Homemade Crostini is incredibly versatile, easy to make, and requires just a few pantry ingredients. You can customize the seasoning, use different types of bread, and prepare it ahead of time for effortless entertaining. Whether served with dips, spreads, or toppings, crostini adds the perfect crunch to any dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Baguette or other crusty bread
Olive oil
Salt
Optional: garlic cloves, black pepper, herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the baguette into ¼-inch thick slices using a sharp knife.
Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Lightly brush both sides of each slice with olive oil.
Optionally, sprinkle with salt, pepper, or herbs.
Bake for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
If desired, rub a peeled garlic clove on the warm crostini for extra flavor.
Let cool before serving. Store once fully cooled for maximum crispness.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 25–30 crostini slices, depending on the size of the baguette. Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10–15 minutes Total time: 15–20 minutes
Variations
Garlic Crostini: Rub fresh garlic on the toasted slices or add garlic powder to the oil.
Cheesy Crostini: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before baking for a cheesy finish.
Herbed Crostini: Add dried rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning to the oil before brushing.
Whole Grain: Use whole wheat or multigrain bread for added nutrition.
Sweet: Brush with butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a dessert twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store completely cooled crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To re-crisp, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–5 minutes. Avoid storing in the refrigerator, as this can cause them to become chewy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, any crusty bread such as ciabatta, sourdough, or French bread works well.
How thin should I slice the bread?
About ¼-inch thick is ideal—thin enough to get crisp but thick enough to hold toppings.
Do I have to flip the crostini during baking?
Flipping helps them brown evenly on both sides, but it’s optional if you’re in a hurry.
Can I make crostini ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them up to 5 days in advance and store them in an airtight container.
Why are my crostini chewy instead of crispy?
They may not have baked long enough or weren’t fully cooled before storing.
Can I freeze crostini?
It’s not recommended as freezing may affect the texture. They’re best made fresh or stored at room temperature.
What are the best toppings for crostini?
Tomato bruschetta, whipped goat cheese, smoked salmon, tapenade, or even simple olive oil and salt.
Can I make them without oil?
Yes, but they won’t be as flavorful or golden. You can lightly mist them with water to help them toast.
Can I use flavored oils?
Absolutely. Garlic-infused or herb-infused olive oil adds extra flavor.
How do I keep them from burning?
Keep an eye on them while baking, especially toward the end. Oven temperatures vary, and they can brown quickly.
Conclusion
Homemade Crostini is a must-have recipe for anyone who loves simple, delicious food. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect crunchy base for all your favorite toppings. Once you master this easy technique, you’ll always have a go-to appetizer ready for any occasion.
Homemade Crostini is a crunchy, golden toasted bread appetizer made from thin slices of baguette brushed with olive oil and baked to perfection. Ideal for dips, spreads, or toppings, it’s a versatile base for entertaining or everyday meals.
Ingredients
1 baguette or crusty bread loaf
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
Optional: 1–2 garlic cloves, peeled
Optional: black pepper, dried herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the baguette into 1/4-inch thick slices.
Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Brush both sides of each slice lightly with olive oil.
Optionally, season with salt, pepper, or herbs.
Bake for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
If desired, rub a peeled garlic clove on the warm crostini for added flavor.
Let cool before serving. Store in an airtight container once fully cooled.
Notes
Use flavored olive oil (e.g., garlic or herb-infused) for extra taste.Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.Re-crisp in a 350°F oven for 3–5 minutes if needed.Do not store in the refrigerator—moisture can make crostini chewy.Try sweet versions by brushing with butter and cinnamon sugar.
