Description
The Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Delight Crostini recipe brings a burst of flavor and texture that makes it an ideal appetizer for any gathering. Combining the creamy texture of whipped feta with the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce, this dish is finished with a topping of crispy coconut chips, drizzled honey, and fresh thyme. Its vibrant colors and diverse flavors are sure to delight your guests and make a memorable addition to your party menu.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut chips
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1 French or sourdough baguette, sliced into 6-8 toasts
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/3 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 8 oz block feta cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tbsp honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh thyme and flaky sea salt, to serve
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Chips
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, chili powder, and black pepper. Toss the coconut chips in the mixture and spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, stirring once. Allow to cool on the pan to become crisp.
Step 2: Make the Cranberry Sauce
In a large skillet, combine cranberries, orange juice, red wine, brown sugar, cinnamon, rosemary, and a pinch of salt. Simmer on medium heat for 12-15 minutes until the cranberries break down and the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Whip the Feta
In a food processor, blend the feta cheese, cream cheese, honey, and olive oil until smooth, about 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides as necessary.
Step 4: Toast the Crostini
Switch the oven to broil on high. Brush each slice of baguette with olive oil and broil for 1-2 minutes until golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 5: Assemble the Crostini
Spread the whipped feta on each crostini, drizzle with extra honey, and sprinkle with the crispy coconut. Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and garnish with fresh thyme and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Servings & Preparation Time
Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6-8
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store leftover whipped feta and cranberry sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat crostini in the oven at 350 degrees until warm. Assemble just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
The Honey Whipped Feta and Cranberry Delight Crostini offers a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, complemented by a variety of textures from creamy to crispy. This recipe caters both to the eye and palate, making it an excellent choice for holiday parties, get-togethers, or even a fancy, fun snack at home. Try this easy yet impressive recipe to add a gourmet touch to your appetizer offerings!