There’s something truly special about combining everyday ingredients in a way that feels luxurious and unexpected. Enter the Roasted Grape and Brie Crostini—a sweet-meets-savory masterpiece that pairs creamy brie with warm, juicy roasted grapes on crisp, golden baguette slices. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party, easy enough for a casual wine night, and comforting enough for a cozy weekend indulgence.
This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about creating a moment. A tray of these crostini invites your guests to pause, sip, savor, and enjoy. Whether you’re throwing a holiday gathering, setting up a chic appetizer spread, or simply experimenting with grape recipes, this dish is your new secret weapon.
🍇 The Inspiration Behind This Recipe
The idea for roasted grape and brie crostini comes from the European tradition of pairing fruit and cheese. Grapes and brie are already a staple of many cheese boards, but when roasted, grapes undergo a magical transformation—turning soft, syrupy, and rich in flavor.
It’s the same concept behind Baked Brie with Grapes and Honey or Pear and Brie Crostini—just elevated and concentrated. Roasting grapes intensifies their sweetness, balances the richness of the brie, and creates an unforgettable flavor harmony.
You might have tried Apple and Brie Crostini with Hot Honey or Grape and Goat Cheese Crostini—this one falls right in line with those crostini appetizers but adds a caramelized depth that feels truly gourmet.
🧺 Ingredients (Serves 6–8 as an appetizer)
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch pieces (about 20–24 slices)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small wedge brie cheese (8 oz), sliced or cut into 20–24 pieces
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
For the Roasted Grapes:
- 2 cups seedless red or black grapes (or a mix)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or hot honey (optional for finishing)
🍯 Want more zing? A splash of balsamic vinegar or pomegranate molasses before roasting grapes adds extra dimension.
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Grapes
Roasted grapes are the heart of this recipe. Their skins wrinkle slightly, juices intensify, and the flavor becomes wine-like and sweet.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread grapes in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and scatter thyme leaves on top (if using).
- Roast for 18–22 minutes, or until the grapes have softened and released some juices but are not completely collapsed.
- Remove from the oven and set aside.
🍷 Flavor Note: Roasting grapes almost mimics the richness of a fruity red wine reduction—this is what makes this crostini so luxurious.
Step 2: Prepare the Baguette Slices
The base of a good crostini is golden, crisp bread that can hold the toppings without falling apart.
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
- Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Bake in the same 400°F oven for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and toasted.
- Remove and cool slightly.
🧄 Optional: Rub one side of each warm slice with a cut garlic clove for subtle flavor.
Step 3: Melt the Brie
Brie should be soft and melty—but not a gooey mess. You want a slight melt that holds its shape.
- Place one slice of brie onto each baguette slice.
- Return to the oven for 3–4 minutes, just until the brie begins to melt and soften.
- Remove and let sit for 1 minute.
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
Now comes the fun part—layering all that flavor.
- Spoon a generous amount of roasted grapes over each brie-topped crostini.
- Finish with a drizzle of honey or hot honey for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and a tiny pinch of coarse sea salt.
✨ Presentation Tip: For a dramatic look, serve these on a dark wooden board with scattered grapes and a small bowl of honey on the side.
🧠 Why This Recipe Works
- Texture Contrast: The crunch of the crostini plays beautifully against the soft brie and roasted grapes.
- Flavor Balance: Sweet grapes, buttery brie, herbal thyme, and a touch of salt come together in a perfect bite.
- Flexibility: You can swap brie for other cheeses (goat cheese, ricotta), or the grapes for roasted figs, pears, or apples.
🍏 Creative Twists and Variations
🍐 Pear and Brie Crostini
Top crostini with sliced fresh pears and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fall-forward version.
🍎 Apple and Brie Crostini with Hot Honey
Use thin slices of green apple and hot honey for a spicy-sweet crunch.
🧀 Grape and Goat Cheese Crostini
Replace brie with creamy goat cheese for a tangier, earthier flavor. Add crushed pistachios or hazelnuts for crunch.
🥓 Savory Touch
Add a slice of crisped prosciutto or pancetta under the brie for a smoky, salty layer.
🌿 Herbed Ricotta Base
Spread lemon-thyme ricotta on the baguette before adding grapes—perfect for spring or summer brunches.
🎉 When to Serve These Crostini
Roasted grape and brie crostini shine at nearly any occasion:
- Holiday gatherings (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve)
- Elegant brunches or baby showers
- Dinner party starters or wine tastings
- Cheese board accompaniments
- Cozy date nights at home
They are also a fantastic alternative to your usual brie appetizers—far more impressive than just cheese and crackers.
⏱️ Make Ahead & Storage Tips
To prep ahead:
- Roast grapes and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Toast baguette slices and store in an airtight container for 1 day.
- Assemble just before serving and reheat briefly in the oven.
To store leftovers:
- Crostini are best eaten fresh, but you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 1 day.
- Reheat in a 325°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
📸 Styling Tips for Entertaining & Photography
Want these to look Pinterest-perfect? Try these presentation ideas:
- Use a long serving board and arrange crostini in a neat row.
- Drizzle hot honey in a zig-zag motion.
- Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds or crushed nuts for contrast.
- Use edible flowers or microgreens for a fine dessert finish.
✍️ Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Crostini Appetizer
The Roasted Grape and Brie Crostini is more than just an appetizer—it’s a conversation starter. It’s the kind of dish people remember and ask for again and again. With its balance of textures, flavors, and beauty, it checks every box for entertaining success.
Whether you’re planning a curated cheese board or just want to impress with a simple fancy dessert-style appetizer, this recipe delivers comfort and sophistication in each bite.
