Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 12 · Technique: Roasting · Storage: Airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Quick Answer
To create Butternut Squash Crostini, roast butternut squash and whip goat cheese, then assemble on toasted baguette slices for a festive appetizer.
As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red here in New York City, I find myself daydreaming of cozy gatherings filled with delicious food and good company. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, hosting friends for festive functions has become a delightful anticipation. One of my go-to appetizers that beautifully captures the essence of autumn is Butternut Squash Crostini with Whipped Goat Cheese & Sage. This dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavors that remind me of the holidays.
A Perfect Holiday Appetizer
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for autumn gatherings, adding a touch of seasonal flavor to your table.
- Easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.
- Visually stunning, making it a lovely centerpiece for any appetizer spread.
- Deliciously balanced flavors combining creamy goat cheese and sweet butternut squash.
- Versatile toppings can be added for creativity and variety.
Ingredients
This recipe requires the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:
For the Crostini
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped, plus whole sage leaves for garnish
- 8 ounces goat cheese, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- Balsamic reduction (optional)
How to Make Butternut Squash Crostini with Whipped Goat Cheese & Sage (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create a delightful appetizer that your guests will love:
Step 1: Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the butternut squash cubes on a large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked pepper, then toss them until well-coated. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized. You'll know it's perfect when the sweetness wafts through your kitchen and the edges start to brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Goat Cheese
In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature goat cheese, honey, and the chopped sage. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to whip the mixture until light and fluffy-a process that takes only a couple of minutes. The textures should meld into a creamy, luscious delight that complements the savory squash effortlessly.
Step 3: Toast the Baguette
While the squash roasts, arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil and toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them, as nothing is worse than burnt toast!
Step 4: Assemble the Crostini
Once the roasted butternut squash is cool enough to handle, it's time to put everything together. Spread a generous dollop of the whipped goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice, then top it with a few pieces of roasted squash. Finish with a whole sage leaf for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Drizzle a touch of balsamic reduction over each crostini if you like, adding a subtle tang that balances beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese and sweetness of the squash. Serve your crostini at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the roasting: Boiling or microwaving the butternut squash will not develop the rich, nutty flavor that roasting provides.
- Using cold cheese: Make sure your goat cheese is at room temperature; cold cheese won't whip properly and will be too dense for spreading.
- Overtoasting the bread: Keep a close watch while toasting the baguette; it's better to under-toast than to end up with burnt, bitter pieces.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add pomegranate seeds or chopped nuts for added texture and color.
- Make ahead: You can roast the squash and whip the goat cheese a day ahead. Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.
- Serving platter: Arrange in a circular pattern on a large platter to create an inviting presentation that draws everyone in.
Variations
- Substitute butternut squash with roasted sweet potatoes or pumpkin.
- Use feta cheese or cream cheese instead of goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
How to Serve
- Serve crostini at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
- Pair with a selection of wines that complement the dish's sweetness and creaminess.
- Garnish with extra sage leaves or microgreens for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage:
- Make Ahead: You can roast the squash and whip the goat cheese a day ahead. Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.
- Storage: These crostini are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the crostini and topping separate to maintain the texture of the bread.
- Reheating: If needed, you can lightly reheat the bread in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispness.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the crostini will suffer after freezing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned:
Through my testing, I discovered that the symphony of flavors in this dish truly shines when each component is given its moment. The creamy goat cheese and the sweet butternut squash create a balance that is both comforting and festive-perfect for the upcoming holiday gatherings.
Yield and Serving Size:
Yield: 20 crostini · Serving Size: 2 crostini
Nutrition Snapshot:
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~150 calories · 5g protein · 20g carbs · 6g fat
Recipe by:
Flavorful Butternut Squash Crostini with Goat Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the butternut squash cubes on a large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked pepper, then toss until well-coated. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- In a mixing bowl, combine room-temperature goat cheese, honey, and chopped sage. Use a hand mixer or whisk to whip until light and fluffy.
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
- Spread a generous dollop of whipped goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice, then top it with a few pieces of roasted squash. Garnish with a whole sage leaf.
- If desired, drizzle balsamic reduction over each crostini and serve at room temperature.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?
Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that this will alter the taste and texture of the crostini.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of this crostini, you can use a vegan cream cheese alternative and skip the honey or replace it with maple syrup or agave nectar. Additionally, ensure the baguette is made without dairy.
Can I freeze the butternut squash crostini?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the roasted butternut squash separately. Thaw and reheat before assembling the crostini. However, it's not recommended to freeze the assembled crostini, as the bread may become soggy upon thawing.
