Apple & Brie Crostini with Hot Honey

Why You’ll Love Apple & Brie Crostini with Hot Honey

These crostini strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy brie melts beautifully over crisp toasted bread, while the apple adds freshness and crunch. Prosciutto brings a savory depth, and the arugula adds a subtle peppery bite. The hot honey ties everything together with a touch of sweetness and gentle heat.

They’re also:

• Quick and easy to prepare

• Made with simple, fresh ingredients

• Perfect for fall and holiday entertaining

• Easy to customize

• Beautiful and impressive on a serving platter

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or bringing an appetizer to a gathering, these crostini are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

French baguette, sliced into rounds
Brie cheese, sliced
Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apple, thinly sliced
Prosciutto, torn into small pieces
Fresh arugula
Honey
Hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the baguette slices in a single layer. Use two baking sheets if needed.

Top each slice of bread with a piece of brie cheese.

Bake for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the brie is melted and the edges of the bread are lightly golden.

Remove from the oven and immediately top each crostini with a thin slice of apple, a piece of prosciutto, and a small handful of arugula.

In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey for about 10–15 seconds. Stir in a small amount of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper until you reach your desired spice level.

Drizzle the warm hot honey over the assembled crostini. Serve immediately while the cheese is still warm and melty.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 to 8 people as an appetizer (approximately 20–24 crostini, depending on baguette size)
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes

Variations

Swap the cheese: Use fontina, havarti, or gruyère if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Change the fruit: Thinly sliced pear, fresh figs, pomegranate seeds, or even a spoonful of fig jam work beautifully.

Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the prosciutto.

Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on top for extra texture.

Try bacon: Crispy bacon can replace prosciutto for a smoky twist.

Extra herbs: A light sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary adds a seasonal touch.

Storage/Reheating

These crostini are best enjoyed fresh and warm the day they’re made.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind the arugula may wilt further when reheated.

You can also enjoy leftovers cold or at room temperature.

For make-ahead prep, slice the baguette and brie in advance and store them separately. The hot honey can also be prepared ahead of time and gently rewarmed before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these crostini ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble them just before serving. However, you can slice the bread and cheese ahead of time and prepare the hot honey in advance to save time.

What type of apple works best?

Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are ideal because they offer a crisp texture and balanced sweetness or tartness.

Do I need to remove the rind from the brie?

No, the rind is completely edible and softens as it bakes.

How spicy is the hot honey?

The spice level depends on how much hot sauce or cayenne you add. Start small and adjust to taste.

Can I use store-bought hot honey?

Yes, store-bought hot honey works perfectly if you prefer convenience.

What’s the best way to slice the apples?

Slice them thinly so they’re easy to bite into and layer neatly on the crostini.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free baguette or bread alternative.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

If prepping in advance, lightly toss the apple slices in a small amount of lemon juice to slow browning.

Can I serve these at room temperature?

Yes, they can be served at room temperature, though they’re best slightly warm when the brie is melty.

What can I serve alongside these crostini?

They pair beautifully with a simple charcuterie board, a fall salad, or sparkling beverages for a festive spread.

Conclusion

Apple and brie crostini with hot honey are the ultimate easy appetizer for fall and holiday gatherings. With creamy melted cheese, crisp apple, savory prosciutto, peppery arugula, and a drizzle of sweet heat, every bite delivers incredible flavor. Simple to prepare yet elegant in presentation, this recipe is one you’ll reach for again and again whenever you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.