There’s something magical about fall the shift in the air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the irresistible pull toward comfort food that feels both festive and nourishing. One recipe I come back to every year is this Apple and Brie Crostini (on gluten free baguette). It’s a simple, elegant appetizer that celebrates seasonal fruit and creamy cheese in perfect balance.
As a gluten-free chef who grew up in Tuscany, I’ve always believed that food should connect us to memories. This dish reminds me of autumn picnics with my family, baskets filled with crusty bread, wheels of soft cheese, and fresh-picked apples. These crostini take that same idea and bring it to your table gluten-free, beautiful, and ready in under 20 minutes.
Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or just want something cozy and quick for yourself, this appetizer delivers. It’s one of the most requested recipes on my site and once you taste it, you’ll know why.
Apple and Brie Crostini (on Gluten Free Baguette)
Equipment
- oven
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- basting brush
- knife
Ingredients
- 1 gluten-free baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- 6 oz Brie cheese, thinly sliced
- 1 Honeycrisp or Fuji apple, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 pinch flaky salt
- fresh thyme (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the gluten-free baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers remain soft. Don’t overbake—gluten-free bread dries faster than wheat.
- Layer a slice of Brie and 2–3 apple slices onto each piece of toast. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, just until the Brie begins to melt.
- Remove from oven, drizzle with honey, sprinkle flaky salt, and garnish with thyme leaves if using. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Nutrition
What You’ll Need to Make Apple and Brie Crostini (on Gluten Free Baguette)
This recipe is all about simplicity and quality ingredients. You only need a handful of items, but each one plays an important role in flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 gluten-free baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
- 6 oz Brie cheese, thinly sliced
- 1 Honeycrisp or Fuji apple, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Fresh thyme (optional for garnish)
- Pinch of flaky salt
You can use a store-bought gluten-free baguette or make your own using my recipe for soft homemade gluten-free bread. Just shape it into a baguette and slice once cooled.
Step by Step Instructions for Easy Crostini
Step 1: Toast the baguette
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the gluten-free baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Brush lightly with olive oil.
Step 2: Crisp it up
Bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers remain soft. Don’t overbake gluten-free bread dries faster than wheat.
Step 3: Add the toppings
Layer a slice of Brie and 2–3 apple slices onto each piece of toast. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, just until the Brie begins to melt.
Step 4: Final touches
Remove from oven, drizzle with honey, sprinkle flaky salt, and garnish with thyme leaves if using. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Want something similar with a sweeter twist? You’ll love my mini gluten-free vegan apple muffins for brunch or snack time.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Apple and Brie Crostini
- Use crisp apples. Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Fuji apples hold their texture well.
- Bring Brie to room temperature before slicing it melts more evenly and spreads easier.
- Slice baguette evenly so it toasts at the same rate.
- Skip the rind on Brie if you prefer a smoother texture.
If you’re planning a larger spread, pair this appetizer with something savory like my parmesan garlic cauliflower bites or the cozy gluten-free lasagna soup a reader favorite.
Creative Variations
While this classic version is delicious on its own, you can tweak it to suit your taste or occasion:
1. Add a streusel topping
Mix a tablespoon of chopped nuts with a pinch of cinnamon and brown sugar. Sprinkle over the crostini before baking for a dessert-like feel similar to my gluten-free apple crisp.
2. Try different cheese
Goat cheese, blue cheese, or a dairy-free brie substitute can work beautifully here. Look for smooth, spreadable vegan options like the ones I use in my dairy-free cheesecake bites.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze
Swap honey for a thick balsamic reduction for a more savory and bold contrast.
4. Add crunch
Top with toasted pecans, crushed walnuts, or even gluten-free granola like the one in my Greek yogurt parfait jars.
Storage & Make Ahead Tips
Apple and Brie Crostini (on gluten free baguette) is best served fresh, but here’s how to prep ahead:
- Make ahead: Toast baguette slices and slice apples up to 1 day in advance. Store separately in airtight containers.
- Store leftovers: Keep assembled crostini in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note: texture may soften.
- Reheat: Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 5–7 minutes to revive crispness. Avoid microwaving—gluten-free bread turns soggy.
For more easy gluten-free meal prep ideas, explore my 10-minute avocado toast variations or easy chicken lunch boxes.
FAQ
Can I make this completely dairy-free?
Yes. Use a plant-based Brie alternative and maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
What kind of gluten-free baguette works best?
Choose one with a soft crumb and crisp crust. If making your own, follow my no-knead gluten-free bread and shape into mini loaves.
Can I make this recipe for a large crowd?
Absolutely. Simply double or triple the ingredients. These can be prepped on baking sheets and served buffet-style.
Do apples need to be cooked first?
No. The quick bake with the Brie softens them slightly, but they keep a pleasant crunch.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this Apple and Brie Crostini (on gluten free baguette) delivers both flavor and comfort. The contrast of warm cheese, crisp apples, and sweet honey on toasted gluten-free bread feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to pull off.
If you’re inspired by seasonal comfort food like this, don’t miss my gluten-free blueberry coffee cake or baked parmesan crusted chicken for more warm, nourishing bites.