Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini

Name: Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; 8 oz goat cheese, softened; 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

I absolutely love making Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini, especially for gatherings with family and friends. The combination of creamy goat cheese and fresh herbs creates a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with a crispy crostini base. I often experiment with different herbs and add-ons to customize the topping, which keeps it exciting every time I serve it. Plus, these crostinis come together quickly, making them an ideal appetizer that never fails to impress. They’re sure to be a hit at your next event!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:25:27.591Z

When I first came across the idea of Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini, I was intrigued by the simplicity of its ingredients. I decided to try incorporating fresh basil and a hint of garlic into the goat cheese, and the results blew me away. My friends couldn't get enough, and I quickly learned that using a mix of herbs elevates the flavor to new heights.

One particular evening, I hosted a small gathering and paired these crostinis with a light white wine. The creamy texture of the goat cheese combined with the crunch of the bread made for a delightful contrast. I realized that not only is this dish easy to prepare, it’s also a versatile canvas for creativity!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy goat cheese infused with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor
Crispy crostini that provides the perfect crunch
Quick and easy to make, ideal for entertaining

Perfecting the Crostini

The crostini serves as the base for your Herbed Goat Cheese, and getting them just right is key. Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is essential for achieving that perfect crispiness. After slicing your baguette, aim for 1/2-inch thick rounds; thinner could burn, while thicker may not toast properly. Bake them until they are light golden, about 10 minutes, and keep an eye on them as baking times may vary based on the oven. This golden hue indicates they are ready and will provide the perfect crunch against the creamy topping.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider brushing the crostini with flavored olive oil, such as garlic-infused or herb-infused oil. This little addition not only adds taste but also enhances the color. For variety, you could also try sprinkling a pinch of sea salt or cracked black pepper on top of the crostini before baking. This elevates the overall flavor and adds a finishing touch that pairs wonderfully with the goat cheese topping.

Crafting the Herb Goat Cheese Spread

When mixing the herb goat cheese spread, using softened goat cheese is crucial for a smooth texture. Ensure it’s at room temperature to achieve a creamy consistency, making it easier to spread on the crostini. If you're finding your mixture is too stiff at any point, you can add a splash of olive oil or a teaspoon of yogurt to loosen it up without sacrificing flavor. This added moisture brings a delicious creaminess that complements the herbs beautifully.

The choice of fresh herbs is vital, as they significantly influence the flavor. While basil and parsley are classic choices, feel free to experiment with thyme or chives for a refreshing twist. If you're making this in advance, the flavors actually develop and deepen as the mixture sits; preparing it a few hours before serving can enhance the overall taste experience. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before spreading to ensure easy application.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
8 oz goat cheese, softened
1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you're just minutes away from a delightful appetizer!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini:

Prepare the Crostini

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the crostini are golden and crispy.

Make the Herb Mixture

In a bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped basil, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

Assemble the Crostini

Once the crostini are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spread a generous amount of the herb goat cheese mixture onto each crostini.

Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the crostini on a serving platter. For an extra touch, you can drizzle some olive oil on top before serving. Enjoy with friends or as a delicious snack!

Serve your crostini warm for the best flavor experience!

Pro Tips

Try adding different herbs like thyme or dill for variation. You can also top your crostini with sun-dried tomatoes or olives for added flair.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’d like to prepare in advance, the herb goat cheese mixture can be made and stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep in mind that the crostini should be assembled just before serving to maintain their crispiness. If you have leftovers, the crostini can be stored in a sealed bag at room temperature, but they’re best enjoyed fresh to maintain that delightful crunch.

When storing the crostini, avoid layering them on top of each other as they may lose their crispness. If you have some left after the gathering, you can re-crisp them by placing them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, and they'll regain their delightful texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini can be dressed up in various ways. For an extra gourmet touch, consider drizzling a balsamic glaze on top or adding a slice of roasted red pepper or a few pieces of caramelized onion on each crostini before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also infuses different layers of flavor that compliment the creamy goat cheese beautifully.

You can also make a heartier version by adding toppings such as smoked salmon or prosciutto after spreading the herb cheese. This will transform your appetizer into a more substantial offering, perfect for larger gatherings. Experimenting with textures by adding toasted nuts or seeds on top will also create varying crunch levels and an interesting visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the goat cheese mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the goat cheese mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature before spreading.

→ What other toppings can I add to the crostini?

Feel free to get creative! Roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, or even a drizzle of honey can complement the goat cheese beautifully.

→ How should I store leftover crostini?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To retain crispiness, it’s best to keep the cheese mixture and crostini separate until ready to eat.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese, ricotta, or even a soft blue cheese can work well in this recipe, depending on your taste preferences.