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Sweet Heat Cranberry Jalapeno Crostini: Easy Fall Appetizer

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A quick and easy fall appetizer featuring a tart and spicy cranberry jalapeno relish on crispy baguette slices with creamy cheese. Perfect for gatherings, this sweet heat crostini is a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but is simple to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 small jalapeno, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds (about 20–24 slices)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • Optional garnish: fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Make the cranberry relish: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, diced jalapeno, water, orange zest, orange juice, and salt. Stir together. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most cranberries have burst and mixture is thick and jam-like. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  2. Toast the baguette slices: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush tops lightly with olive oil. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp on both sides. Let cool.
  3. Spread the cream cheese: Once toasts are cool enough to handle, spread a thin layer of softened cream cheese onto each one (about 1 teaspoon per crostini).
  4. Top with relish: Spoon a generous dollop of cooled cranberry jalapeno relish onto each cream cheese-covered toast. Spread slightly with the back of the spoon, letting some cream cheese peek through.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately. Best within an hour of assembly.

Notes

The cranberry relish can be made up to 5 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before assembling. For best results, toast the bread well and assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess. The relish also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry jalapeno crostini, fall appetizer, sweet heat, easy appetizer, holiday appetizer, cranberry relish, crostini recipe

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/sweet-heat-cranberry-jalapeno-crostini-easy-fall-appetizer/