As I took a moment to savor the sun-kissed flavors of summer, I realized nothing can elevate a gathering quite like the perfect appetizer. These Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches perfectly embody that spirit, bringing together the creaminess of burrata, the saltiness of prosciutto, and the sweet juiciness of ripe peaches. Not only are they impressively easy to make, but they also strike a marvelous balance between rich and refreshing, making them an absolute crowd-pleaser. Topped with a drizzle of hot honey, this appetizer will transport you straight to a sunlit terrace, allowing you to escape the grind of everyday life. Are you ready to wow your friends and family with this gourmet delight that celebrates summer’s best ingredients?
Why Will You Love This Crostini?
Gourmet Experience: Elevate your appetizer game with this twist on classical flavors, showcasing rich burrata paired with the savory goodness of prosciutto.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delightful bites that require minimal effort, perfect for busy home cooks.
Seasonal Bliss: Juicy peaches bring a burst of freshness, allowing the dish to shine during summer gatherings. For an alternative, why not try experimenting with seasonal fruits?
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a sunny picnic or a cozy dinner party, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at any table.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up ingredients—use figs or strawberries if peaches aren’t available. Check out my variation ideas to inspire your next culinary creation!
Texture Contrast: Enjoy the crispy crostini and creamy burrata contrasting perfectly with the sweet, juicy peaches, creating a delightful sensory experience.
Cheesy Burrata Crostini Ingredients
For the Crostini Base
- Sourdough or French Baguette – This provides a sturdy foundation; opt for gluten-free bread if needed.
- Melted Butter – Helps achieve a golden toast; use olive oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Cheese Mixture
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor; substitute with Grana Padano if you’re in a pinch.
- Pecorino Cheese – Enhances the dish’s depth; use more Parmesan if you can’t find Pecorino.
- Garlic – Essential for aromatic flavor; finely grate for an even distribution.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves – Provides a hint of herby freshness; feel free to replace with oregano or basil for variety.
For the Topping
- Prosciutto – Introduces a crispy, salty layer; replace with cooked bacon for a unique twist.
- Burrata Cheese – The star of the dish, bringing creamy richness; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy spreading.
- Ripe Peaches – Add summer sweetness and juiciness to each bite; nectarines or pears make great substitutes.
- Hot Honey – A sweet and spicy drizzle that elevates the flavor; regular honey works if you prefer less heat.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds a vibrant garnish; swap with arugula or microgreens for a different flair.
Each ingredient in this Cheesy Burrata Crostini recipe contributes to a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will delight your senses!
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 heats up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help create a beautifully crisp base for your Cheesy Burrata Crostini, ensuring that every bite is delightful and visually appealing.
Step 2: Make Cheesy Base
In a medium bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, Pecorino cheese, finely grated garlic, fresh thyme leaves, melted butter, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined. Spread this cheesy mixture evenly across the parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a savory base that will infuse the crostini with flavor as they bake.
Step 3: Layer the Bread
Slice your sourdough or French baguette into ½-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on top of the cheese mixture, ensuring each piece makes contact with the cheesy goodness. Brush the tops with a bit more melted butter for added flavor and golden color, then layer on the prosciutto, placing it gently atop the bread for a perfect salty contrast.
Step 4: Bake
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook, looking for the bread to turn a beautiful golden brown, while the cheese bubbles enticingly. This crucial step ensures your Cheesy Burrata Crostini have that irresistible crispy texture paired with melted cheese.
Step 5: Assemble Crostini
Once the crostini are out of the oven and cooled slightly, transfer them to a lovely serving platter. Time to add the finishing touches—top each piece generously with a spoonful of rich, creamy burrata. Next, layer on slices of ripe peaches, allowing their sweet juiciness to shine through, balancing the savory flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Hot Honey
To elevate your Cheesy Burrata Crostini, drizzle hot honey over each assembled piece just before serving. This will not only add a touch of sweetness but also a delightful spicy kick that complements the richness of the burrata and the saltiness of the prosciutto. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredible dish!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Burrata Crostini
Crisp Perfection: Ensure the prosciutto is thinly sliced and spread evenly on the baking sheet for a perfect crispy texture.
Serve Warm: These crostini are best when served warm, but they also hold up nicely at room temperature for gatherings.
Pre-Make Smartly: Assemble the crostini without the burrata and peaches if making ahead; add these just before serving to keep them fresh.
