Crispy toasted baguette slices topped with creamy ricotta cheese, sweet pear slices, and savory prosciutto, finished with a drizzle of olive oil — an effortless yet elegant appetizer perfect for any gathering. This crostini recipe brings a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it ideal for any occasion from casual brunches to sophisticated dinner parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Prosciutto, Pear, and Ricotta Crostini recipe is incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers gourmet-level results. The combination of creamy ricotta, juicy ripe pears, and salty prosciutto creates a perfectly balanced bite. It is a versatile appetizer that can be made quickly, looks beautiful on a platter, and appeals to a wide range of palates. Additionally, the option to drizzle with honey adds a customizable touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced

• 6-8 slices prosciutto, torn into smaller pieces

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: honey for drizzling

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with olive oil.

3. Toast the slices for about 8-10 minutes, until golden and crispy.

4. Spread a generous layer of ricotta cheese onto each toasted slice.

5. Top each slice with a pear slice and a piece of prosciutto.

6. Drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper.

7. Optionally, drizzle with a little honey for added sweetness.

8. Serve immediately while the bread is still slightly warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 20 crostini, depending on the size of the baguette slices. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 8-10 minutes. Overall, you can expect the dish to be ready in under 20 minutes.

Variations

• Substitute goat cheese for ricotta for a tangier flavor.

• Use apples instead of pears for a different fruity twist.

• Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for additional aroma.

• For a vegetarian option, omit the prosciutto and add roasted walnuts for crunch.

• Swap out honey with a balsamic glaze for a more savory touch.

Storage/Reheating

These crostini are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to store them, keep the components separate. Toast the bread slices and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The assembled crostini do not store well, as the bread can become soggy. If necessary, you can lightly re-toast the bread slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to crisp them up before assembling.

FAQs

How far in advance can I prepare the crostini?

You can toast the baguette slices up to a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Assemble the crostini just before serving.

Can I use store-bought ricotta cheese?

Yes, store-bought ricotta cheese works perfectly for this recipe. For a creamier texture, you can whip it lightly before spreading.

What type of pears should I use?

Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal because they are sweet yet firm enough to hold their shape.

Can I grill the bread instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling the bread adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the crostini.

What other cheeses can I use besides ricotta?

You can use goat cheese, mascarpone, or a soft brie as delicious alternatives.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free baguette or gluten-free crackers as a base.

How should I slice the pears?

Slice the pears thinly to ensure they sit well on the crostini and are easy to bite into.

Can I make this a sweet appetizer?

Drizzling honey or a touch of cinnamon over the pears can give the crostini a sweeter profile.

Should the ricotta be seasoned?

It is not necessary, but you can lightly salt or sweeten the ricotta depending on your taste preference.

Can I serve these crostini cold?

Yes, they can be served at room temperature, but they are best when the bread is freshly toasted and still slightly warm.

Conclusion

Prosciutto, Pear, and Ricotta Crostini is a simple yet sophisticated appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and creamy elements in each bite. Whether you are hosting an elegant dinner party or looking for an easy-to-assemble starter, this crostini recipe offers versatility and elegance with minimal effort. Prepare these delightful bites for your next gathering and watch them disappear quickly.

Prosciutto, Pear, and Ricotta Crostini

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• Author: Emma Delaney
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 20 crostini
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Baking, Assembly
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Prosciutto, Pear, and Ricotta Crostini are effortless yet elegant appetizers featuring crispy toasted baguette slices layered with creamy ricotta, sweet ripe pears, and savory prosciutto. Perfect for festive gatherings, wine nights, or any occasion that calls for sophisticated, delicious bites!

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Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced

• 6-8 slices prosciutto, torn into smaller pieces

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: honey for drizzling

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil.

• Toast the slices for about 8–10 minutes, until golden and crispy.

• Spread a generous layer of ricotta cheese onto each toasted slice.

• Top each with a thin slice of pear and a piece of torn prosciutto.

• Drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.

• For added sweetness, drizzle a little honey over the top if desired.

• Serve immediately while the bread is still slightly warm

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Notes

• Use high-quality, creamy ricotta for the best texture and flavor.

• Bartlett or Bosc pears work especially well for their sweetness and firmness.

• Add a few arugula leaves for a fresh, peppery contrast.

• Prepare all components ahead and assemble just before serving to keep the crostini crisp.