Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini

Name: Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 baguette; 8 oz goat cheese, softened; 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

I love whipping up these Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini for a quick and elegant appetizer. The creamy goat cheese combined with fresh herbs creates a beautifully vibrant flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispness of toasted baguette slices. I especially enjoy serving these during gatherings, as they are reminiscent of sun-drenched Mediterranean summers. The touch of garlic, along with a drizzle of olive oil, elevates the taste profile, making it a standout treat that has never failed to impress my guests.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-02-04T14:57:27.181Z

Making Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini takes me back to my travels through France, where I first indulged in the simple yet delicious concept of topping crisp bread with flavorful cheeses. Experimenting in my kitchen, I found that adding fresh herbs like thyme and chives to the goat cheese not only enhances its creaminess but also infuses it with an aromatic touch. I often switch up the herbs based on seasons, which adds a personal twist to each batch I make.

One key tip I've learned is to allow the goat cheese to come to room temperature before mixing in the herbs. This ensures a smooth and creamy consistency that spreads beautifully on the toasted crostini. Additionally, a drizzle of balsamic glaze provides a wonderful contrast to the rich cheese, enhancing both presentation and flavor. I promise you'll fall in love with this little culinary delight!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy goat cheese complemented by fragrant herbs
Crispy crostini that adds a delightful crunch
Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in

Understanding Goat Cheese and Herbs

Goat cheese is notable for its tangy flavor and creamy texture, which makes it an ideal base for this crostini. The choice of fresh herbs, like chives and thyme, not only enhances the cheese but also adds vibrant color and aroma. Chives contribute a mild onion-like flavor, while thyme imparts earthiness, balancing the dish beautifully. When mixing, it's important to use softened cheese to achieve a smooth consistency; microwave it for 10-15 seconds if needed, but watch carefully to prevent overheating.

Herbs are best when fresh. Dried herbs can be used, but they won't provide the same depth of flavor. If you don’t have fresh thyme or chives on hand, consider substituting with parsley or dill for a different yet complementary taste. Just remember to adjust the quantities, as fresh herbs are more aromatic than their dried counterparts.

Perfecting the Crostini

Toasting your baguette slices to perfection is essential for achieving that delightful crunch. Aim for a golden brown color, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Keep a close eye to prevent burning, as each oven can behave slightly differently. I recommend flipping the slices halfway through to ensure even browning on both sides, which will enhance their texture and flavor.

If you want to elevate your crostini even further, try adding a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top of the toasted bread before spreading the goat cheese. This added touch will enhance the overall flavor and give a slight kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini:

Ingredients

1 baguette
8 oz goat cheese, softened
2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious crostini:

Prepare the Baguette

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette into 1/2 inch slices and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden and crisp.

Mix the Goat Cheese

In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped chives, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Assemble the Crostini

Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spread the herbed goat cheese mixture generously on each slice.

Finish and Serve

Drizzle balsamic glaze over the crostini and serve immediately. Enjoy your elegant appetizer!

Your Herbed Goat Cheese Crostini will impress everyone!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the herb mix according to your preferences. Fresh basil or oregano also works wonderfully. You can prepare the goat cheese mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the crostini.

Make-Ahead Tips

For those planning ahead, the herbed goat cheese mixture can be prepared 1-2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors as they meld but also saves you precious time on the day of your gathering. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the crostini for the best texture.

The toasted baguette slices should be made fresh for the best crunch, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes to restore that crispy bite.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the basic herbed goat cheese crostini is delicious on its own, consider adding different toppings to suit your taste. Sliced figs or peaches can be a delightful addition, bringing a sweet contrast to the tangy cheese. For a more savory twist, combine caramelized onions with the goat cheese before spreading for an incredible depth of flavor.

Pair the crostini with a selection of olives or marinated artichokes on a platter for a Mediterranean theme. You might also consider serving them with a light salad or as part of a charcuterie board, providing varied textures and flavors that complement the crostini beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these crostini in advance?

You can prepare the herbed goat cheese mixture ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the crostini just before serving for maximum crunch.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can add toppings like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives for a nice twist.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes! You can substitute the baguette with gluten-free bread or crackers.

→ How should I store leftover crostini?

If there are leftovers, store the crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the texture of the bread may change.