Use Room Temperature Burrata: Allow the burrata to come to room temperature before adding it to enhance its creamy texture for the cheesy burrata crostini.
Try Alternative Fruits: If peaches aren’t in season, use nectarines or figs for a delicious twist that keeps the dish exciting!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Burrata Crostini are perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead to save you time for gatherings! You can prepare the cheesy base and assemble the crostini (without the burrata and peaches) up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the uncooked crostini in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, bake them as instructed, then add the burrata and peach slices just before serving for the freshest flavor. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on your guests while the crowd-pleasing bites are taken care of!
What to Serve with Cheesy Burrata Crostini
Elevate your culinary experience and create a delightful full meal with these delicious pairings that complement the essence of summer.
Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast, refreshing your palate between bites. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of color.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots drizzled with honey echo the sweetness of the peaches, enhancing both the flavors and the visual appeal of your table.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay brings a buttery richness and acidity that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy burrata and savory prosciutto.
Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus complements the crostini’s sweetness, while still providing a fresh vegetable element to your meal.
Bruschetta: Serve a classic tomato bruschetta as a side; its bright, tangy flavors juxtapose the rich, creamy crostini. Your guests will love the variety!
Peach Bellini: This fruity cocktail will echo the peach topping while adding a fun celebratory touch to your gathering. Serve it chilled to enhance the summer vibe.
Storage Tips for Cheesy Burrata Crostini
Room Temperature: These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to leave them out for a short gathering, they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and consumed within a day for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating: If you want to enjoy them later, reheat your cheesy burrata crostini in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Assembly Note: If you plan to make these in advance, consider storing the components separately and assembling them just before serving to maintain the fresh taste of the cheese and peaches.
Cheesy Burrata Crostini Variations
Feel free to get creative with your crostini! Each variation will spark new flavors and exciting textures.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute burrata with a creamy cashew cheese for a nutty twist that keeps it rich and delicious.
- Herb Swap: Try fresh oregano or dill instead of thyme for a unique aromatic touch that refreshes the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a layer of thinly sliced jalapeños before baking for a delightful heat that balances beautifully with the creaminess.
- Fruit Fusion: Experiment with ripe figs or strawberries in place of peaches to add a sweet and tangy profile that impresses.
- Texture Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before drizzling with hot honey for an extra crunch that complements the creamy cheese.
- Balsamic Drizzle: For added depth, finish with a balsamic reduction drizzle instead of hot honey, giving a sweet tang that elevates the dish.
- Pesto Enhancement: Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on the bread before adding the cheese mixture for a heightened herby flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Different Meats: Swap prosciutto for crispy bacon or smoked salmon to explore delicious savory profiles that cater to various tastes.
Feel inspired? Try a few of these variations or mix and match your favorites! If you’re looking for more ideas, check out my creative flavor combinations to keep your cooking adventure fun and exciting.
Cheesy Burrata Crostini Recipe FAQs
What type of bread should I use for the Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
For this recipe, a sourdough or French baguette works beautifully as they provide a sturdy base. If you require a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with gluten-free bread.
How should I store leftover Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
The best way to enjoy these crostini is fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best consumed within one day to maintain their flavor and crispness.
Can I freeze Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
Yes, you can freeze the components! Assemble the crostini without the burrata and peaches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes, then add the fresh toppings just before serving.
What if my peaches aren’t ripe enough?
If your peaches aren’t quite ripe, you can place them in a paper bag at room temperature for a couple of days to help them ripen. If you’re short on time, consider using nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) as delicious alternatives that can add the necessary sweetness.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
Absolutely! Make sure to check for any gluten allergies if using traditional bread. For dairy sensitivities, you can swap burrata and cheeses with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese. Also, always double-check the prosciutto to ensure it aligns with your dietary choices, as some brands may contain added preservatives.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Cheesy Burrata Crostini?
To boost the overall flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt before serving, or even some fresh cracked black pepper. You can also experiment by drizzling different flavored oils over them, such as truffle oil, or adding a touch of balsamic glaze to elevate the taste profile further.
Cheesy Burrata Crostini: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine Parmesan, Pecorino, garlic, thyme, melted butter, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Slice the bread into ½-inch rounds and arrange on the cheese mixture. Brush tops with melted butter and layer on prosciutto.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer to a serving platter. Top with burrata and slices of peaches.
- Drizzle hot honey over each crostini just before serving.