Johnny's Apple Butter and Goat Cheese Crostini

This crostini is a celebration of spring flavors, combining the tart sweetness of apple butter with the creamy, salty tang of goat cheese. A sprinkle of toasted walnuts adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a perfect balance of texture and taste. It's a sophisticated appetizer that pays homage to the spirit of Johnny Appleseed Day.

Vegetarian

Ingredients

baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
tablespoons olive oil
oz soft goat cheese (chèvre)
1/4 cup high
quality apple butter
1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped and toasted
teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet.
Toast the crostini for 8 minutes
minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
While the crostini are cooling, lightly toast the chopped walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3 minutes
minutes until fragrant, then set aside.
Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each crostini, followed by a dollop of apple butter.
Garnish with the toasted walnuts, a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves, and a pinch of sea salt and pepper before serving.

Chef's Tip & Pairing

For an elevated flavor, use a spiced apple butter or make your own by simmering apples with cinnamon and cloves. Pair this crostini with a crisp, slightly off-dry Riesling or a light-bodied, fruit-forward Beaujolais.

From the Tini Crostini Collection