50+ Delicious Winter Crostini Recipes for Family Gatherings

As winter blankets the landscape in a cozy layer of snow, it’s the perfect time to gather with friends and family around the warmth of good food and great conversation.

One of the most versatile and delightful appetizers for any winter gathering is crostini.

These delightful bites, featuring toasted bread topped with an array of flavorful ingredients, can be customized to suit every palate and occasion.

From savory and cheesy to sweet and fruity, the options are endless.

In this article, we’ve curated 50+ winter crostini recipes that will inspire you to create unforgettable appetizers this season.

Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday party, a cozy winter brunch, or simply looking for a new snack to enjoy by the fire, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and warm your hearts.

50+ Delicious Winter Crostini Recipes for Family Gatherings

Crostini are not only a delicious addition to your winter gatherings but also a creative canvas for showcasing seasonal ingredients.

With our collection of 50+ winter crostini recipes, you have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of flavors, textures, and presentations.

From rich cheeses and roasted vegetables to sweet fruits and decadent spreads, there’s a crostini recipe for every taste and occasion.

So grab your favorite baguette, gather your toppings, and let your culinary creativity shine this winter.

Your guests will be delighted, and you’ll create memories that linger long after the last bite is gone.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Crostini

Roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with aromatic sage and a hint of creamy goat cheese. This crostini is a warming, rustic appetizer perfect for cozy winter gatherings. The combination of the sweet roasted squash, savory herbs, and creamy cheese offers a satisfying depth of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10 fresh sage leaves
• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 4 oz goat cheese
• Honey for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
2. While the squash is roasting, heat a small skillet over medium heat and fry the sage leaves in a little olive oil until crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside on a paper towel to drain.
3. Slice the baguette into rounds and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
4. Spread goat cheese on each slice of toast. Top with a spoonful of roasted squash and a fried sage leaf.
5. Drizzle lightly with honey before serving.

The warm, earthy flavors of the roasted squash combined with the crispness of the sage and tangy goat cheese create a delightful balance of sweet and savory. This crostini will surely be a hit during the winter season, impressing guests with its elegance and flavor.

Caramelized Onion and Brie Crostini

Caramelized onions bring a rich, sweet depth of flavor to this crostini, which is balanced by the creamy, slightly salty brie. This indulgent appetizer is ideal for winter gatherings when you want to offer something warm and comforting yet refined.

Ingredients:

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 6 oz Brie cheese, sliced
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt, cooking slowly and stirring occasionally for about 30 minutes until caramelized. Add sugar during the last 5 minutes to enhance their sweetness.
2. While the onions cook, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
3. Once the onions are caramelized, spoon them over the toasted baguette slices. Place a slice of brie on top of each and return to the oven for 3-4 minutes, until the brie melts.
4. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

The slow-cooked sweetness of caramelized onions pairs harmoniously with the soft, creamy texture of the melted brie, making each bite luxurious. This crostini is perfect for winter nights when you crave something warm and comforting.

Fig and Prosciutto Crostini with Balsamic Glaze

This crostini is a delightful mix of savory and sweet, with a combination of salty prosciutto, sweet fig preserves, and a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a sophisticated yet easy-to-make appetizer that’s ideal for any winter gathering or holiday party.

Ingredients:

• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 6-8 thin slices of prosciutto, cut in half
• 4 tablespoons fig preserves
• 2 oz soft goat cheese or ricotta
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling
• Fresh arugula leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
2. Spread a thin layer of goat cheese or ricotta on each toast. Add a small dollop of fig preserves on top.
3. Fold a piece of prosciutto and place it over the figs. Optionally, add a few arugula leaves for a peppery bite.
4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

The combination of creamy cheese, sweet figs, and salty prosciutto, topped with a tangy balsamic drizzle, makes this crostini a complex and satisfying appetizer. It’s the perfect addition to any winter table, offering a gourmet touch to your spread.

Mushroom and Truffle Oil Crostini

This mushroom and truffle oil crostini is a rich, earthy appetizer perfect for winter evenings. The sautéed mushrooms bring a deep, savory flavor, while the hint of truffle oil adds a luxurious touch that elevates the dish. Paired with crusty bread, it’s a satisfying bite for any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 8 oz mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or oyster), thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1-2 teaspoons truffle oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until softened and slightly browned. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Toast the baguette slices in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
4. Spoon the sautéed mushrooms onto each toasted slice. Drizzle lightly with truffle oil and garnish with fresh parsley.

The combination of hearty mushrooms and the aromatic truffle oil creates an indulgent appetizer. Each bite is earthy and savory, making it a wonderful addition to your winter spread, especially for mushroom lovers.

Pomegranate and Whipped Ricotta Crostini

This crostini brings a bright, refreshing contrast to heavier winter fare with its creamy whipped ricotta and juicy bursts of pomegranate seeds. It’s a visually striking appetizer with a balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• ½ cup pomegranate seeds
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whip the ricotta cheese with honey, salt, and pepper until light and fluffy. Set aside.
2. Toast the baguette slices at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until golden.
3. Spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta on each toast. Top with a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

The creamy ricotta provides a luscious base, while the pomegranate seeds offer a delightful burst of tartness and sweetness. The fresh mint adds a refreshing finish, making this crostini a light yet flavorful appetizer that brightens up any winter table.

