These Cheesy Burrata Crostini are a fun and tasty appetizer! Creamy burrata cheese tops crispy bread, creating a delightful mix of flavors with salty prosciutto and sweet peaches.
Honestly, who can resist that gooey cheese and juicy peach combo? It’s like a summer party on a plate! I love serving these at gatherings; they always get gobbled up fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A fresh baguette gives the best crunch. If you can’t find one, any crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough works well.
Burrata Cheese: This cheese is creamy and delicious, but if it’s hard to find, you can use fresh mozzarella or ricotta as alternatives. They’ll give a nice texture too!
Prosciutto: The saltiness of prosciutto complements the sweetness of peaches beautifully. If you’re looking for a substitution, try thinly sliced ham or salami. For a vegetarian option, skip this ingredient!
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal during the summer, but if they’re out of season, you can use nectarines or even canned peaches (drained well) as a substitute.
How Can I Get the Perfect Toast on My Crostini?
Toasting the bread to perfection is key for a great crostini. Here are some easy steps to follow:
- Start with a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). This ensures even toasting.
- Brush olive oil on both sides of the sliced bread. This helps achieve that lovely golden color and crisp texture.
- Place the slices on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece.
- Keep an eye on them while they toast, about 8-10 minutes should be perfect. You want them golden, but not burned!
Let them cool slightly after baking; this keeps them crunchy longer when you add the toppings.
Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Sweet Peaches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 4 oz prosciutto slices
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Honey, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep work and another 8-10 minutes for toasting the bread. Quick, yet fancy enough for your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is where the magic of toasting happens! A warm oven ensures the crostini comes out beautifully golden and crunchy.
2. Prepare the Baguette Slices:
Arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet. Brush each side of the slices lightly with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps them crisp up nicely while baking.
3. Toast the Bread:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and toast the bread for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure they turn golden without burning. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a moment.
4. Add the Delicious Burrata:
Now, take your burrata cheese and tear it into smaller pieces. Spread these cheesy pieces generously over each crostini. The creamy texture will make every bite heavenly!
5. Layer the Prosciutto:
Next, take a slice of prosciutto and drape it over the burrata on each crostini. The salty flavor of the prosciutto pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese.
6. Top with Sweet Peaches:
Add a couple of thin slices of ripe peach on top of the prosciutto. The sweetness of the peaches balances everything out perfectly, making every bite a treat.
7. Garnish to Perfection:
Fresh basil leaves will add a lovely aroma and color. Scatter them over the top of your crostini and sprinkle freshly ground black pepper for an extra touch of flavor.
8. Optional Finishing Touch:
If you want to elevate your crostini further, drizzle a little honey over the top for a sweet finish. It adds a delightful contrast to the other flavors!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Time to dig in! Serve your Cheesy Burrata Crostini right away while they’re fresh and delicious. Enjoy the compliments from your guests!
Can I Use Different Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While a baguette gives the best crunch, you can use any crusty bread like ciabatta, focaccia, or even sourdough. Just adjust the toasting time if the bread is thicker or thinner.
How Should I Store Leftover Crostini?
These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The toppings can be refrigerated for up to 1 day. To enjoy, simply reassemble and lightly toast the bread again!
What Can I Substitute for Burrata Cheese?
If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used as alternatives. While they won’t have the same creamy texture, they will still be delicious with the prosciutto and peaches.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can pre-toast the bread and prepare the toppings in advance. Just assemble the crostini shortly before serving to ensure the bread stays crispy and delicious!