If you are looking for a delightful appetizer that perfectly balances creamy, savory, and sweet flavors, this Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches Recipe is an absolute winner. Every bite offers a beautiful harmony between the rich burrata cheese, the salty prosciutto, and the juicy, fragrant peaches, all sitting atop a crispy toasted baguette slice. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that feels fancy enough for entertaining but is so easy to whip up any night you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in making this dish shine. Quality matters because the textures and flavors are front and center, allowing each component to sing in perfect harmony.
- Fresh baguette: Provides a crunchy, sturdy base that holds all the delicious toppings without getting soggy.
- Burrata cheese (8 oz): The star creamy cheese that melts slightly when spread, offering a luscious texture and mild tang.
- Prosciutto (4 oz, thinly sliced): Adds a salty, savory contrast that perfectly complements the sweetness of the peaches.
- Ripe peaches (2, sliced): Bring a juicy burst of sweetness and a gorgeous color contrast to the crostini.
- Balsamic glaze (2 tbsp): Provides a sweet and tangy finishing drizzle that ties together all the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh basil leaves (handful): Adds an herbaceous brightness and a pop of green for freshness and visual appeal.
- Olive oil: For drizzling on the baguette slices before toasting, creating golden crispness and a subtle fruity note.
How to Make Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Toast the Baguette
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the fresh baguette into ½-inch thick pieces; these slices will be the perfect size for handheld crostini. Arrange them neatly on a baking sheet so they toast evenly. Drizzle a little olive oil over each slice — it helps them crisp up beautifully and develop a slight golden color. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the slices are crisp and have that enticing toasted aroma.
Step 2: Spread Burrata Cheese
Once the crostini are toasted and slightly cooled, generously spread soft burrata cheese on each slice. Burrata has this incredible creamy center that will gently coat your taste buds, making every bite indulgent but still fresh. It’s the perfect canvas for the toppings that follow.
Step 3: Layer Prosciutto and Peaches
Next, add thinly sliced prosciutto on top of the burrata. The delicate saltiness and cured flavor of the prosciutto contrast beautifully with the cheese. Then place luscious slices of ripe peaches right over the prosciutto. The peaches add juicy sweetness and a hint of tartness that brings a lovely balance to the savory components.
Step 4: Drizzle Balsamic Glaze and Add Basil
For the finishing touch, drizzle balsamic glaze over each crostini to bring a subtle sweet and tangy dimension. The glaze also adds a beautiful glossy sheen that immediately elevates the presentation. Finally, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top— their fresh, peppery notes are just the thing to brighten the rich and sweet flavors.
How to Serve Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches Recipe
Garnishes
For extra flair, consider adding a pinch of cracked black pepper or a few crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. A gentle sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also enhance all the flavors. If you love nuts, a few toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds bring crunch and complexity.
Side Dishes
This crostini pairs wonderfully with a crisp mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a refreshing glass of chilled rosé. Serve beside a bowl of prosciutto-wrapped melon or light vegetable crudités for a colorful and utterly satisfying spread during gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the crostini on a long wooden board or slate platter for an elegant look. You can also serve them on a bed of fresh arugula or scatter edible flowers around for a stunning presentation. For a more casual vibe, place them in decorative baskets lined with parchment paper and let guests pick their favorites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep the crostini components separate for best results. Store toasted baguette slices in an airtight container to maintain their crispness, refrigerate burrata wrapped tightly, and keep sliced peaches and prosciutto covered as well. Assemble just before serving to preserve freshness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches Recipe because the texture of fresh peaches and creamy burrata doesn’t hold up well after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh to capture all the vibrant flavors and textures.
Reheating
If you want to reheat baguette slices, do so briefly in a toaster oven or under a broiler just until crisp again. Avoid reheating assembled crostini since the cheese and peaches will become mushy. Fresh assembly will always yield the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of burrata?
While burrata is uniquely creamy and soft, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can serve as substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will change slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.
What type of peaches work best?
Choose ripe but firm peaches— too soft and juicy peaches can make the crostini soggy, while unripe peaches won’t have enough sweetness to balance the dish.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients proportionally. This recipe scales beautifully and is perfect for parties or gatherings where finger foods are a hit.
Is balsamic glaze necessary?
The glaze adds a wonderful sweet and tangy note that ties the flavors together. If you don’t have it on hand, a drizzle of good quality aged balsamic vinegar can work in a pinch.
How long does this appetizer stay fresh once assembled?
It’s best enjoyed immediately after assembly. If needed, eat within a couple of hours for optimal texture and flavor before the crostini start to soften.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely special about this Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches Recipe that makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. It combines very simple ingredients in a way that feels luxurious and vibrant. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée, looking for a light snack, or just craving a burst of flavor, this recipe is sure to delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!
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Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Cheesy Burrata Crostini with Prosciutto and Peaches is a delightful appetizer that combines creamy burrata cheese, savory prosciutto, and juicy peaches atop crispy toasted baguette slices. Finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and fresh basil, it’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors ideal for entertaining or a light snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 fresh baguette
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 4 oz prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Handful fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Toast Baguette: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick pieces and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over each slice to enhance crispiness.
- Bake Crostini: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the baguette slices are golden brown and crispy, perfect for a sturdy base.
- Spread Burrata: Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven and spread a generous portion of creamy burrata cheese on each piece while still slightly warm for easier spreading.
- Layer Prosciutto and Peach: Top each crostini with thin slices of prosciutto followed by fresh peach slices, adding a combination of savory and sweet flavors.
- Add Final Touches: Drizzle the assembled crostini with balsamic glaze and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a vibrant, aromatic finish before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm peaches to prevent soggy crostini.
- Optionally, lightly brush olive oil on the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Balsamic glaze can be substituted with aged balsamic vinegar if glaze is not available.
- Serve immediately to maintain crostini crispiness.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the prosciutto.