Blue Cheese and Pear Crostini with Walnuts

This crostini combines the sharp, tangy flavor of blue cheese with the sweetness of ripe pears, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The addition of toasted walnuts gives this appetizer a nutty crunch, making it a well-rounded and elegant choice for winter celebrations.

Ingredients:

• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 3 oz blue cheese, crumbled
• 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• Honey for drizzling
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and toast the baguette slices for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
2. Spread a small amount of blue cheese on each toast.
3. Add a slice of pear on top of the blue cheese, followed by a sprinkle of toasted walnuts.
4. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme.

The combination of blue cheese and pears is a classic, and when paired with crunchy walnuts and a touch of honey, this crostini becomes a gourmet delight. It’s perfect for a winter soirée, offering a sophisticated flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory.

Goat Cheese, Cranberry, and Pistachio Crostini

This crostini is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy goat cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy pistachios, making it an ideal appetizer for the winter season. The festive colors and bright flavors make it a standout dish at holiday parties or any cozy gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 4 oz goat cheese
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
• Honey for drizzling
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and toast the baguette slices for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
2. Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each crostini.
3. Top with a sprinkle of dried cranberries and chopped pistachios.
4. Drizzle with honey and garnish with a small sprig of fresh rosemary.

The creaminess of the goat cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart cranberries and the nutty crunch of pistachios. This crostini is not only visually appealing but also bursts with vibrant, festive flavors, making it a hit at any winter gathering.

Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream Cheese Crostini

This smoked salmon crostini is a sophisticated, savory appetizer perfect for winter brunches or holiday parties. The creamy dill-infused cream cheese complements the smoky, rich flavor of the salmon, while the crispy crostini adds the perfect crunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 6 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh dill or capers for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with fresh dill and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Toast the baguette slices at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
3. Spread the dill cream cheese mixture on each crostini.
4. Top with a slice of smoked salmon and garnish with extra dill or capers.

The rich and smoky salmon combined with the bright, fresh flavor of dill makes this crostini a classic and elegant choice. It’s perfect for winter entertaining, bringing a light yet luxurious option to your appetizer spread.

Brie, Apple, and Pecan Crostini

This Brie, apple, and pecan crostini is a warm and cozy appetizer that balances the creamy Brie with the sweetness of crisp apples and the crunch of toasted pecans. It’s a comforting, rustic crostini perfect for winter evenings or holiday get-togethers.

Ingredients:

• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 6 oz Brie cheese, sliced
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup toasted pecans, chopped
• Honey for drizzling
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast the baguette slices for 5-7 minutes until golden.
2. Place a slice of Brie on each crostini and return to the oven for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is just starting to melt.
3. Top each with a slice of apple and a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
4. Drizzle with honey and garnish with fresh thyme.

The creaminess of the melted Brie paired with the fresh, crisp apples and nutty pecans creates a beautifully balanced bite. The drizzle of honey adds just the right touch of sweetness, making this crostini a perfect winter indulgence, both comforting and elegant.

Spiced Sweet Potato and Feta Crostini

This spiced sweet potato and feta crostini is a deliciously hearty option for winter gatherings. The creamy feta cheese complements the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, while warm spices bring an inviting warmth to this festive appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potato with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
2. While the sweet potatoes roast, arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden.
3. Once the sweet potatoes are done, allow them to cool slightly. Top each toasted crostini with a spoonful of roasted sweet potato and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the creamy feta, creates a delightful contrast that will warm your guests on a chilly winter night. This crostini not only looks vibrant but also delivers a satisfying bite, perfect for holiday entertaining.

Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus Crostini

This roasted red pepper and hummus crostini is a bright and flavorful option that brings a Mediterranean flair to winter gatherings. The creamy hummus paired with smoky roasted red peppers creates a refreshing bite that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients:

• 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained and sliced
• 1 cup store-bought or homemade hummus
• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Paprika for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and toast for 5-7 minutes until golden.
2. Spread a generous layer of hummus on each toasted crostini.
3. Top with slices of roasted red pepper and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
4. If desired, sprinkle a bit of paprika on top for an extra touch of flavor.

This crostini is not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with flavor. The creamy hummus provides a hearty base, while the roasted red peppers add a sweet, smoky touch that is sure to please guests looking for something light yet tasty during winter festivities.

Spiced Pear and Gorgonzola Crostini

This spiced pear and gorgonzola crostini is a luxurious and indulgent appetizer that beautifully combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The creamy gorgonzola pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pears, making it an ideal choice for winter gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 4 oz gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Fresh arugula for garnish
• Balsamic reduction for drizzling (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and toast the baguette slices for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
2. In a small bowl, toss the pear slices with honey and cinnamon until well-coated.
3. Top each toasted crostini with a slice of spiced pear and a generous crumble of gorgonzola cheese.
4. Garnish with fresh arugula and drizzle with balsamic reduction, if using.

The sweet and spiced pears, combined with the rich and tangy gorgonzola, create a deliciously complex flavor profile. This crostini is not only visually appealing but also offers a gourmet experience, making it a standout dish at any winter gathering or holiday celebration.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!