As I took my first bite of these Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches, a symphony of flavors danced on my palate, and it instantly felt like summer on a plate. The crispy bread provides a perfect canvas for the luscious burrata and sweet peaches, making this appetizer not just delicious, but also a conversation starter at any gathering. Ideal for summer entertaining or festive holiday celebrations, this dish is simple yet impressive, encapsulating the essence of seasonal abundance. Plus, with its quick prep time, you’ll have more time to enjoy your guests and bask in the compliments. Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game and impress your friends with this delightful creation?
Why Love Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
Simplicity, with minimal ingredients and easy prep, ensures anyone, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs, can whip these crostini together quickly. Flavor explosion! The rich burrata paired with juicy peaches and savory prosciutto creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Perfect for gatherings, these bite-sized delights are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at summer parties or holiday feasts. Versatile options allow you to swap out ingredients based on what’s in season or your dietary preferences, like trying Cheesy Garlic Chicken for a hearty twist. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, letting you focus on enjoying your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen!
Cheesy Burrata Crostini Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these delightfully cheesy crostini!
For the Crostini Base
- Sourdough or French baguette – Use as a flavorful base; gluten-free bread works as a substitute if needed.
- Melted butter – Helps with browning; you can use olive oil for a lighter option.
For the Cheese Mixture
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Infuses a savory umami flavor; no direct substitutions, but nutritional yeast can offer a vegan alternative.
- Grated Pecorino cheese – Adds richness; you can swap for more Parmesan for a milder taste.
- Garlic (finely grated) – Enhances overall flavor; garlic powder is a fast substitute.
- Fresh thyme leaves – Introduces herbal notes; dried thyme can be used but with a smaller amount.
For the Toppings
- Prosciutto – Brings a savory punch; crispy bacon is a great alternative, or leave it out for a vegetarian dish.
- Burrata cheese – Creamy indulgence on top; fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used for different textures.
- Ripe peaches (thinly sliced) – Adds sweet juiciness; nectarines or apricots are perfect substitutes when peaches are out of season.
- Hot honey – Provides a sweet and spicy twist; mix regular honey with chili flakes for a homemade version.
- Fresh basil leaves – Garnishes for freshness; arugula can work as a substitute or you can omit it altogether.
Now that you have everything ready, you’re just a few steps away from serving up delicious Cheesy Burrata Crostini!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Burrata Crostini
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper; this will make cleanup a breeze. Visualize your kitchen filled with warmth as you get ready to turn simple ingredients into mouthwatering Cheesy Burrata Crostini.
Step 2: Prepare Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, Pecorino, finely grated garlic, fresh thyme leaves, melted butter, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. This rich cheese blend will be the heart of your crostini, so ensure it’s well combined.
Step 3: Layer Bread
Slice your sourdough or French baguette into about ½-inch pieces. Arrange the bread slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture evenly across each slice, ensuring every bite will be packed with flavor. For an extra touch, lightly brush the bread edges with melted butter.
Step 4: Add Prosciutto
Drape thin slices of prosciutto over the cheesy bread, letting it slightly overlap for added flavor. Make sure that the prosciutto covers most of the cheese mixture to create a delightful balance of salty and creamy flavors on your Cheesy Burrata Crostini. This step enhances the savory profile beautifully.
Step 5: Bake
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on the crostini as they bake; you’re looking for a golden-brown color and bubbling cheese, with the prosciutto crisping up nicely. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible and set the stage for the delicious bites to come.
Step 6: Assemble Crostini
Once baked, remove the crostini from the oven and let them cool slightly. Transfer them to a serving platter and carefully spoon a generous dollop of burrata cheese onto each crostini. Layer thinly sliced fresh peaches atop the burrata, and reintroduce some crispy prosciutto pieces for an eye-catching presentation.
Step 7: Finish with Hot Honey
Just before serving, drizzle hot honey generously over the topped crostini, allowing the sweet and spicy notes to mingle beautifully. This finishing touch elevates your Cheesy Burrata Crostini, adding an enticing glaze and inviting your guests to dig in. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Burrata Crostini are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cheese mixture and slice the bread up to 24 hours in advance, storing each in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, slice your peaches and keep them covered with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. On the day you plan to serve, simply layer the cheese mixture on the bread, add the prosciutto, and bake as instructed. Finish with burrata and a drizzle of hot honey just before serving for that delightful, fresh presentation. This approach not only saves time but ensures you spend more moments enjoying with your guests!
Cheesy Burrata Crostini Variations
Allow your culinary creativity to shine by customizing your Cheesy Burrata Crostini experience with these delightful twists!
