Crostini appetizers are a must-have for any occasion where you want something easy and impressive. These crisp little toasts can be topped with everything from creamy brie drizzled with honey to savory smoked salmon and herbed cream cheese. They’re quick to prepare, endlessly versatile, and perfect for making sure everyone has a bite they’ll love.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Affiliate, if you purchase through those links, I earn a commission. Thank you!
Crostini appetizers are my go-to for parties because they’re so simple to pull together and look amazing on the table. You can toast the bread and prep the toppings ahead of time, making party day stress-free. Guests love the variety of flavors, and they’re easy to grab and enjoy while mingling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Crostini Appetizers with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
Crostini’s are so easy to make, just follow my steps and you’ll be wowing your guests in no time!
Toast the Baguette Slices
Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Brush both sides of the slices with olive oil for a crisp, golden finish.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until they’re beautifully toasted. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for that irresistible touch of flavor.
Make the Brie Filling
Take your crostini to the next level with warm, gooey brie. Place a half-moon piece of brie on each toasted slice and bake for 10 minutes, just until the cheese softens.
Once out of the oven, drizzle each one with honey, add a sprinkle of toasted nuts, and finish with fresh thyme for a gorgeous presentation and delicious flavor.
Make the Smoked Salmon Filling
Mix the cream cheese, fresh thyme, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture generously over your toasted crostini.
Top each one with a delicate slice of smoked salmon and a few capers for that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to make sure your crostini appetizers turn out perfectly:
- Pick the right bread: Go for a crusty baguette—it crisps up beautifully and holds the toppings without getting soggy.
- Slice evenly: Uniform slices toast evenly, giving you consistent results every time.
- Watch the oven closely: Crostini can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on them while they bake.
- Toast the nuts: A quick toast brings out the flavor and crunch in your nuts—don’t skip this step!
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of smoked salmon and fresh herbs makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Honey timing matters: Drizzle the honey right before serving to keep the crostini from becoming sticky or soggy.
- Serve fresh: These crostini are best served shortly after assembly to keep their crunch and vibrant flavors.
- Customize the toppings: Feel free to mix and match toppings for a personalized twist!
How to Store Leftover Crostini Appetizers
The toasted crostini can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’ve already assembled them with the toppings, they’re best enjoyed immediately.
What to Serve With Crostini Appetizers
Crostini appetizers pair wonderfully with light salads, charcuterie boards, or creamy soups.
For drinks, consider serving them with a crisp white wine or a sparkling cocktail. They’re also a perfect addition to any party spread alongside dips and other bite-sized snacks.
More Easy Appetizer Recipes for You to Try at Home
I’ve got more fun and delicious recipes you can try—perfect for gatherings, parties, or just treating yourself!
Easy Crostini Appetizers
Add Preferred SourceEquipment
Ingredients
- 1 baguette thinly sliced on the bias
- Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
- Flaky sea salt
Brie Filling:
- 1 brie piece cut in half moons
- 4 tablespoons honey
- Toasted Nuts
- Fresh Thyme
Smoked salmon filling:
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons capers
- ½ cup smoked salmon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Slice the baguette thinly on a diagonal and arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheets. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until golden and crispy. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt while warm.1 baguette, Extra-virgin olive oil, Flaky sea salt
For the brie filling:
- Top each crostini with a piece of brie. Return to the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese softens. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted nuts and fresh thyme before serving.1 brie piece, 4 tablespoons honey, Toasted Nuts, Fresh Thyme
For the smoked salmon filling:
- Mix cream cheese, fresh thyme, and garlic powder in a small bowl until smooth. Spread the mixture over the crostini. Top each one with a piece of smoked salmon and a few capers.¼ cup cream cheese, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 tablespoons capers, ½ cup smoked salmon
Notes
- Pick the right bread: Go for a crusty baguette—it crisps up beautifully and holds the toppings without getting soggy.
- Slice evenly: Uniform slices toast evenly, giving you consistent results every time.
- Watch the oven closely: Crostini can go from golden to burnt quickly, so keep an eye on them while they bake.
- Toast the nuts: A quick toast brings out the flavor and crunch in your nuts—don’t skip this step!
- Use fresh ingredients: The quality of smoked salmon and fresh herbs makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Honey timing matters: Drizzle the honey right before serving to keep the crostini from becoming sticky or soggy.
- Serve fresh: These crostini are best served shortly after assembly to keep their crunch and vibrant flavors.
- Customize the toppings: Feel free to mix and match toppings for a personalized twist!
