As soon as I made my Bacon Jam Crostini, I knew I had to experiment with more varieties! These Cranberry Bacon Jam and Feta Crostini are the ultimate sweet-and-savory appetizer! Crisp, golden baguette slices are topped with my homemade cranberry bacon jam and a sprinkle of creamy feta. They’re easy to prep, perfect for a holiday appetizer tray, and always a crowd-pleaser. For more bacon jam inspiration, check out the list of my best bacon jam recipes. And, if you are all about cranberries this holiday season, check out more cranberry recipes, too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- French Baguette: Choose a sturdy, crusty baguette for the best crostini. You can also use a rustic Italian loaf or sourdough for a slightly different flavor and texture. Slice into rounds about 1/2-inch thick.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Brush lightly on the bread before baking to help it crisp without getting soggy. You can also use melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Cranberry Bacon Jam: I love using my homemade cranberry bacon jam for sweet-and-savory depth, but store-bought works well in a pinch. Other bacon jams or even fig-bacon preserves can be a fun twist.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds tang and creaminess. Goat cheese or blue cheese would be great substitutes for a milder or more pungent flavor.
- Fresh Chives: Finely chopped for garnish. Green onions or parsley can be used if you prefer a different fresh note.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Toast the baguette slices ahead, then top the crostini with cranberry bacon jam and feta just before serving. The crostini are best served immediately for maximum crispness.
Can I use store-bought bacon jam?
Absolutely! Store-bought works well, but homemade bacon jam gives more depth of flavor.
Can I make them vegetarian?
You can swap the bacon jam for a cranberry-fig or mushroom-based jam and still enjoy the sweet-savory combination.
Can I prepare the jam in advance?
Yes! Cranberry bacon jam keeps in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks and can be made ahead for easy entertaining.
Variations
- Extra Sweet & Tangy: Add a thin slice of orange or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the crostini.
- Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
- Mini Crostini: Slice the baguette thinner for bite-sized hors d’oeuvres.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cranberry bacon jam before spreading.
Serving Ideas
- Arrange on a party platter for holiday gatherings or cocktail parties.
- Pair with a simple charcuterie board of cured meats and cheeses.
- Serve alongside a fresh side salad for a light appetizer before dinner.
How to Store Cranberry Bacon Jam and Feta Crostini
Unassembled: Toasted baguette slices can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Jam: Keep cranberry bacon jam refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
Assembled Crostini: Best served immediately; assembled crostini do not store well as the bread will soften.
Cranberry Bacon Jam and Feta Crostini
Ingredients
- 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds (about 20 slices)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup cranberry bacon jam, divided
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled, divided
- fresh chives, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet and brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the bread is crisp. Let the crostini cool for about 5 minutes before topping.
- Spread a generous layer of cranberry bacon jam (about ½ to ¾ tablespoon) on each crostini.
- Top with a sprinkle of feta cheese.
- Garnish with chopped chives.
- Serve immediately while the bread is still slightly warm.
Did you make this recipe?
You can tag me at @iamhomesteader.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
These are fantastic! Sweet, savory, and so easy to make (especially if you have the bacon jam made ahead of time).
Elizabeth
Oh, wow. These are SO GOOD! It is one of my new favorite appetizers.
Stephanie
I love the cranberry bacon jam paired with the feta cheese. They look festive and taste amazing.
Bella
Wow, the flavors in each bite of the crostini are incredible. I love this recipe!
