Cheddar and Apple Crostini is a simple yet delightful snack that combines the sharp, creamy taste of cheddar cheese with the sweet, crisp freshness of apple slices on toasted bread. The crunchy texture of the crostini pairs perfectly with the melty cheese and juicy apple, making each bite a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. It’s a treat that feels both fancy and super easy to put together.
I love making these when friends drop by unexpectedly or when I need a quick, satisfying snack. One of my favorite things to do is sprinkle a little cinnamon or drizzle honey over the top for an extra touch of sweetness and warmth. The contrast between the savory cheddar and the fruity apple always surprises people in the best way. Honestly, it’s one of those combos that never gets old in my kitchen.
This crostini works beautifully as an appetizer or light lunch, especially paired with a fresh green salad or a glass of crisp white wine. Whenever I serve them, they disappear fast because everyone loves that crunchy, cheesy, slightly sweet bite. It’s a small but special treat that feels perfect year-round and makes simple ingredients shine.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette or crusty bread: This is the crunchy base that holds all the toppings. Feel free to substitute with sourdough or ciabatta if you want a different texture or flavor. Just slice it around 1/2 inch thick for perfect toasting.
Sharp cheddar cheese: The star flavor here is sharp cheddar, which adds a nice tangy richness. If you prefer a milder taste, try aged cheddar or Gouda. Vegan cheese alternatives work too if you’re avoiding dairy.
Apple: Crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji add sweetness and crunch. Granny Smith apples bring a tart touch that balances the cheddar nicely. Thin slices are key so the apple layers smoothly on the crostini.
Butternut squash or sweet potato mash: This is optional but adds a lovely creamy sweetness and color. You can also use pumpkin puree or carrot mash. To keep it simple, skip this topping if you want a quicker snack.
Fresh thyme: A few leaves add an herby note that lifts the whole crostini. If you don’t have thyme, try sage or rosemary for an earthy twist.
How Can I Get the Crostini Toasted Just Right Without Burning?
Toasting the bread slices is an important step to get the perfect crunch without burning. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot enough to crisp the bread evenly.
- Brush each slice lightly with olive oil. This helps the bread toast to a golden brown and not dry out.
- Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, leaving a bit of space so heat circulates well.
- Toast for 8–10 minutes, checking halfway to flip slices if needed for even color.
- Remove once the edges are golden and crisp but not browned too dark.
This gives a firm base that holds up well under the toppings without getting soggy. If your oven runs hot, reduce time slightly to avoid burning. Starting with a good, sturdy bread also helps make the best crostini.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for toasting bread evenly without crowding the slices.
- Pastry brush – helps you spread olive oil on the bread slices easily for crisp toasting.
- Small skillet or saucepan – great for warming and seasoning the squash or sweet potato mash.
- Sharp knife – essential for slicing the apple thinly and neatly.
- Cutting board – provides a safe and clean surface for chopping and slicing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheddar for goat cheese – it adds a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the apple’s sweetness.
- Add crispy bacon bits – they bring smoky saltiness and extra crunch to the crostini.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans – for a nutty texture and earthy flavor contrast.
- Use fig jam instead of squash mash – adds a rich sweetness that complements the cheddar and apple.
How to Make Cheddar and Apple Crostini?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crostini:
- 1 baguette or crusty bread, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing
For The Topping:
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded or thinly sliced
- 1 medium crisp apple (Honeycrisp or Fuji), thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked butternut squash or sweet potato mash (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or a pinch of smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and toast the bread, plus another 5 minutes to warm the squash topping and bake the assembled crostini. In total, plan for around 20-25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Toast the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out the sliced baguette on a baking sheet and brush each piece lightly with olive oil. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the bread turns golden brown and becomes crisp. Remove from the oven.
2. Prepare the Topping:
If using butternut squash or sweet potato mash, warm it gently in a small pan. Add ground cinnamon or smoked paprika if you like, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and keep warm.
3. Assemble and Bake the Crostini:
Place a thin slice of sharp cheddar cheese on each toasted bread round, then add a thin apple slice on top of the cheese. Spoon a small dollop of the squash mash over the apple. Return the crostini to the oven for 3-5 minutes—just until the cheese softens but does not fully melt.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Take the crostini out of the oven and add a sprig of fresh thyme on top. If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle honey or maple syrup over them. Serve warm or at room temperature as a tasty appetizer or snack.
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash or Sweet Potato Mash?
Yes! Just thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or warm gently in a saucepan before using. Stir well and season before topping your crostini.
What Can I Substitute for Sharp Cheddar?
You can use aged Gouda, Gruyère, or even a tangy goat cheese for a different but delicious flavor. Choose a cheese that melts well and pairs nicely with apples.
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to crisp them back up before serving again.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can toast the bread and prepare the squash mash a day ahead. Assemble and bake the crostini just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
