautifully caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness. That sweetness pairs perfectly with the bold and tangy blue cheese and the mellow creaminess of the cream cheese. Pile it all on top of crispy baguette slices, sprinkle with toasted walnuts, and finish with some thyme and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s pure magic!
INGREDIENTS
2 cups California red grapes, seedless
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Pinch of salt and pepper
1 small French baguette, sliced into 1/2″ rounds
4 ounces blue cheese
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup walnuts, lightly toasted and roughly chopped
Fresh thyme sprigs (or rosemary) for garnish
Optional: a drizzle of balsamic glaze
DIRECTIONS
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the grapes with olive oil, maple syrup, and salt and pepper. Spread evenly and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until they look slightly wrinkled and juicy. Set aside to cool slightly.
While the grapes roast, arrange the baguette slices on another baking sheet. Lightly brush with olive oil. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp. Let cool.
In a small bowl, mash together the blue cheese and cream cheese until smooth and spreadable.
Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Spoon a few roasted grapes (with some of their syrupy juices) on top. Sprinkle with toasted walnuts and a bit of thyme. Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze right before serving.
HOLIDAY RECIPE EVERYONE WILL ASK FOR
I can’t wait to share these at my gatherings. They’re elegant yet so easy to put together. You can prep the grapes ahead of time, toast your bread while the oven’s warm, and assemble everything just before guests arrive. They also make a stunning addition to any cheese board…. but honestly, I could eat these all by themselves for dinner. They’re THAT GOOD!
So, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want something special to enjoy on a cold evening, give these roasted grape crostini bites a try….. your taste buds will thank you!
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