Roasted Grape Crostini with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Roasted Grape Crostini with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is a flavorful and elegant appetizer that blends sweet, savory, and nutty elements into a perfect bite. Roasting the grapes enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a jammy texture, while creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts provide a beautiful contrast in both taste and texture. Served on crispy toasted baguette slices and finished with a drizzle of honey, this appetizer is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Roasting the grapes brings out their natural sugars and adds a rich, caramelized flavor.

• The creamy goat cheese balances the sweetness of the grapes and adds a tangy note.

• Toasted walnuts give the dish a satisfying crunch and nutty depth.

• The combination of textures — crispy crostini, smooth cheese, soft roasted grapes, and crunchy nuts — creates an exciting eating experience.

• It’s perfect for gatherings, wine nights, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.

• Easy to prepare in stages — roast the grapes and toast the nuts in advance, then assemble before serving.

• Customizable with different nuts, cheese, or bread types.

• It looks gourmet but requires simple ingredients and easy preparation.

• Balanced flavors make it appealing to a wide range of palates.

• The honey drizzle ties everything together with a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups red seedless grapes (such as red globe or crimson)

• 2 teaspoons avocado oil or olive oil

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

• 5 ounces fresh goat cheese (chevre), softened

• 1 French baguette, sliced into 24 thin rounds (about ½-inch thick)

• ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts

• 2 teaspoons honey (plus more to taste)

Directions

1. Prepare the oven and pan:
   Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a large glass or ceramic baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.

2. Roast the grapes:
   In a medium mixing bowl, combine the red grapes, avocado oil (or olive oil), kosher salt, thyme, and black pepper. Toss well to coat the grapes evenly.
   Spread the grapes out in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
   Roast in the oven for 48 to 55 minutes, stirring once or twice during roasting. The grapes should become soft, wrinkled, and lightly caramelized.
   Remove the grapes from the oven and drizzle with the balsamic vinegar. Toss gently to coat and allow to cool slightly.

3. Toast the walnuts (if not already toasted):
   While the grapes are roasting or cooling, place the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant. Allow to cool before chopping.

4. Prepare the crostini:
   While the grapes roast, slice the baguette into thin rounds. Arrange on a baking sheet and toast in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are lightly golden and crisp. Remove and let cool.

5. Assemble the crostini:
   Spread a generous layer of softened goat cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.
   Spoon a few roasted grapes (along with some of their juices) over the goat cheese.
   Sprinkle with chopped toasted walnuts.
   Drizzle lightly with honey just before serving.

Servings and timing

• Yield: Approximately 24 crostini

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 48–55 minutes (grapes)

• Total time: About 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Use roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds in place of walnuts.

• Different Cheese: Try cream cheese, mascarpone, ricotta, feta, or even a mild blue cheese as an alternative to goat cheese.

• Add herbs: Sprinkle with chopped fresh rosemary or basil for a different herbal flavor.

• Spiced Honey: Warm the honey slightly and mix in a pinch of cayenne, cinnamon, or chili flakes for a touch of heat.

• Use other fruit: Swap grapes for roasted figs, plums, or cherries depending on the season.

• Bread substitution: Use sourdough rounds, gluten-free bread, or crackers for different textures and dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Roasted grapes can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• Toasted baguette slices should be kept in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Goat cheese can be softened in advance but is best spread fresh before serving.

• Walnuts should be stored separately in a cool, dry place.

• To reheat grapes, warm them gently in a low oven (275°F / 135°C) for 5–10 minutes or microwave briefly until just warm.

• Assembled crostini should be eaten immediately for best texture; they can become soggy if stored.

FAQs

What kind of grapes are best for roasting?

Red seedless grapes like red globe or crimson are best because they roast well and become sweet and jammy. Avoid overly tart or seeded varieties.

Can I use green grapes?

Green grapes can be used but may result in a more tart and less rich flavor. Red grapes are preferred for sweetness and color.

Is goat cheese necessary?

No, you can use other soft cheeses like cream cheese, feta, or ricotta. Each will bring a different flavor profile.

How can I keep crostini from getting soggy?

Assemble the crostini just before serving. Toast the bread well and avoid overloading with grape juice.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes. Use a plant-based cheese alternative and substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for the honey.

How long can I store roasted grapes?

Store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, but it’s best served at room temperature or slightly warm for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the roasted grapes?

Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of the grapes. Fresh or refrigerated is best.

How do I toast baguette slices perfectly?

Slice evenly, brush lightly with oil if desired, and bake at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp.

What drinks pair well with this crostini?

Try serving with dry white wine, sparkling wine, or a light red like Pinot Noir. The sweetness and acidity complement the dish well.

Conclusion

Roasted Grape Crostini with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that brings together sweet, savory, and crunchy elements in one delicious bite. It’s perfect for entertaining, easy to prepare in stages, and endlessly adaptable. With its rich flavor and elegant presentation, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for holidays, dinner parties, or casual get-togethers.