Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini Recipe
If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s as easy as it is elegant, Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini is about to become your new go-to. Creamy, tangy feta meets silky cream cheese, all whipped together with a touch of honey for irresistible sweetness, then topped with tart cranberry sauce, crunchy toasted nuts, and a flurry of fresh herbs. Every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures, making this crostini a star at holiday gatherings, brunches, or any time you want to impress friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini is how each ingredient brings something special to the party. From the crisp baguette to the sweet-tart cranberry sauce, every component adds a new layer of taste, crunch, or creaminess you’ll love.
- Baguette: Sliced into half-inch rounds for the perfect crunchy base that holds all the toppings beautifully.
- Olive oil: Brushed on the bread to help it toast up golden and add a subtle richness.
- Feta cheese: Softened for easy blending; it brings a tangy, salty punch that balances the sweetness.
- Cream cheese: Softened to make the whipped feta extra creamy and smooth.
- Honey: Mixed in and drizzled over for just the right touch of natural sweetness.
- Cranberry sauce: Homemade or canned, it adds a burst of tart, jewel-like color and festive flavor.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: Toasted for crunch and a nutty depth that elevates every bite.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme: Chopped for a pop of herby freshness and elegant aroma.
How to Make Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini
Step 1: Toast the Baguette
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and brush each piece lightly with olive oil. Slide them into the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, just until they’re golden and crisp on the edges but still tender in the center. Let them cool a bit while you prep the toppings.
Step 2: Whip the Feta Mixture
In a food processor, combine your softened feta, cream cheese, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. You’re looking for a spread that’s airy and luscious, with no lumps—don’t rush this part! The honey gives the cheese a subtle, floral sweetness that’s simply addictive.
Step 3: Assemble the Crostini
Once your baguette slices are cool enough to handle, spread a generous spoonful of the honey whipped feta mixture onto each one. Top each with a dollop of cranberry sauce, letting it nestle into the creamy cheese. Sprinkle with your toasted nuts and shower with chopped fresh herbs for that pop of color and fragrance.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Just before serving, drizzle the assembled crostini with a little extra honey. This final flourish gives them a beautiful glossy finish and ensures every bite is perfectly balanced between sweet, tangy, and savory. Arrange them on a platter and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini
Garnishes
For a truly stunning presentation, add a few extra touches to your Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini. Try a scatter of pomegranate seeds for a festive sparkle, a dusting of finely grated orange zest, or even edible flowers if you’re feeling fancy. These little extras make your platter pop and add extra bursts of flavor.
Side Dishes
Set out your crostini alongside a vibrant winter salad, a bowl of marinated olives, or a platter of roasted vegetables. Light, fresh sides let the rich whipped feta and tart cranberries shine while giving your guests plenty of options for mixing and matching flavors at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Serve Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini on a rustic wooden board for a cozy vibe, or arrange them in neat rows on a sleek white platter for a modern look. You can also make mini versions using sliced baguette coins for bite-sized party snacks, or even offer a DIY crostini bar so guests can build their own perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini, store the whipped feta and cranberry sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the toasted crostini at room temperature in a sealed bag to maintain their crunch, and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Freezing
While you can freeze the whipped feta mixture (store it in a freezer-safe container for up to one month), it’s best not to freeze assembled crostini, as the bread becomes soggy. Thaw the cheese mixture overnight in the fridge, then stir until smooth before using.
Reheating
To refresh any leftover crostini, simply pop the bread slices back in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore their crunch. The whipped feta and cranberry sauce are best served at room temperature, so let them sit out for 20 minutes before assembling and serving.
FAQs
Can I use goat cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! Goat cheese will give the spread a slightly tangier, earthier flavor. Just be sure to blend it well with the cream cheese and honey until ultra-smooth.
Is it possible to make these crostini gluten free?
Yes! Swap the baguette for your favorite gluten-free bread or crackers. Just make sure to toast them well for that satisfying crunch.
What kind of cranberry sauce works best?
You can use either homemade or high-quality store-bought cranberry sauce. If using canned, look for whole berry for more texture, or jazz it up with orange zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
Can I prepare Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini in advance?
The whipped feta can be made up to two days ahead and stored in the fridge. Assemble the crostini right before serving for the best texture and freshness.
What nuts can I substitute for walnuts or pecans?
Try pistachios, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a fun twist. Toasting the nuts beforehand brings out their flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch.
Final Thoughts
This recipe for Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini is pure magic in every bite: creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy all at once. Give it a try at your next gathering, and don’t be surprised when these little beauties vanish in minutes—you just might find yourself making a second batch!
Print
Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Crostini Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 crostini 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and festive appetizer featuring crispy baguette slices topped with creamy honey whipped feta, tangy cranberry sauce, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs, perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Whipped Feta Mixture
- 8 ounces feta cheese, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling
Toppings
- 1 cup cranberry sauce, homemade or canned
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Prepare Whipped Feta Mixture: In a food processor, combine feta cheese, cream cheese, and 2 tablespoons honey. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure uniform texture.
- Assemble Crostini: Spread a spoonful of the whipped feta mixture onto each toasted crostini. Top with a dollop of cranberry sauce, then sprinkle with toasted nuts and fresh herbs.
- Final Touch: Drizzle each crostini with extra honey just before serving to add a perfect touch of sweetness and shine.
Notes
- Prepare the whipped feta mixture up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator.
- Assemble crostini just before serving to keep the bread crisp.
- For a festive presentation, add fresh pomegranate seeds along with the cranberries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking, Assembling
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
