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Holiday Caprese Crostini Wreath

Holiday Caprese Crostini Wreath

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A visually stunning and delicious appetizer, the Holiday Caprese Crostini Wreath brings festive cheer to your table with vibrant colors and classic Italian flavors. Featuring golden toasted baguette slices topped with creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a balsamic glaze, this wreath is perfect for Christmas gatherings, holiday parties, or any winter celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This appetizer combines simplicity with elegance, making it both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. The crisp crostini base offers a satisfying crunch, while the mozzarella and tomatoes deliver fresh, creamy, and juicy textures. Balsamic glaze ties everything together with a tangy sweetness, and the wreath presentation adds a festive touch that fits right in with the holiday spirit.

Ingredients

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

  • 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds

  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn

  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush each with olive oil.

  2. Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Let cool.

  3. On a large round serving board or platter, arrange the toasted crostini in a circular wreath shape.

  4. Top each crostini with a slice or piece of mozzarella.

  5. Add halved cherry tomatoes on top of the cheese.

  6. Sprinkle with chopped basil.

  7. Drizzle the entire wreath with balsamic glaze.

  8. Season with salt and black pepper, then lightly dust with Parmesan cheese.

  9. Garnish the center with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 20–24 crostini.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Cheese Options: Try burrata or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

  • Tomato Substitutes: Use heirloom tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.

  • Mini Skewers: Make individual Caprese bites on toothpicks for a skewer-style version.

  • Vegan Version: Use plant-based mozzarella alternatives and skip the Parmesan.

  • Add Protein: Top with thinly sliced prosciutto or salami for a heartier appetizer.

Storage/Reheating

This crostini wreath is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the bread. However, you can prep components ahead of time:

  • Storage: Keep toasted crostini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Store tomatoes, cheese, and chopped basil separately in the refrigerator.

  • Reheating: If crostini soften, briefly re-toast them in a 350°F oven for 2–3 minutes before assembling.

FAQs

Can I make the crostini ahead of time?

Yes, you can toast the crostini a day ahead and store them in an airtight container.

What is the best balsamic glaze to use?

Use a store-bought balsamic glaze or reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened.

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes, sourdough or Italian loaf also works well, as long as it’s sliced thin and toasted.

How do I keep the crostini from getting soggy?

Assemble just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the crostini.

Can this be served cold?

Yes, it can be served at room temperature or chilled.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free baguette or bread.

How do I make it look like a wreath?

Arrange crostini in a circle on a large round board and garnish the center with basil or rosemary for a wreath effect.

Can I add garlic for extra flavor?

Yes, you can rub the toasted bread with a cut garlic clove before adding toppings.

What wine pairs well with this appetizer?

A crisp Pinot Grigio or light Chianti complements the fresh flavors beautifully.

Can I make a larger wreath for a big crowd?

Absolutely. Just increase the ingredient quantities accordingly and use a larger platter.

Conclusion

The Holiday Caprese Crostini Wreath is an ideal appetizer for festive occasions. It’s easy to assemble, full of fresh flavor, and adds a decorative flair to your holiday spread. With its classic Caprese elements and festive presentation, this dish is sure to be a seasonal favorite year after year

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Holiday Caprese Crostini Wreath

Holiday Caprese Crostini Wreath

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  • Author: Emma Delaney
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 20 crostini 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

A festive Caprese-inspired crostini wreath featuring crispy baguette slices topped with creamy mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a balsamic drizzle—perfect for holiday gatherings and entertaining.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Toast for 8–10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Let cool.
  2. Arrange toasted crostini in a circular wreath pattern on a large round wooden platter or serving board.
  3. Top each slice with a piece of mozzarella.
  4. Spoon halved cherry tomatoes evenly over the cheese.
  5. Sprinkle with chopped basil, then drizzle balsamic glaze over the entire wreath.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper, and finish with a light dusting of Parmesan.
  7. Garnish the center with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use heirloom cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
  • Assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess.
  • Add a touch of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat if desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 crostini
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

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