Description
This Festive Cranberry Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Bruschetta is a delightful appetizer combining crisp toasted baguette slices with a creamy blend of cream cheese and fresh chives, topped with a sweet and spicy cranberry pepper jelly. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion, it balances savory, sweet, and peppery flavors in each bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
Spread
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry pepper jelly
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Toasting
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Garnish
- Additional chopped chives
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring a well-heated environment for toasting the baguette slices evenly.
- Prepare Baguette Slices: Arrange the sliced baguette pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil to help them become golden and crisp during toasting.
- Toast Baguette: Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the slices for about 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy, providing a sturdy base for the toppings.
- Mix Cream Cheese Spread: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped fresh chives, salt, and black pepper. Blend thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well integrated.
- Cool Toasts: Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven and let them cool slightly to avoid melting the cream cheese spread when applied.
- Apply Cream Cheese: Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese and chive mixture evenly over each toasted baguette slice to create a flavorful base.
- Add Cranberry Pepper Jelly: Spoon cranberry pepper jelly on top of the cream cheese layer. Let it drizzle over the sides for an attractive, festive appearance and added flavor contrast.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional chopped chives if desired for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh baguette for optimal crispness.
- Allow the toasted slices to cool slightly before spreading cream cheese to maintain the texture of the topping.
- The cranberry pepper jelly adds a spicy-sweet element; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- This appetizer is best served fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated without the jelly topping, adding it just before serving.