- Seasonal Fruit: Swap out peaches for fresh figs or strawberries to match the season and surprise your guests.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your cheese mixture for an extra layer of heat.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or chives instead of thyme for a fragrant burst of flavor.
- Vegan Option: Replace cheese with a mix of nutritional yeast and cashew cream for a vegan-friendly twist while preserving deliciousness.
- Extra Crunch: Top the crostini with toasted nuts like pistachios or walnuts for added texture and flavor complexity.
- Creamy Alternative: Use whipped goat cheese instead of burrata for a tangy and creamy variation that will impress your taste buds.
- Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction to enhance the sweet and savory balance beautifully.
- Loaded Style: Layer some caramelized onions and roasted bell peppers beneath the burrata for a hearty appetizer experience.
If you’re looking for more cheesy inspirations, why not try these Cheesy Garlic Chicken wraps or Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza for a fun, versatile meal? Let your imagination and taste preferences guide you!
Tips for the Best Cheesy Burrata Crostini
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Room Temperature Burrata: Ensure your burrata is at room temperature before serving; it spreads more easily and enhances creaminess.
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Careful Baking: Monitor your baking time closely; overcooking can lead to burnt bread and cheese. Aim for golden-brown perfection!
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Flavorful Cheese Mix: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends; adding a sharp cheese can elevate your Cheesy Burrata Crostini to new heights of flavor.
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Seasonal Swaps: Don’t hesitate to switch out peaches for seasonal fruits like figs or strawberries; they provide delightful variations while keeping the dish fresh.
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Prepare Ahead: Assemble the crostini but wait to add the burrata and hot honey until just before serving, allowing for a quick, effortless presentation that looks stunning!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Burrata Crostini
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, these crostini can be left out for up to 2 hours during gatherings. After that, it’s best to refrigerate any leftovers to maintain quality.
- Fridge: Store any uneaten crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the burrata separate until ready to serve to preserve its creaminess.
- Freezer: While not recommended for best flavor, you can freeze the assembled crostini (without the burrata and peaches) for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To enjoy leftover crostini, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5–10 minutes until warm and crispy. Add the burrata and peaches after reheating for a fresh taste!
What to Serve with Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
Imagine bringing together a medley of delightful flavors and textures that complement each crispy, cheesy bite.
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Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and tang, balancing the richness of the crostini beautifully. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
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Grilled Veggies: Charred zucchini and bell peppers offer a smoky flavor that contrasts with the creamy burrata, creating a well-rounded taste experience. Serve them warm for an inviting touch.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors and keeps the atmosphere light, making every bite of the crostini feel even more refreshing during summer gatherings.
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Charcuterie Board: Create a vibrant charcuterie board with assorted cured meats, olives, and pickles, providing a variety of textures and flavors to enhance the tasting experience alongside your crostini.
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Peach Sorbet: This chilled dessert echoes the flavors of the crostini while offering a refreshing and sweet finish to your meal, perfect for those warm summer evenings.
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Sparkling Water with Mint: Infuse sparkling water with fresh mint and a slice of lemon for a refreshing, non-alcoholic drink that cleanses the palate between bites.
Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
For the best results, I recommend using sourdough or a French baguette as they provide a nice texture and flavor. If you’re gluten-free, a gluten-free bread can make for a delightful substitute without sacrificing taste.
How should I store leftover Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
Store any uneaten crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the burrata creamy, make sure to keep it separate until you’re ready to serve. Just reheat the crostini in the oven to regain that lovely crunch!
Can I freeze Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled crostini (without the burrata and peaches) for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen for about 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until heated through.
What if my peaches are not ripe?
If your peaches aren’t ripe, you can substitute them with nectarines or apricots for a similar sweet flavor. Alternatively, you could try grilling the peaches to enhance their sweetness and provide a lovely char, making them a perfect match for the creamy burrata!
What can I do if my burrata is too firm?
If your burrata is on the firm side, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps it soften and become creamier, making it ideal for spreading onto your crostini. A quick tip: a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of salt can also enhance its flavor when serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the prosciutto. The creamy burrata paired with sweet peaches and a drizzle of hot honey still makes for a delightful appetizer that everyone will enjoy!
Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Sweet Peaches for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine the grated Parmesan, Pecorino, finely grated garlic, fresh thyme, melted butter, and black pepper in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Slice the sourdough or French baguette into ½-inch pieces, arrange them on the baking sheet, and spread the cheese mixture on each slice.
- Drape thin slices of prosciutto over the cheese-covered bread slices.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until golden-brown and bubbly.
- Let the crostini cool slightly, then top with burrata, sliced peaches, and additional prosciutto.
- Drizzle hot honey over the assembled crostini just before serving.
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