Cinnamon Bun Spiced Goat Cheese Crostini

This crostini is a sophisticated tribute to National Cinnamon Bun Day, featuring the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar balanced by the creamy tang of goat cheese. The toasted baguette provides a perfect crunch, while the spiced apple butter and candied pecans deliver a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and nutty notes. It's an elegant appetizer that captures the essence of a cozy autumn morning.

Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 fresh baguette, thinly sliced and lightly toasted
8 ounces creamy goat cheese, softened
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of ground cloves
2 tablespoons chopped pecans, toasted
1 tablespoon maple syrup, for drizzling

Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly toast for 5-7 minutes minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix until a smooth, spiced butter mixture forms.
In another bowl, gently fold the spiced butter mixture into the softened goat cheese until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Spread a generous amount of the cinnamon bun spiced goat cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
Arrange the crostini on a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted chopped pecans.
Just before serving, drizzle lightly with maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness and glaze.

Chef's Tip & Pairing

For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the brown sugar before mixing it into the goat cheese. This recipe pairs beautifully with a slightly chilled, off-dry Riesling, whose acidity and stone fruit notes will complement the sweetness and spice of the crostini.

From the Tini Crostini Collection