The perfect balance of flavors and textures, these Baked Brie Crostini bring together the saltiness of crispy prosciutto, the richness of brie, the sweetness of fig jam, and the freshness of herbs — all layered on a crunchy piece of toasted bread. It’s a luxurious yet fuss-free appetizer that tastes like something you’d find at a wine bar. Perfect for Mother’s Day, brunch with friends, or as a pre-dinner bite, this dish checks every box. It’s elegant, satisfying, and looks absolutely beautiful on a platter. You can grill the bread in summer or toast it in the oven for a cozy, comforting option. Serve with a glass of rosé or prosecco for the ultimate pairing.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 loaf of ciabatta or French baguette, sliced
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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1/2 cup fig preserves or fig jam
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8 slices prosciutto
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8 ounces creamy brie cheese, sliced
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1 tablespoon honey
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Fresh thyme or basil leaves, for garnish
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Flaky sea salt, to taste
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place the prosciutto slices on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until crispy. Remove and set aside.
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Arrange the bread slices on another baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 5 minutes, until slightly crisp.
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Remove the bread and spread each slice with fig preserves. Top with a slice of crispy prosciutto and a slice of brie.
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Return to the oven and bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the brie is melted and bubbly.
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Serve warm, drizzled with honey and garnished with fresh thyme or basil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 278 kcal | Servings: 8
Why Baked Brie Crostini Deserves a Spot in Every Kitchen
There’s something undeniably luxurious about a well-made crostini. The crisp edges of toasted bread, the creamy richness of melted cheese, the burst of sweet or savory toppings—each bite is a perfectly balanced flavor bomb. But when you bring together buttery brie, crispy prosciutto, sweet fig jam, and a drizzle of golden honey, magic happens. This isn’t just an appetizer. It’s an experience.
A Little History: The Roots of Crostini and Brie
Crostini, the Italian word for “little toasts”, has a long culinary lineage rooted in traditional Tuscan cuisine. In Italy, leftover or stale bread is repurposed into crostini—sliced thin, toasted, and topped with a variety of spreads and ingredients. It’s a humble concept, born from resourcefulness, but over time, it evolved into a staple at wine bars and dinner parties across the globe.
Brie, on the other hand, hails from France and is known as “The Queen of Cheeses”. It’s soft, creamy, and mild in flavor, with a delicate white rind. When warmed or baked, it becomes luscious and gooey, perfect for spreading or layering on toast. Pairing brie with something sweet, like fruit preserves or honey, is a classic culinary move that enhances its richness and complements its buttery flavor.
The Art of Sweet & Savory Harmony
The magic of this recipe lies in its ability to balance flavors and textures so perfectly. Here’s how each element contributes:
- Brie: The creamy base of the dish. When baked, it melts into a velvety layer that oozes decadence.
- Fig Jam: Adds a touch of sweetness and a chewy texture. The natural fruitiness of fig enhances the brie’s richness.
- Crispy Prosciutto: Salty and crunchy, this adds contrast in both flavor and texture, creating depth.
- Ciabatta or Baguette: Crusty, chewy, and perfect for holding all that goodness without becoming soggy.
- Honey & Herbs: A finishing drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of thyme or basil brighten everything up with freshness and a touch of earthy sweetness.
What Makes This Appetizer a Showstopper?
Here are some solid reasons why this Baked Brie Crostini recipe isn’t just good—it’s next-level great:
1. It’s Visually Stunning
This dish looks as good as it tastes. The golden edges of toasted bread, the melted brie peeking out from under crispy prosciutto, and the delicate glisten of honey on top—it’s the kind of plate that stops people mid-scroll on Instagram.
2. It Feels Gourmet (But Is So Easy!)
Despite its luxurious appearance, this crostini takes less than 30 minutes from prep to table. No complicated ingredients, no special techniques—just a handful of quality items assembled with intention.
3. Versatile for Any Occasion
Brunch, cocktail hour, bridal shower, holiday party, or just a cozy night in with a glass of wine—this recipe fits every setting. It’s casual enough for family but elevated enough to impress your fanciest friends.
4. Pairs Beautifully with Wine
The balance of creamy brie, salty prosciutto, and sweet fig jam pairs effortlessly with wines like Pinot Noir, Prosecco, or Chardonnay. It’s practically made for wine night.
5. Customizable for Dietary Needs
Need a vegetarian version? Skip the prosciutto and add roasted nuts or caramelized onions. Looking for gluten-free? Just swap the bread for a GF option. This recipe is flexible and adaptable.
Ingredient Breakdown: Choosing the Best
Because this recipe relies on just a few ingredients, quality is key.
- Brie: Opt for a triple-cream brie if you want an ultra-luxurious feel. The higher the fat content, the better the melt.
- Prosciutto: Look for thin, quality slices from the deli—imported Italian prosciutto is ideal.
- Fig Jam: Homemade is always lovely, but a good store-bought jam with minimal added sugar will work great too.
- Bread: Ciabatta is a favorite for its chewy interior and crispy crust, but a classic French baguette works beautifully as well.
- Olive Oil: Use a fruity extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and brushing the bread—its flavor will shine through.
- Honey & Herbs: Go with raw honey and fresh thyme or basil. These are your final flourishes and should be bright and flavorful.
How to Serve and Present
Presentation goes a long way, especially for appetizers. Here are some serving tips:
- Platter Style: Arrange crostini on a large wooden board or ceramic platter with fresh herbs tucked in for garnish.
- Drizzle Just Before Serving: Add honey and herbs right before placing the platter on the table. This keeps everything vibrant and prevents sogginess.
- Wine Pairing: Offer a recommended wine pairing nearby or place small cards beside the dish for a fun and informative touch.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best parts about this recipe? It’s great for hosts who like to prep ahead:
- Prosciutto: Can be crisped up a few hours in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Bread: Slice and pre-toast the bread earlier in the day. Just reheat for a minute in the oven before assembling.
- Assembly: You can pre-layer the jam, prosciutto, and cheese and refrigerate. Pop into the oven right before serving.
Health Benefits (Yes, Really!)
While it’s definitely an indulgent treat, this appetizer also brings a few surprising benefits:
- Brie contains calcium, vitamin B12, and protein.
- Fig jam offers natural sugars, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Prosciutto is high in protein and lower in fat than many other cured meats.
- Olive oil and fresh herbs bring heart-healthy fats and micronutrients.
In moderation, this crostini isn’t just delicious—it offers a little nourishment with each bite, too.
Common Questions & Quick Fixes
Q: Can I make this without an oven?
A: Yes! If you have a toaster oven or air fryer, those work just as well. For summer parties, you can grill the bread and brie outdoors for a smoky flavor.
Q: What if I don’t like fig jam?
A: Try apricot, peach, or even a spicy jalapeño jam. The contrast with the brie still works beautifully.
Q: Can I use another cheese?
A: Camembert, goat cheese, or even blue cheese are great alternatives. Just adjust baking time accordingly.
Q: How can I keep the crostini from getting soggy?
A: Lightly toast the bread first, and don’t overdo the jam. Assemble right before serving to maintain texture.
Conclusion
The Baked Brie Crostini with Crispy Prosciutto and Fig Jam is more than a recipe—it’s a statement. It’s that one dish your guests will ask for again and again. The balance of elegance and simplicity makes it timeless. And it’s proof that with just a few well-chosen ingredients, you can create something truly memorable. So whether you’re planning a chic Mother’s Day brunch, hosting wine night, or just indulging in some self-care snacks—this crostini deserves a place at your table.