Caramelized Apple and Brie Crostini with Candied Pecans

This crostini is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring warm, tender caramelized apples spiced with cinnamon. The creamy, melted Brie cheese provides a rich, earthy base, all topped with crunchy, sweet candied pecans for an irresistible texture contrast.

Cheese & Dairy

Ingredients

1 baguette, thinly sliced
4 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and thinly sliced
2 Granny Smith apples, cored and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1/2 cup pecan halves
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, toss pecan halves with maple syrup and sea salt until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes minutes, or until toasted and caramelized. Let cool completely, then roughly chop.
Arrange baguette slices on a separate baking sheet. Lightly toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes minutes, until golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add sliced apples and brown sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes minutes, until apples are tender and caramelized.
Top each toasted baguette slice with a thin slice of Brie cheese and a spoonful of caramelized apples.
Return the crostini to the oven and bake for 3-5 minutes minutes, or until the Brie is melted and bubbly.
Garnish generously with the candied pecans and fresh thyme sprigs before serving immediately.

Chef's Tip & Pairing

For an extra layer of flavor, use a high-quality balsamic glaze instead of honey. This adds a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the apple and caramel.

From the Tini Crostini Collection