If you’re looking for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious, this Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze is destined to become your new go-to. Think of crisp baguette slices topped with creamy, melted Brie, tender caramelized butternut squash, and the finishing touch of a glossy maple drizzle. Each bite is a symphony of sweet, savory, and nutty notes—elevating any holiday table or cozy gathering with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze comes from a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element lends a pop of texture, flavor, or color that makes these two-bite treats totally irresistible.
- Butternut Squash: Diced small, it caramelizes beautifully in the oven, bringing natural sweetness and vibrant color to the crostini.
- Olive Oil: Helps the squash roast to tender perfection and adds richness.
- Maple Syrup: Adds glossy sweetness both in the roasting and as a warm glaze on top; real maple syrup makes all the difference!
- Cinnamon: Infuses the squash with cozy warmth that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch gives a subtle, nutty complexity.
- Salt & Pepper: Don’t skip seasoning—it heightens all the flavors.
- French Baguette: Sliced into rounds; its crisp, sturdy base stands up to the weight of toppings.
- Brie Cheese: Silky and decadent, Brie turns gooey and luscious when gently melted.
- Butter: Brushed on the crostini for golden, irresistible crunch.
- Chopped Toasted Pecans or Walnuts (optional): Adds a delicate shattering crunch and playful nuttiness.
- Fresh Thyme (optional): A sprinkle of herbs gives a pop of earthy green and fresh aroma.
- Extra Maple Syrup (for drizzling): Give every crostini a glossy finish and boost of pure maple flavor.
How to Make Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze
Step 1: Roast the Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss that beautifully diced butternut squash with olive oil, a little maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and roast for about 22 to 25 minutes, stirring once or twice, until golden at the edges and irresistibly tender. This step creates the irresistible heart of Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze: caramelized, sweet-savory bites you’ll want to snack on by the handful.
Step 2: Prepare the Crostini Base
While the squash is roasting, arrange your baguette slices on a second baking sheet. Brush them lightly with melted butter—this is what turns simple bread into shattery, golden crostini! Pop them into the oven for 6 to 8 minutes until they’re just crisp and lightly golden, not overly browned. The perfect base for all those toppings.
Step 3: Melt the Brie
Top each toasted baguette slice with a piece of Brie. Slide the tray back into the oven for 2 to 3 minutes—just long enough for the Brie to soften and become a little oozy, but before it starts to run off the bread.
Step 4: Assemble
Spoon a generous heap of your roasted squash on each Brie-topped crostini. This contrast of creamy cheese and tender, caramelized squash is the secret behind the irresistible Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze. Sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, and a few fresh thyme leaves if you like. Every element adds flavor and flair!
Step 5: Finish with Maple Glaze
Heat a little extra maple syrup in a small saucepan for about 30 seconds—just until it’s warm and pourable. Drizzle the syrup over your assembled crostini right before serving. This glossy finish makes the flavors sing and ensures you get that beautiful sweet-salty combo in every bite.
How to Serve Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze
Garnishes
Give your Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze a flourish by scattering with extra chopped nuts, fresh thyme sprigs, or even a crack of black pepper. For sparkle, you could also add pomegranate arils or microgreens—these tiny touches make the platter look restaurant-worthy and add fresh bursts of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair these crostini with a seasonal salad of arugula, shaved fennel, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A sparkling cider or crisp white wine makes a festive pairing. If you’re hosting a party, line up your crostini alongside a cheese board or soups like butternut squash bisque for a harmonious starter spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dramatic appetizer, pile the crostini high on a rustic wooden board or marble platter, letting the melted Brie and maple glaze shine. Stack them in a spiral, stagger by color, or fill a pretty pedestal cake stand for eye-catching height. If you want extra elegance, serve each crostini on a small plate with a drizzle of additional warm maple syrup tableside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store assembled crostini in an airtight container in the fridge. While they’re best freshly made, the flavors meld beautifully overnight. Just note that the bread may lose a bit of its crunch, but you can revive it with a quick reheat.
Freezing
For best results, freeze the roasted squash separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. The crostini and Brie don’t freeze as well due to changes in texture, so assemble those fresh. This way, you can batch-roast squash ahead for effortless entertaining.
Reheating
To restore any leftover Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze, arrange them on a baking sheet and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes. The Brie will gently melt again, the bread will crisp up, and your kitchen will smell incredible.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Brie?
Absolutely! Camembert is a fantastic sub for Brie, yielding similar creaminess. For something bolder, try goat cheese or blue cheese—the flavors will be different, but equally delicious and worthy of a spot on your serving platter.
How far in advance can I make these crostini?
You can roast the butternut squash and toast your baguette slices up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers. Assemble and warm the Brie on the bread just before serving so everything is at its best.
What’s the best way to peel and dice butternut squash?
Use a sturdy vegetable peeler to remove the tough skin, then slice the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and dice into half-inch cubes. Pre-cut squash from the grocery store is also a great shortcut!
Are there nut-free options for toppings?
Of course—just leave out the nuts, or garnish with pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or toasted sunflower seeds. The crostini will still have wonderful flavor and texture without any allergies to worry about.
Can I serve Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze at room temperature?
Yes, these crostini are tasty warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for parties and potlucks. The Brie won’t be as melty, but the combination of flavors still shines through in every bite.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that looks as good as it tastes, you can’t go wrong with Brie & Butternut Squash Crostini with Maple Glaze. Make a batch for your next gathering and watch your friends swoon! I promise, this recipe will be your secret weapon for making memories—one bite at a time.