This article will share how to make Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini—an elegant yet simple appetizer for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. We’ll talk about its flavor story, ingredients, preparation steps, serving ideas, and how to style it for festive tables. You’ll also discover tips for using sourdough as a base for holiday hors d’oeuvres and how to make these crostini shine among your other holiday dishes. By the end, you’ll have a go-to Christmas and Thanksgiving snack that’s both beautiful and irresistible.
A Holiday Memory Served on Sourdough
There’s something truly special about the first time I served Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini at a family gathering. It was Thanksgiving evening, the kitchen warm with the richness of roasted turkey and cinnamon-spiced desserts. Amid the festive bustle, the scent of freshly toasted sourdough drifted through the air—a prelude to a new tradition that would soon become a favorite.
When the tray of these golden Bread Hors D’oeuvres came out of the oven, each piece gleaming with melted brie and ruby cranberry sauce, the reactions were instant smiles. We enjoyed these Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini by the fire, a perfect bite to balance the cozy heartiness of the holiday meal. Since then, I’ve made them each year for both Sourdough for Thanksgiving feasts and Christmas Appetizers Sourdough platters, always greeted by the same warmth and delight.
There’s comfort in their simplicity—artisan bread toasted just right, soft cheese at the center, and the pop of cranberry tartness capturing the very taste of the season. Preparing them became a peaceful ritual amid the festive rush: slicing sourdough, arranging brie with care, listening to laughter rising in the background. Even now, every batch feels like an edible memory—crispy, creamy, and just sweet enough to transport me back to that first holiday moment.
Print
Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini for Thanksgiving & Christmas
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
Description
An elegant and simple holiday appetizer featuring toasted sourdough topped with melted brie, tart cranberry sauce, and fresh herbs. Perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush both sides of sourdough slices with olive oil and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Toast sourdough in the oven for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool slightly.
4. Slice brie into thin pieces and place one slice on each toasted bread round.
5. Spoon about 1 teaspoon cranberry sauce over each brie-topped slice.
6. Return crostini to the oven and bake for 4–6 minutes until brie softens and melts.
7. Remove from oven and let cool 2–3 minutes. Drizzle honey if desired.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme, sprinkle with sea salt and cracked pepper, and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: appetizer
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 15
Keywords: cranberry brie sourdough crostini, sourdough appetizer, holiday appetizer, christmas appetizers sourdough, thanksgiving recipes sourdough, bread hors doeuvres, festive crostini
Why Cranberry and Brie Make Magic During the Holidays
At first glance, Cranberry and Brie might seem like an unusual combination, but together they craft the kind of harmony that makes Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini unforgettable. The brie melts into a velvety layer of creaminess, its mild buttery flavor providing the perfect contrast to the sparkle of tart cranberry sauce. When set atop a crisp slice of sourdough, every bite becomes a balance between soft and crunchy, tangy and savory, festive and comforting.
This balance is what brings Sourdough for Thanksgiving spreads and Christmas Appetizers Sourdough boards to life. The buttery richness of brie represents the indulgence of winter gatherings, while the cranberry echoes the bright flavors of traditional holiday sides. Combined on toasted Bread Hors D’oeuvres, they evoke the entire spirit of the season—togetherness, warmth, and that little touch of sparkle that makes holidays so magical.
What makes Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini especially fitting for Thanksgiving Recipes Sourdough collections is their versatility. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, wines, and cheeses, adding a cheerful pop of color to any table. The sourdough acts as both foundation and flavor amplifier, bringing a light tang that balances the sweetness of the cranberry and the creamy melt of the brie. Every ingredient has its role, and every layer feels intentional—uncomplicated yet sophisticated, nostalgic yet new.
Each time I prepare these crostini, I’m reminded that holiday cooking is less about complexity and more about care. It’s about finding joyful combinations—like cranberry and brie—that make us pause between conversations and music to simply savor a bite. That’s why these Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini aren’t just appetizers; they’re tiny celebrations of flavor, perfectly suited for both Thanksgiving and Christmas moments shared with the people who make the holidays bright.
The Simple, Festive Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini doesn’t require complicated ingredients—just a handful of quality foods that embody the flavors of Thanksgiving and Christmas. What makes these Christmas Appetizers Sourdough truly special is the harmony of creamy, tangy, and toasty textures that come from these simple components. Every item contributes to both taste and presentation, allowing each bite to feel festive and balanced.
| Ingredient | Description & Tips | Substitutions / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sourdough Baguette or Artisan Loaf | The foundation of every crostini—crisp on the outside, chewy inside. Its slight tang perfectly complements the brie and cranberry. | Try a gluten-free baguette or rustic whole-grain bread for variation. |
| Brie Cheese | A soft, buttery cheese that melts beautifully, offering creaminess in each bite. | Substitute with Camembert or creamy goat cheese for a tangier flavor. |
| Cranberry Sauce | Adds tart brightness that offsets the brie’s richness. | Fig jam, pomegranate reduction, or raspberry preserves for a sweeter twist. |
| Fresh Thyme or Rosemary | Provides an herbal aroma that ties the crostini into the festive season. | Sage or a pinch of dried herbs can also complement the flavor. |
| Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional) | A light drizzle enhances sweetness and gives a glossy finish. | Skip for a more savory version or use balsamic glaze for depth. |
| Olive Oil or Butter | Brushed on the bread before toasting for a golden, crisp finish. | Melted salted butter adds richness if preferred. |
| Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper | A finishing touch that heightens the flavor balance. | Optional—but adds a sophisticated edge to your Bread Hors D’oeuvres. |
The beauty of Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini lies in its flexibility. Each element can be adjusted to fit your holiday spread, dietary needs, or personal taste. For Sourdough for Thanksgiving, use cranberry-orange sauce to echo the flavors of other dishes. For Christmas Appetizers Sourdough, consider pistachios or pomegranate seeds for jewel-like color and crunch.
