Winter crostini made with creamy goat cheese, cranberry preserves, and pistachios. A simple, elegant appetizer perfect for winter entertaining and last-minute hosting.
Winter Crostini with Goat Cheese, Cranberry & Pistachios
Every winter, there’s always that moment when you realize you need one more appetizer. Friends popping by, small get-togethers, and even impromptu gatherings. I don't want to make something complicated or time-consuming—just a little something that feels special, looks beautiful on a platter, and makes it seem like you planned ahead.
That’s where these winter crostini come in.
It's layered with creamy goat cheese, jewel-toned cranberry preserves, and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. Each bite tastes tangy, sweet, and crunchy and the colors alone just feel perfect for the season—a deep red, soft white, and a pop of green—making them as eye-catching.
Crostini are also one of my favorite hosting shortcuts. Toast the bread, spread, spoon, sprinkle—and suddenly you have an appetizer that works just as well for a cozy winter gathering as it does for a festive evening with friends. They’re simple enough for a last-minute addition, but elegant enough to hold their own on a cheese board or appetizer spread. Another great one to try would be my Plum and Mascarpone Crostini.
Whether you’re hosting a winter get-together, setting out snacks for a special evening, or just want something small and satisfying to share, these winter crostini always fit the moment.
Enjoy!
What Ingredients Do I Need?
- French Baguette - The sturdy base for crostini—sliced and toasted until golden so it holds all the toppings without getting soggy.
- Olive Oil - A light brush adds flavor and helps the bread toast up crisp and golden in the oven.
- Goat Cheese - Creamy, tangy, and easy to spread, goat cheese balances the sweetness of the preserves perfectly.
- Cranberry Cherry Preserves - Adds a sweet-tart pop of flavor and that deep red color that feels just right for winter.
- Pistachios - Chopped pistachios add crunch, a hint of saltiness, and a little texture to finish each bite.
Substitutions and Variations
Substitutions
- Swap the Cheese - Cream cheese, mascarpone, or whipped ricotta all work beautifully if goat cheese isn’t your favorite.
- Change the Preserves - Cranberry orange, cherry, fig, or even raspberry preserves can be used depending on what you have on hand.
- Use a Different Nut - Chopped walnuts, pecans, or sliced almonds are easy alternatives to pistachios.
Variations
- Savory-Sweet Twist - Add a drizzle of honey and a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top just before serving.
- Herb-Forward - Finish with a light sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy winter note.
Kitchen Notes and Tips
- Toast the baguette just until golden—over-toasting can make the crostini too hard to bite into.
- Let the crostini cool slightly before spreading the goat cheese so it doesn’t melt.
- For easier spreading, bring the goat cheese to room temperature first.
- Assemble just before serving for the best texture and presentation.
- These crostini pair well with wine, cocktails, or as part of a larger cheese board spread.
Other Crostini Recipes
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