🍎 Caramelized Apple & Bacon Crostini – The Perfect Fall Party Bite
Every year, my work hosts a food challenge. A couple of years ago, it was a soup challenge. Last year, it was all about appetizers. This year? 🍏 It’s “Bring Your Best Fall Food Using Apples!”
As soon as I heard the theme, I knew exactly what I’d be making. This recipe has been a hit at every family fall gathering — sweet, savory, and just a little unexpected. And honestly? I think it’s going to take the crown at work too. 👑
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✨ Crowd-Pleasing: A little sweet, a little salty, a little creamy — every bite is packed with flavor.
✨ Beautiful Presentation: Easy to dress up for parties, potlucks, or even holiday tables.
✨ Fall in Every Bite: Apples, cinnamon, and thyme make it seasonal and cozy.
🍏 Caramelized Apple & Bacon Crostini
Ingredients (Makes ~24 crostini)
- 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2–3 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady work great), thinly sliced
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 4 oz goat cheese (or cream cheese if you prefer milder)
- 2 oz cream cheese (to soften goat cheese & make it creamier)
- 1 Tbsp honey
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
- Balsamic glaze (store-bought drizzle works fine)
Instructions
1. Prep the Bread
Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush baguette slices lightly with olive oil. Toast on a baking sheet for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.
2. Cook the Bacon
Cook bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
3. Caramelize the Apples
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add apple slices, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir occasionally, cooking until apples are soft, golden, and caramelized (about 8–10 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Make the Cheese Spread
In a small bowl, whip together goat cheese, cream cheese, and honey until smooth and spreadable.
5. Assemble Crostini
Spread a layer of cheese mixture on each toasted baguette slice. Top with a spoonful of caramelized apples. Sprinkle bacon crumbles over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze for a finishing touch.
🌿 Presentation Tips
- Arrange neatly on a white platter or wooden board.
- Add a few whole apples and thyme sprigs around the tray for that rustic “fall harvest” look.
- Right before serving, do a final balsamic drizzle for shine and that Instagram-worthy finish.
This is the kind of recipe that makes people stop mid-bite and say, “Wow, what is this?!” It’s perfect for fall parties, holiday gatherings, and (fingers crossed 🤞) winning my office’s Big Apple Challenge.
🍎 Tell me in the comments — what’s your favorite way to cook with apples in the fall?