Tools and Preparation Setup for Success
Making the perfect Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini begins with a well-prepared kitchen. You don’t need advanced equipment—just basic tools and a short prep routine for stress-free cooking. Whether planning a large Sourdough for Thanksgiving dinner or an intimate Christmas cocktail hour, here’s how to stay organized.
- Serrated Knife: For cleanly slicing through sourdough without crushing its soft interior.
- Cutting Board: Provides stability while slicing bread and cheese.
- Baking Sheet: Used for toasting sourdough slices and melting the brie.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies clean-up.
- Small Saucepan: To warm cranberry sauce or reduce for thicker consistency.
- Pastry Brush: For evenly brushing olive oil or butter on bread slices.
- Serving Platter: For presenting your finished Bread Hors D’oeuvres.
Pre-slice and lightly toast sourdough earlier in the day, slice brie while cold, and warm your cranberry sauce before assembly. Keep garnishes ready in small bowls for quick plating. Organization transforms holiday cooking into a joyful ritual, leaving time to savor the aromas of freshly baked Bread Hors D’oeuvres.
How to Prepare and Assemble Each Layer
Creating Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini is all about texture and timing. Follow these simple steps for perfect Sourdough for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings:
- Slice and Prep the Sourdough: Cut thin, even rounds from a baguette. Brush lightly with olive oil or butter and arrange on a baking sheet.
- Toast the Bread: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are crisp. Cool slightly before topping.
- Slice the Brie: Cut thin wedges from chilled brie. Removing the rind is optional.
- Assemble: Place brie on each toast, spoon cranberry sauce on top, and balance layers evenly.
- Bake: Return to oven for 4–6 minutes until brie softens. Do not overbake.
- Cool Before Serving: Let rest a minute for clean handling and perfect texture.
Each piece emerges as a golden, creamy, ruby-topped delight—Bread Hors D’oeuvres that embody holiday comfort and sparkle.
Finishing Touches & Presentation Ideas for Holiday Serving
Beautiful presentation elevates Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini into the showpiece of your Christmas Appetizers Sourdough board or Thanksgiving Recipes Sourdough spread.
- Plate with Holiday Flair: Arrange in neat circles or rows on a large wooden board. Add a bowl of extra cranberry sauce in the center.
- Garnish for Color: Top with thyme sprigs, chopped pistachios, or a drizzle of honey for shine and contrast.
- Pair Smartly: Serve with sparkling rosé, Pinot Noir, or cider; combine with cured meats and roasted nuts on your boards.
- Layer for Display: Use tiered trays accented with cranberries or festive greens.
- Keep Practical: Toast and store bases separately, then warm and assemble just before serving.
Their golden crusts, creamy centers, and crimson toppings light up every platter. Each bite tells a story of cozy kitchens, laughter, and effortless elegance—a reminder that simple, intentional ingredients create lasting holiday impressions.
Holiday Hosting Tips for Buttery Brie Crostini
Hosting during the holidays should feel joyful—not stressful—and Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini make entertaining easy. These bites can be prepped ahead and reheated with minimal effort while staying beautiful on your Christmas Appetizers Sourdough board or Thanksgiving Recipes Sourdough table.
- Prep Early: Toast bread and slice brie a day ahead; refrigerate until ready.
- Keep Crisp: Add toppings at the last minute to avoid sogginess.
- Reheat Properly: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for five minutes—never microwave.
- Serve with Variety: Pair with prosciutto, grapes, nuts, or spiced pears for balanced platters.
- Style the Presentation: Display on wooden boards lined with rosemary or thyme sprigs.
With make-ahead ease and eye-catching presentation, Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini deliver warmth and grace to every holiday celebration—small bites that taste like joy itself.
FAQ + Conclusion
Can I make Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini ahead of time?
Yes. Toast and slice components ahead; assemble just before serving for crispness.
How do I keep sourdough crostini from getting soggy?
Assemble last minute, drain excess liquid from sauce, and rewarm quickly before serving.
What kind of cranberry sauce works best?
A tart, chunky sauce balances creamy brie beautifully. Add orange zest or cinnamon for extra flavor.
Can I replace brie with another cheese?
Camembert or triple-cream goat cheese substitutes perfectly; sharp white cheddar adds a bold twist.
What wine pairs well with cranberry and brie?
Sparkling rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Noir highlight the sweet-tart notes, while cider suits non-alcoholic pairings.
Cranberry Brie Sourdough Crostini capture everything to love about the holidays—sharing joy, savoring creamy textures, and celebrating vibrant seasonal colors. Crisp, creamy, and bright, they represent the harmony that Thanksgiving Recipes Sourdough and Christmas Appetizers Sourdough recipes strive for: simple craft elevated beautifully.
Golden bread, soft brie, and tangy cranberry unite into unforgettable bites—little edible gifts for family and friends. As you set your festive table, make these Bread Hors D’oeuvres the stars. Share them, personalize them, and let each bite remind you that the holidays taste best when gathered together.
