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Honey Brie and Caramelized Onion Crostini

honey brie and caramelized onion crostini - featured image

This easy party appetizer features creamy brie, sweet caramelized onions, toasted walnuts, and a drizzle of honey atop crispy baguette slices. It’s a crowd-pleasing, elegant bite that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 fresh baguette (about 12 oz), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 23 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for brushing)
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)
  • 2 large yellow onions (about 1 lb), thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 8 oz brie cheese, sliced (double cream recommended)
  • 1/3 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 23 tablespoons honey (floral variety preferred)
  • Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice baguette into 1/2-inch rounds (about 24 slices). Arrange on a baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil. Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Set aside.
  2. Spread walnuts on a small baking tray. Toast in the oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes, shaking once, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove and cool.
  3. Heat butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, kosher salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring every few minutes, until onions are soft, deep golden, and jammy—about 25–30 minutes.
  4. Add balsamic vinegar to onions and stir for another 2 minutes to deglaze. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
  5. While onions cook, slice brie into small pieces about 1/4 inch thick. Chill brie for 10 minutes if too sticky.
  6. Lay toasted baguette slices on a tray. Top each with a slice of brie, a spoonful of caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts.
  7. Drizzle lightly with honey. Add fresh thyme and cracked black pepper if desired.
  8. Warm assembled crostinis in the oven for 2–3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) if you want the brie slightly melted (optional). Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with extra thyme. Serve immediately.

Notes

Caramelize onions slowly over medium-low heat for best flavor. Use cold brie for easier slicing. Toast walnuts separately to avoid burning. Assemble crostini just before serving to keep bread crisp. For gluten-free, use GF bread. For dairy-free, use vegan brie and maple syrup. Store components separately and reheat assembled crostini in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: crostini, brie, caramelized onion, honey, appetizer, party food, vegetarian, easy, walnuts, holiday, finger food