These Cranberry Bacon Jam Crostini are a flavor explosion waiting to happen, blending sweet, tangy, and smoky notes in every bite. The rich, velvety bacon jam, studded with tart cranberries, pairs perfectly with crispy, golden crostini for a textural contrast that’s simply irresistible. Ready in just 37 minutes, this appetizer is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.
Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors—savory bacon, bright cranberries, and a hint of sweetness—all balanced with a creamy, indulgent finish. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, this dish is a quick yet luxurious way to elevate any occasion. The combination of textures and tastes will leave everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients for Cranberry Bacon Jam Crostini
- For the Cranberry Bacon Jam:
- ▢ 1 pound thick-sliced bacon (use high-quality bacon for best flavor)
- ▢ 1 onion, minced (yellow or white onion works well)
- ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
- ▢ ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark, depending on preference)
- ▢ ¼ cup red wine vinegar (balsamic vinegar can be substituted)
- ▢ ½ cup cranberry juice (unsweetened preferred)
- ▢ ½ cup dried cranberries (substitute with raisins if needed)
- ▢ Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Crostini:
- ▢ 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
- ▢ 8 ounces smoked cheddar cheese, sliced (sharp cheddar or gouda are great alternatives)
- ▢ ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- ▢ Nonstick cooking spray (for baking sheet)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and arrange the bacon slices in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy. Remove and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Blot the top with another paper towel.
- Prepare the bacon: Coarsely chop or crumble the cooked bacon and set aside. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the baking sheet for cooking.
- Cook the onions: Heat the reserved bacon fat in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- Make the jam: Add the salt, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar to the skillet. Stir until combined. Mix in the cooked bacon, cranberry juice, and dried cranberries. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and turns a deep brown color. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Prepare the crostini: Preheat the oven to high broil. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Top each slice with a piece of smoked cheddar cheese and a tablespoon of cranberry bacon jam.
- Broil the crostini: Place the baking sheet in the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Creative Serving Suggestions
These Cranberry Bacon Jam Crostini are perfect as a party appetizer or a cozy snack. Serve them on a rustic wooden board for a charming presentation, or pair them with a charcuterie spread for a festive touch. For a brunch twist, add a dollop of cranberry bacon jam to scrambled eggs or avocado toast. Pro tip: Offer a small bowl of extra jam on the side for guests who want an extra flavor boost!
Storage and Reheating Tips
The cranberry bacon jam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cranberry juice if it thickens too much. For the crostini, assemble them just before serving to keep the bread crisp. If you have leftover assembled crostini, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to revive the crunch.
Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the flavors by using blue cheese or brie instead of cheddar for a tangy twist. For a sweeter version, swap dried cranberries with dried cherries or apricots. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of chili flakes to the jam for a spicy kick. Vegetarian? Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
To save time, cook the bacon in advance and store it in the fridge. You can also make the cranberry bacon jam a day ahead—it actually tastes better as the flavors meld! For the crostini, slice the baguette and toast the bread ahead of time, then assemble and broil just before serving. Quick hack: Use store-bought cranberry sauce as a base for the jam to cut down on prep time.
Equipment Guidance for Perfect Results
A rimmed baking sheet is essential for catching bacon grease, and a nonstick skillet works best for cooking the jam without sticking. For even broiling, use a wire rack on your baking sheet to elevate the crostini. If you don’t have a broiler-safe pan, a pizza stone or cast-iron skillet can work in a pinch. Don’t forget: A sharp knife makes mincing the onion a breeze!
Cranberry Bacon Jam Crostini Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon, thick sliced
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- salt and pepper, to taste
Crostini
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, smoked and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F
- Cover a half baking sheet in foil and lay bacon in a single layer in the pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
- Remove bacon from the oven and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Use another paper towel to blot the top of the bacon to absorb grease.
- Coarsely chop or crumble cooked bacon; set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the baking sheet to a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cooked for 5-10 minutes, or until it begins turning golden brown.
- Add salt, brown sugar and red wine vinegar and stir until combined. Add cooked bacon, cranberry juice, dried cranberries and season with salt and pepper, as desired.
- Stir and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the jam thickens and turns brown in color. Store jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Crostini
- Preheat oven to high broil.
- Place baguette slices in an even layer on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
- Top with sliced cheese and a tablespoon of cranberry bacon jam.
- Place baking sheet in the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm.